SIG tipped us and a whole bunch of other blogs off regarding a determination letter from ATF regarding firing their “pistol” as a rifle, thanks to the SIG “Stabilization Brace”.
Here’s the text:
Dear Sgt. Bradley:
This is in response to your communication dated January 24, 2014, to the Bureau of Alcohol, tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Your e-mail was forwarded to the ATF Firearms technology Branch (FTB), Martinsburg, West Virginia, for reply. In your note, you ask about firing an AR-15 type pistol from the shoulder; specifically, if doing so would cause the pistol to be reclassified as a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR).
For the following reasons, we have determined that firing a pistol from the shoulder would not cause the pistol to be reclassified as an SBR:
FTB classifies weapons based on their physical design characteristics. While the usage/functionality of the weapon does influence the intended design, it is not the sole criteria for determining the classification of a weapon. Generally speaking, we do not classify weapons based on how an individual uses a weapon.
FTB has previously determined (see FTB #99146) that the firing of a weapon from a particular position, such as placing the receiver extention of an AR-15 type pistol on the user’s shoulder, does not change the classification of a weapon. Further, certain firearm accessories such as the SIG stability brace have not been classified by the FTB as shoulder stocks and, therefore, using the brace improperly does not constitute a design change. Using an accessory improperly would not change the classification of a weapon under Federal law. However, the FTB cannot recommend using a weapon (or weapon accessory) in a manner not intended by the manufacturer.
We thank you for your inquiry and trust the foregoing has been responsive.
Omg, what a messed up system. Why don’t we cut the bullshit and just do away with the NFA?
Cuz the NRA WANTS THE NFA restrictions so they can endlessly “lobby” against it. It’s the same reason the NRA has been right there ushering in gun control for the last century…,.