Is it Legal to Buy AR 15 Parts Online in the US?

In AR 15 customization and building, there's a plethora of information and regulations to sift through. This blog aims to clarify, though it shouldn't be misconstrued as legal advice. Generally, most AR 15 components in the United States can be purchased, traded, or sold without legal barriers. However, specific items like ammunition, silencers, and, notably, the lower receivers fall under tighter scrutiny. Per the guidelines set forth by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE), the serialized lower receiver necessitates a Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer during its acquisition. This unique serialization is attributed to a finished lower by its manufacturer before it's offered for sale. As of the writing of this article, apart from these noted exceptions, all standard AR 15 parts are legally available for purchase or exchange in the U.S.

Can You Buy Parts to Build an AR 15?

Navigating the intricacies of AR 15 assembly often leads to one pressing question: Can you buy all the necessary parts to construct an AR 15? The answer is a resounding yes, with a noteworthy caveat. While you can procure almost every component from various sources, one distinct exception is the Lower Receiver. As mentioned, this part requires purchase through a licensed FFL Dealer due to its serialization nature. On the brighter side, the digital age has made it convenient for firearm enthusiasts. Virtually all components vital to assembling or customizing your AR 15 can be lawfully bought online, conveniently shipping them straight to your doorstep. Dive into this world confidently, armed with the knowledge of what's permissible and what requires more attention.

Is it Illegal to Own Gun Parts?

When diving into the complex landscape of firearms and their components, one might face the question: Is owning gun parts illegal? As layered as the firearms' mechanics, this question has no one-size-fits-all answer. Due to various reasons tied to safety and regulation, some features have restrictions. For instance, the ownership of silencers is a contentious issue, with many states in the U.S. prohibiting their possession outright.

But the waters run deeper. Beyond silencers, there's a web of specific laws, criteria, and regulations that determine the legality of other firearm components. This mosaic of rules often varies by jurisdiction, making it essential for gun enthusiasts and owners to be well-informed about their specific state or country's guidelines.

However, in most cases, a general principle holds: owning individual, unassembled gun parts in isolation is not against the law. The part's nature and intended use can sometimes push it into a gray or explicitly illegal zone. For instance, if a component is classified as illegal in a particular jurisdiction, its status remains the same, irrespective of whether it's part of an assembled firearm or in a standalone state. Knowledge and careful research are crucial to navigating this intricate realm, ensuring enthusiasts remain on the right side of the law.

Is it Legal to Make Your Own AR 15?

The allure of building a custom firearm, particularly the iconic AR-15, has gained significant traction among gun enthusiasts. The experience of tailoring a weapon to personal specifications is rewarding, and many are eager to dive into this endeavor. But a prevailing question remains: Is it legal to make your own AR 15?

For lawful citizens, the answer, with some conditions, is yes. One can legally assemble their AR 15, provided they adhere to established federal and state regulations. At the heart of this legal landscape is the emphasis on the AR 15 Lower Receiver. This component is pivotal as it is the serialized and regulated portion of the firearm. Acquiring a registered AR 15 Lower Receiver from a licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) is paramount for those interested in pursuing this hobby.

However, it's worth noting the evolving nature of gun regulations. As states become increasingly cautious, there's heightened scrutiny against possessing non-serialized weapons. This shift means that what might be permissible today could face restrictions tomorrow. Thus, before assembling an AR 15, staying updated with local laws and regulations is crucial. While crafting a custom AR 15 is a fascinating endeavor, it is always best approached with thorough research and an emphasis on compliance.

What Part of AR 15 is Regulated?

When navigating the complex maze of firearm regulations, particularly regarding the AR-15, understanding which parts are under scrutiny is crucial. Central to this conversation is the Lower Receiver. Often regarded as the 'heart' of the AR-15, the Lower Receiver is the primary regulated component, mainly because it's serialized and viewed as the firearm itself in legal terms.

However, the regulatory landscape continues beyond there. Various other elements of the AR 15 come under specific guidelines, ensuring safety and legal compliance. Factors such as barrel length, the type and positioning of grips, muzzle fixtures, foregrips, and even magazine capacity play pivotal roles in how the firearm is classified and regulated.

These regulations can vary widely based on federal, regional, and local directives. For instance, what might be a permissible component or accessory in one jurisdiction could be restricted or entirely prohibited in another. A case in point is the foregrip. An ill-informed placement or choice of a foregrip can dramatically alter the legal classification of an AR-15 pistol. Such an oversight might inadvertently reclassify the firearm as an AOW, an abbreviation for "all other weapons," potentially rendering it illegal under specific statutes.

While the allure of customizing or building an AR 15 is undeniable, enthusiasts must tread this path deeply, aware of the regulations and understanding that every component, no matter how minor, might carry legal implications.

Do I Need an FFL to Buy AR 15 Parts?

The world of firearm ownership and customization is rife with regulations, and understanding these intricacies is vital for anyone looking to dive into AR 15s. A recurrent question that surfaces is: Do I need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) to buy AR 15 parts?

Most AR 15 components can be purchased without the need for an FFL. This means that parts like the stock, handguard, barrel, and most internal elements can be bought, sold, and shipped relatively quickly, often mirroring the purchase process of regular online shopping.

However, the Lower Receiver is a significant exception to this general rule. The Lower Receiver of an AR-15 is not just another component; it's the very heart of the rifle and the primary serialized part. In legal terms, it's often considered the actual "firearm," even when it's stripped and lacks all the additional components that make up a complete gun. Consequently, when purchasing a Lower Receiver, an FFL is required. The Lower Receiver must be transferred through a licensed dealer, with all the requisite background checks and paperwork accompanying any firearm purchase.

In essence, while the vast majority of AR 15 components can be acquired without any special licensing, it's crucial to recognize the unique status of the Lower Receiver. It's always advisable to stay updated with federal, state, and local laws to ensure a smooth and legal transaction when delving into AR 15 customization.

Can I sell an AR Lower?

Entering the world of firearms, especially when considering selling components, demands a meticulous understanding of the rules and regulations. A frequent inquiry is: Can I sell an AR Lower Receiver?

In essence, the answer is affirmative but with distinct conditions. The Lower Receiver, recognized as the serialized and central part of an AR 15, is subject to particular legal requirements. A licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer must facilitate any sale involving this component. This ensures that the transaction remains compliant with federal guidelines.

For individuals looking to part with their AR Lower, be prepared for the procedural nuances. The FFL dealer will oversee the buyer's background check and state-mandated waiting periods. In the meantime, you might be asked to ship or deliver the Lower Receiver to the dealer, ensuring the process remains seamless.

Moreover, without holding an FFL, you're prohibited from selling a registered or unregistered AR 15 Lower Receiver directly to another party. Any attempt to sidestep the involvement of an FFL can lead to significant legal repercussions.

While selling an AR Lower Receiver is possible, it's enveloped in specific regulatory steps. Strict adherence to these steps ensures a legal and smooth transaction for both parties.

Are You Looking for AR 15 Parts?

If you want to shop for AR 15 parts online, look no further than Black Rifle Depot. We carry all the parts and accessories you need to customize your AR 15 and ship them to you. Our expanding selection of in-stock items, live inventory, and five-star service make shopping for AR 15 parts fun, and our lifetime warranty makes it risk-free.