Are AR Pistol Braces Legal Again?
In recent years, the legality of AR pistol braces has been a topic of controversy and confusion among gun enthusiasts and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the history of AR pistol braces, their legal status, and the recent changes that have brought them back into the spotlight.
A Brief History of AR Pistol Braces
AR pistol braces are attachments designed to fit onto the buffer tube of a pistol-caliber AR-15, essentially turning a pistol into a short-barreled rifle (SBR). The idea behind the brace was to provide a stable platform for the user to shoot, particularly for those with disabilities or who may have difficulty controlling a pistol.
The first AR pistol brace was introduced in 2012 by SB Tactical, a company founded by Alex Bosco, a Marine Corps veteran who had been injured in combat. Bosco’s goal was to create a product that would allow disabled veterans and civilians to enjoy shooting sports without having to sacrifice stability and control.
Legal Status of AR Pistol Braces
In 2015, the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) issued a ruling stating that AR pistol braces were not considered a shoulder stock, but rather an arm brace designed to provide stability and support for the shooter. This ruling was based on the fact that the brace did not attach to the receiver of the pistol, but rather to the buffer tube.
However, in 2021, the ATF issued a new ruling that reversed the 2015 decision, stating that AR pistol braces are now considered a shoulder stock, which would require registration and payment of the $200 SBR tax. This new ruling was met with widespread criticism and outrage from the gun community, with many arguing that the ATF had overstepped its authority and that the new ruling was unfair and burdensome.
Recent Changes and Updates
In June 2022, the ATF issued a new memo stating that it would be withdrawing the 2021 ruling and reinstating the 2015 ruling, which declared AR pistol braces as arm braces and not shoulder stocks. This change was made after a legal challenge was filed by a group of gun owners and manufacturers, arguing that the 2021 ruling was arbitrary and capricious.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key points to summarize the legal status of AR pistol braces:
- AR Pistol Braces are legal again: As of June 2022, the ATF has reinstated the 2015 ruling, which states that AR pistol braces are arm braces and not shoulder stocks.
- No SBR tax or registration required: Since the ATF has ruled that AR pistol braces are arm braces, there is no need to pay the $200 SBR tax or register the device.
- Some restrictions may apply: While AR pistol braces are legal again, some restrictions may still apply, such as state and local laws regulating the possession and use of firearms.
Comparison of ATF Rulings
Here is a comparison of the two ATF rulings:
| Ruling | Date | Status of AR Pistol Braces |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 Ruling | August 2015 | AR pistol braces are arm braces, not shoulder stocks. |
| 2021 Ruling | January 2021 | AR pistol braces are shoulder stocks, requiring registration and payment of the $200 SBR tax. |
| 2022 Memo | June 2022 | AR pistol braces are arm braces, reinstating the 2015 ruling. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, AR pistol braces are once again legal in the United States, following the reinstatement of the 2015 ruling by the ATF. While there may be some restrictions in place, gun owners and enthusiasts can rest assured that they can enjoy the benefits of AR pistol braces without having to pay the $200 SBR tax or register the device. As always, it is important to check local and state laws regulating the possession and use of firearms before making any purchases or modifications to your AR pistol.
