Barrel Length Questions

[USMC1341]

Hello first off since this is my first post. I'm pretty new to m4 type carbines. My former service rifle was a standard a2 and I've been playing with M1s since then. I have a 6920 on lay-a-way and it will be the first of it's configuration that I will have owned.
Read articles and posts from magazines I've bought and forums across the web I have noticed people with barrels less than 16". I'm pretty sure they would need proper papers just to posses these short barrel varieties, but I wonder since I sure see what seems like a lot of people doing it.
Then also I see people adding a fixed non removable (non removable without work) device to lengthen a short barrel to 16". I got to ask What is the point?

Basically what is the skinny on barrels and there length?

[Dave L.]

Hey man, check out the NFA forum (below). You will get tons of info there. A Moderator may even move your post there.

Welcome to the site, and Semper Fi.

Dave

P.S. The 6920 is a great pick for a first AR.

[DRich]

Originally Posted by USMC1341

I'm pretty sure they would need proper papers just to posses these short barrel varieties, but I wonder since I sure see what seems like a lot of people doing it.

Yes, you need to fill out some extra paperwork and pay a $200 tax to BATFE to legally possess a Short Barrel Rifle (barrel length <16"). It's a fairly simple process and many people do it everyday. Some states/municipalities do not allow them, so check your local laws first. As mentioned, there is a ton of info in the NFA forum below.

Then also I see people adding a fixed non removable (non removable without work) device to lengthen a short barrel to 16". I got to ask What is the point?

A 16" barrel with a flash suppressor is over 17" long. If you cut the barrel down and add a permanently fixed flash suppressor, you can get the total barrel length down to ~16.1", which make the rifle a bit easier to handle in tight quarters and doesn't require any gov't paperwork or extra taxes. It makes a bigger difference than many people think.

[USMC1341]

Originally Posted by DRich

Yes, you need to fill out some extra paperwork and pay a $200 tax to BATFE to legally possess a Short Barrel Rifle (barrel length <16"). It's a fairly simple process and many people do it everyday. Some states/municipalities do not allow them, so check your local laws first. As mentioned, there is a ton of info in the NFA forum below.

So no catch? Just one time fee and form. ATF not busting down your door telling you how and were to store it? Transport it to the range with out hassle? I'll study into it more when I have time. Thanks

[DRich]

Originally Posted by USMC1341

So no catch? Just one time fee and form. ATF not busting down your door telling you how and were to store it? Transport it to the range with out hassle? I'll study into it more when I have time. Thanks

No catch...no storage requirements or any other nonsense. Just keep a copy of your paperwork/tax stamp with your rifle and you shouldn't have any legal issues transporting it. Of course, you could always run into someone who doesn't know the law, but that can happen with non-NFA firearms as well so I consider it a moot point.

The only obstacle can be getting your local law enforcement official to sign off on your application, but there are simple remedies for that situation as well. You'll find all that info below.