What Attachments Are Illegal on an AR Pistol?
When it comes to modifying your AR pistol, it’s crucial to understand the legal boundaries. Certain attachments can make your firearm illegal, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific regulations in place. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the types of attachments that are prohibited on an AR pistol, ensuring you stay compliant with the law.
1. High-Capacity Magazines
One of the most common illegal attachments on an AR pistol is a high-capacity magazine. In many places, there are strict limits on the number of rounds a magazine can hold. For instance, in California, magazines that hold more than 10 rounds are illegal. It’s essential to check your local laws to ensure you’re not violating any regulations.
2. Fully Automatic Sights
Another attachment that is often illegal is a fully automatic sight. While some jurisdictions allow semi-automatic sights, anything that allows for full automatic fire is typically prohibited. This includes sights that have a “burst” or “full auto” setting.
3. Flash Hiders and Suppressors
Flash hiders and suppressors are also subject to strict regulations. In some states, such as California, they are illegal without a permit. Even in places where they are legal, there are specific requirements for their design and use. For example, in California, flash hiders must be a certain size and shape to be legal.
4. Bayonets and Bayonet Lugs
Bayonets and bayonet lugs are another attachment that is often illegal. While some people may believe that attaching a bayonet to an AR pistol is a matter of personal preference, it is actually illegal in many jurisdictions. This is because bayonets are considered a weapon in their own right and are subject to the same regulations as other firearms.
5. Folding Stocks
Folding stocks are another attachment that can be illegal, depending on the jurisdiction. In some places, such as California, folding stocks are prohibited on certain types of firearms. It’s important to check your local laws to ensure you’re not violating any regulations.
6. Threaded Barrels
Threaded barrels can also be illegal, depending on the jurisdiction and the type of barrel. In some places, such as California, threaded barrels are only legal if they are used with a suppressor. In other jurisdictions, threaded barrels may be illegal without any restrictions.
7. Flash Suppressors
Flash suppressors are another attachment that is often illegal. While they are designed to reduce the visibility of the muzzle flash, they are considered a form of silencer in many jurisdictions. This means that they are subject to the same regulations as other silencers.
8. Destructive Devices
Destructive devices are any attachment that is designed to cause damage or destruction. This includes items such as incendiary rounds, armor-piercing rounds, and explosive rounds. In many jurisdictions, these attachments are illegal on all firearms, including AR pistols.
9. Short Barrels
Short barrels are another attachment that can be illegal. In some jurisdictions, such as California, there are specific requirements for the length of the barrel. For example, in California, the barrel must be at least 16 inches long to be legal on an AR pistol.
10. Stabilizing Braces
Stabilizing braces are a relatively new attachment that has sparked debate in the firearms community. While they are legal in some jurisdictions, such as Texas, they are illegal in others, such as California. It’s important to check your local laws to ensure you’re not violating any regulations.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to understand the legal boundaries when modifying your AR pistol. By familiarizing yourself with the types of attachments that are illegal in your jurisdiction, you can ensure that your firearm remains compliant with the law. Always consult with a legal expert or local law enforcement if you have any questions about the legality of a specific attachment.
