Okay, I posted a couple of ATF letters and a guy sent me a message asking if I had the letter specifying that an AR pistol can be built from an AR receiver that was transferred as a receiver and never assembled as a rifle. It just so happens I did save that one back when I built a couple of AR pistols a few years back. I like to have the letters of anything someone may ask about and keep them in my case with the weapon when I take it shooting. At any rate, here is the ATF letter in case anyone else needs it:
Please note that I am not a lawyer and this should not be construed as legal advice.
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A few folks have asked how to remove the factory installed thread protector from their M92 PAP pistols. Zastava does actually thread the pistols and it’s a 26mm diameter x 1.5mm pitch left hand thread (M27x1.5LH is the short cut way to write it) under that cover. These things were installed for importation, ruin the look of the pistol and, fortunately, are very easy to remove if you take your time.
Now I used a Dremel with a cut off wheel. You could just as easily use a hand file. For me, I used the thread cover to protect the threads and did not worry if it got scratched. Cut a little and try to turn the thread cover. It will turn clockwise to be removed once the weld is broken. Note, if you decide to use a Dremel and are new to them, practice with your cut off wheel on some scrap metal before doing your pistol. They can hop around unless you know how to hold and maneuver them.
I prefer cordless Dremels with removable batteries so I can swap them at any time but any rotary tool will work. You’ll need at least an abrasive cutting disc to cut through the small spot weld.I couldn’t take the photo and cut but you go slow with the cutting disc and only remove enough weld for the thread protector to freely turn.Not a very clear photo but you can see the remaining weld on the thread protector.Here’s the remaining weld on the front block. Note, don’t toss your thread protector as you can use it to safeguard your threads as you grind down the remaining weld.
Next, I put the thread protector back on and used a stone wheel in the Dremel to clean up the remains of the weld on the gas block. Again, if you are new, practice first. The stone wheel may look simple but they can make a mess real fast if you lose control. I’ve been using Dremels since 1985 – trust me when I say you should practice first. Also, I like Dremels and have used them for years. They have tons of corded and cordless models plus there are other rotary tools on the market if you expect to have very limited use and want to save money.
I used a small stone and light pressure to remove the rest of the weld. Putting the thread protector back on will keep you from damaging the threads. Grinding wheels like to hop around if you aren’t very careful.While the steel is shiny and clean, use your favorite cold blue to stain the steel. I like Brownell’s Oxpho-Blue liquid.Burnish it with steel wool, repeat and apply oil.Done. By the way, you can get the M92 muzzle break detent assembly from CNC Warrior – they actually make them.Here it is again with better lighting,
I hope this helps you out!
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In this ATF letter, the author asked the ATF’s opinion on a number of great AR pistol related questions. I am paraphrasing a few points I found important to help folks doing full text searches for opinions:
1) An AR lower receiver is neither pistol nor rifle until it is built the first time. If you want to make a pistol, a lower receiver must *never* have been built in a rifle configuration.
2) AR pistols do not have a barrel length restriction.
3) AR handguards can be used on an AR pistol
4) An AR rifle and pistol can be in the same household — note, and this is a personal comment, what got a guy in trouble years ago was that he had only an AR rifle and a pistol upper with no lower to mount it on. I don’t remember all of the details but the main thing here is that you never want it to look like the only reason you have a pistol/SBR upper is to put in on your AR that is legally classified as a rifle.
5)Â Magpul angled fore grips (AFGs) are permissible on the bottom accessory/picatinny rail.
I recommend people print and keep copies of letters just in case they need to show someone that some aspect of a weapon was “approved” by the ATF at some point. Just bear in mind that ATF letters are not absolutes but it helps to have them handy if asked. A state or local government may have their own more restrictive regulations as well so this may not mean AFGs are legal for everyone everywhere.
Legal Disclaimer: I am not an attorney and am not giving legal advice. I am just passing this information along and it is up to you to determine what you can/can’t do.
This is Izzy’s wild SBR based on a C39 Micro with our Orca handguard:
Here are the details from Izzy:
I put a 7 slot magpul one piece rail section, drilled and tapped on the actual [handguard and the] rail is very strong I may add. The micro was something in my head for awhile so when I saw this 6.5 in with a billet receiver I was sold. Not too much was added to make it what it is. My own design charging handle. VZ 58 side folding stock drilled and pinned then use para cord for the extension NRM Defense did the cerakote in Tungsten with all the controls in black SLR muzzle brake Red star adjustable trigger assembly Magpul grip and mags with a Bravo Company vertical fore grip
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