Most of you who have purchased firearms before are probably familiar with the process of visiting an FFL, typically in the form of a gun shop, checking out models that are interesting to you, handling them, and asking the shop owner questions. Maybe you even tried out a similar (or the same model) at a range, before returning to the shop to complete the purchase.
Then, depending on where you live, you’ll fill out a 4473 and the FFL will conduct a NICS check. Depending on where you live, you may be required to meet other requirements, such as the acquisition of purchase permits, filling out a COE (Certificate of Eligibility), or complying with waiting periods.
Otherwise, once you’ve paid the fees, waiting for the background check to clear, and satisfied all other legal requirements, you can take your new firearm home.
That is the standard procedure for firearms purchases for more citizens in the United States – but there is an alternative for some, according to the ATF.
What about a Glock Lower Parts Kit?
According to the Burea of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (AKA, the ATF), a parts kit that contains an unfinished receiver, also known as an 80% lower or a receiver blank, is not legally a firearm, as the receiver in this state cannot be used to create an operational firearm.
The ATF has also specified that no licenses are required to complete a firearm at home using a parts kit, provided the firearm is for personal use and the individual in question is not a prohibited person. State and local laws vary, but at the federal level, it is legal to create a firearm in this method.
For example, a Glock lower parts kit, which is likely to contain the slide lock (and spring and lever), trigger pin and trigger housing pin, trigger, housing and trigger bar, mag catch, and spring, can be paired with the matching Glock polymer 80 and remaining upper parts to complete the build. At the federal level, you are not required to serialize or register the firearm, once complete.
It is important to note that while you do not need to go through an FFL to complete a firearm in this manner, you must be assured that you have the proper parts and tools to complete the build. In addition to a matching, compatible frame and lower parts kit, you will need:
- A jig to complete the frame (or receiver, depending on the firearm)
- A vise
- A drill press and an assortment of bits (size dependent on the firearm)
- A hammer
- A level
- Punches
- Sandpaper of various grits
- A rotary tool with a variety of bits for shaping, smoothing, and finishing the receiver or frame.
You will also need to consult a step-by-step guide for how to complete the frame or receiver and assemble the remaining parts – if you are using a Glock lower parts kit, for example, you will also need to purchase a matching barrel, slide, and any other parts that do not come with the lower kit and are required to complete the firearm.
Legal Considerations
It is important to note that while it is legal at the federal level to complete a firearm using a receiver blank, a jig, and a parts kit, it is not legal in all jurisdictions. For example, New Jersey and Connecticut expressly forbid the sale or possession of receiver blanks. Some other states, like California, require receiver blanks to be serialized before being completed.
Nothing in this post may be construed as legal counsel. You MUST receive your own legal counsel in order to ensure that your intended project is legal.
Contact MCS Gearup
If you’ve determined that you can legally proceed with the project, visit MCS Gearup online at MCSGearup.com. In addition to a wide range of lower parts kits and upgrade kits for a variety of popular firearms, they also carry a wide range of shooting accessories, all at great prices.
Visit their website at MCSGearup.com or get in touch with their customer service team at 239-848-6757 or at sales@mcsgearup.com to learn more.
