Understanding 80% Lower Receivers

If you’re unfamiliar, or just stumbled across our site, let’s get you informed – an 80% lower receiver is a partially manufactured firearm component that requires additional machining to become a functional firearm. Historically, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) did not classify these unfinished receivers as firearms, allowing individuals to purchase and complete them without federal regulation. However, a lot has changed – and is changing – so stay informed!

Regulatory Changes and Legal Challenges

In 2022, the ATF implemented a rule reclassifying 80% receivers and kits as firearms, subjecting them to the Gun Control Act’s regulations. This change mandated serialization, licensing, and background checks for these items.

This rule faced legal challenges, leading to a federal court in Texas invalidating it in 2023, stating that the ATF exceeded its authority. However, in August 2023, the Supreme Court temporarily reinstated the rule pending further appeals.

Current Status and Implications

As of February 2025, the legality of 80% lower receivers remains in flux. The Supreme Court heard arguments in October 2024 regarding the ATF’s authority to regulate these components, but a final decision is still pending.

For enthusiasts in Ohio, 80% lower receivers were previously legal to purchase and complete without serialization, provided they were not sold with a jig.However, due to ongoing legal developments, it’s crucial to stay informed about current federal and state regulations before purchasing or manufacturing an 80% lower receiver.

How Do You Stay Informed?

Our suggestion is a simple Google alert – create an alert with key words like “80% lower receiver,” “firearm regulation,” etc. Then include your state. This will send any news and information directly to your inbox either daily or weekly and should keep you informed on any changes. It’s an easy way to stay up-to-date!

Conclusion

Check your news! Since the status is constantly in flux, its hard to tell where your state stands on the issue. It is important to stay up-to-date. The evolving legal status of 80% lower receivers underscores the importance of staying updated on firearm laws. As court decisions and regulations continue to develop, individuals interested in these components should consult legal experts or authoritative sources to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.