How to Legally SBR a Rifle Lower: A Step-by-Step Guide

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

How to SBR a Rifle Lower

The process of Short-barreled Rifle (SBR) is a relatively simple one, but it does require some attention to detail and the proper tools. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of SBR a rifle lower, from choosing the right lower receiver to completing the paperwork and sending it to the ATF.

We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to help you along the way, and answer any questions you may have about the process. So if you’re thinking about building your own SBR, read on!

Step Instructions Tools
1 Purchase a lower receiver that is already registered as a pistol. – Lower receiver
2 Install a pistol-length barrel and a vertical foregrip. – Pistol-length barrel – Vertical foregrip
3 File a Form 1 with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). – Form 1 – ATF Fingerprint Card
4 Pay the $200 tax stamp. – $200
5 Once your Form 1 is approved, you can legally register your rifle as an SBR.

A rifle with a barrel shorter than 16 inches is considered a Short-barreled rifle (SBR) by the National Firearms Act (NFA). Owning an SBR requires additional paperwork and a tax stamp from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

This guide will walk you through the steps of how to SBR a rifle lower. We’ll cover the federal and state law requirements, the process of choosing the right lower receiver, filing a Form 1 application, getting your tax stamp, and final assembly.

Requirements

What is an SBR?

An SBR is a rifle with a barrel shorter than 16 inches. The overall length of the rifle, including the stock, must also be less than 26 inches.

SBRs are regulated under the NFA because they are considered to be more concealable and therefore more dangerous than a standard rifle.

Federal law requirements

In order to legally own an SBR, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien
  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Not have been convicted of a felony or any other crime punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than one year
  • Not be a fugitive from justice
  • Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance
  • Not be a member of any organization that advocates the overthrow of the U.S. government by force or violence

State law requirements

In addition to the federal law requirements, you may also need to comply with state law requirements in order to own an SBR.

Some states have no restrictions on SBRs, while others have more stringent requirements.

Be sure to check the laws in your state before you start the process of SBRing a rifle lower.

Process

Choosing the right lower receiver

The first step in the process of SBRing a rifle lower is choosing the right lower receiver.

The lower receiver is the part of the rifle that contains the fire control group, so it is the part that will be serialized and registered as an SBR.

When choosing a lower receiver, you will need to make sure that it is compatible with the rest of your build.

You will also need to make sure that the lower receiver is not already serialized as a rifle.

You can check the serial number of a lower receiver by looking for a marking that begins with the letters “SBR” or “AOW”.

If the lower receiver is already serialized as a rifle, you will not be able to SBR it.

Form 1 application

The next step is to file a Form 1 application with the ATF.

The Form 1 application is a request to manufacture a firearm.

You can find the Form 1 application on the ATF website.

The Form 1 application requires you to provide the following information:

  • Your name and address
  • Your Social Security number
  • Your date of birth
  • Your occupation
  • Your citizenship status
  • The make, model, and serial number of the lower receiver
  • The intended use for the SBR

You will also need to submit two passport-style photographs of yourself.

Once you have completed the Form 1 application, you will need to submit it to the ATF along with a $200 tax stamp.

The ATF will review your application and issue a tax stamp if it is approved.

The processing time for Form 1 applications can vary, but it typically takes around 90 days.

Tax stamp

Once you have received your tax stamp, you can legally SBR your rifle lower.

To do this, you will need to have the lower receiver engraved with the following information:

  • Your name
  • Your address
  • The date of the tax stamp
  • The serial number of the lower receiver

The engraving can be done by a qualified gunsmith.

Final assembly

Once the lower receiver has been engraved, you can complete the final assembly of your SBR.

You will need to install a barrel that is less than 16 inches long and a stock that does not permanently attach to the receiver.

You will also need to install a pistol grip and a forward grip.

Once the final assembly is complete, your SBR is ready to be used.

SBRs are a great way to customize your rifle and make it more compact and maneuverable.

The process of SBRing a rifle lower is relatively straightforward, but it does require some paperwork and a wait time for the tax stamp.

If you are interested in SBRing a rifle lower, be sure

Tools and Materials

The following tools and materials are required to SBR a rifle lower:

  • Lower receiver
  • The lower receiver is the part of the rifle that houses the trigger, hammer, and other components. It is also the part that is serialized and registered with the ATF.
  • Barrel
  • The barrel is the part of the rifle that propels the bullet. It must be a minimum of 16 inches long in order to be considered a rifle.
  • Stock
  • The stock is the part of the rifle that the shooter holds against their shoulder. It must be a minimum of 13.5 inches long in order to be considered a pistol.
  • Buffer tube
  • The buffer tube is a hollow tube that houses the buffer and spring. It is attached to the rear of the lower receiver.
  • Buffer spring
  • The buffer spring is a spring that helps to dampen the recoil of the rifle. It is located inside the buffer tube.
  • Buffer
  • The buffer is a small weight that helps to dampen the recoil of the rifle. It is located inside the buffer tube.
  • Gas block
  • The gas block is a small block that redirects gas from the barrel to the gas tube. It is located near the front of the barrel.
  • Gas tube
  • The gas tube is a small tube that carries gas from the gas block to the bolt carrier group. It is located under the barrel.
  • Handguard
  • The handguard is a rail-mounted accessory that protects the shooter’s hand from the heat of the barrel. It is attached to the front of the barrel.
  • BCG
  • The BCG (bolt carrier group) is a critical component of the rifle that loads, fires, and ejects cartridges. It is located inside the upper receiver.
  • Charging handle
  • The charging handle is a lever that is used to cock the rifle. It is located on the right side of the upper receiver.
  • LPK
  • The LPK (lower parts kit) is a collection of small parts that are required to assemble the lower receiver. It includes the trigger, hammer, disconnector, safety selector, magazine catch, and other small parts.
  • Optics
  • Optics such as scopes, red dots, and holographic sights can be mounted to the rifle for improved accuracy.
  • Muzzle device
  • A muzzle device such as a flash hider, compensator, or suppressor can be added to the end of the barrel to reduce recoil and muzzle flash.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you SBR a rifle lower:

  • Avoid common mistakes. One of the most common mistakes that people make when SBRing a rifle lower is not following the proper procedures. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow all of the steps.
  • Get the most out of your SBR. Once you have SBRed your rifle lower, you can take advantage of its shorter barrel length and lighter weight. This makes it a great choice for hunting, home defense, or other applications where a compact and maneuverable rifle is desired.
  • Troubleshooting problems. If you run into any problems while SBRing your rifle lower, don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are many resources available online and in person that can help you troubleshoot and resolve any issues.

SBRing a rifle lower is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the proper procedures in order to avoid any problems. By following the tips and tricks in this guide, you can SBR your rifle lower and enjoy all of the benefits that come with owning a short-barreled rifle.

Q: What is an SBR?

An SBR, or short-barreled rifle, is a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches. SBRs are regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA) and require a tax stamp from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in order to be legally possessed.

Q: What are the requirements for building an SBR?

In order to build an SBR, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
  • You must be 18 years of age or older.
  • You must have a valid Form 1, Application to Make and Register a Firearm, approved by the ATF.
  • You must build the SBR from a registered lower receiver.
  • You must comply with all applicable state and local laws.

Q: What are the steps involved in building an SBR?

The steps involved in building an SBR are as follows:

1. Obtain a Form 1, Application to Make and Register a Firearm. You can download a Form 1 from the ATF website.
2. Complete the Form 1. Be sure to include all of the required information, including your name, address, and fingerprints.
3. Pay the $200 tax stamp fee. You can pay the tax stamp fee by check or money order.
4. Send the Form 1 and tax stamp fee to the ATF. The ATF will review your Form 1 and tax stamp fee. If they approve your application, they will send you a Form 4, Certificate of Registration.
5. Build the SBR. You can build the SBR from a registered lower receiver. Be sure to follow all applicable state and local laws.
6. Engrave the serial number on the SBR. You must engrave the serial number on the SBR in a conspicuous location.
7. Register the SBR with the ATF. You must register the SBR with the ATF by submitting a Form 5320.4, Report of Sale or Transfer of Firearm.

Q: What are the benefits of owning an SBR?

There are a few benefits to owning an SBR, including:

  • SBRs are more maneuverable than full-length rifles, making them ideal for use in close-quarters situations.
  • SBRs can be fired with one hand, making them easier to use for people with disabilities.
  • SBRs are often lighter than full-length rifles, making them easier to carry for extended periods of time.

Q: What are the risks of owning an SBR?

There are a few risks associated with owning an SBR, including:

  • SBRs are more dangerous than full-length rifles, as they are easier to conceal and control.
  • SBRs are more likely to be used in crimes, as they are easier to conceal and transport.
  • SBRs are more expensive than full-length rifles, as they require a tax stamp and are subject to additional regulations.

Q: What is the best way to learn more about SBRs?

The best way to learn more about SBRs is to do your research. There are a number of resources available online and in libraries that can help you understand the laws and regulations governing SBRs. You can also talk to a qualified firearms instructor or dealer for more information.

building an SBR lower is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the proper steps and procedures to ensure that the firearm is legal and safe to use. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can build your own SBR lower and enjoy the benefits of owning a shorter, more maneuverable rifle.

Here are some key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you are familiar with the laws and regulations governing SBRs in your state.
  • You will need a Form 1 from the ATF to make an SBR.
  • The lower receiver is the only part of a rifle that is considered the firearm, so you will need to start with a stripped lower receiver.
  • You will need to install a stock that is approved for use on an SBR.
  • You will need to serialize the lower receiver.
  • Once you have completed the build, you will need to submit the Form 1 to the ATF and wait for approval.

By following these steps, you can build your own SBR lower and enjoy the benefits of owning a shorter, more maneuverable rifle.

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