Originally Posted by
3ACR_Scout
Yikes, I'm no lawyer, but having just decided to try this whole pistol thing, I've been trying to read up on the rules, and their wording is certainly vague. As I read it, it doesn't actually say "no modifications" as everyone (including the aforementioned local ATF agent) always says:
"If, however, the shooter/possessor takes affirmative steps to configure the device for use as a shoulder-stock — for example, configuring the brace so as to permanently affix it to the end of a buffer tube, (thereby creating a length that has no other purpose than to facilitate its use as a stock), removing the arm-strap, or otherwise undermining its ability to be used as a brace — and then in fact shoots the firearm from the shoulder using the accessory as a shoulder stock, that person has objectively “redesigned” the firearm for the purposes of the NFA."
From my understanding, it says that you can't make any modifications that change the function of the brace, either: (1) "configure the device for use as a shoulder-stock" or (2) "otherwise undermining its ability to be used as a brace." That would imply that you could, as a simple example, replace the factory strap with one of identical design that is a different color (which I'm guessing is why SB Tactical sells replacement straps from another manufacturer on their website). Beyond that, it seems open to however they want to interpret it if they were to examine a brace that was not completely factory original.
Anyway, back on topic, the 11.5" barrel seems ideal for this setup, at least until I decide if I want to delve into 300 BLK. I'm curious why BCM hasn't offered CHF (BFH) versions of their 300 BLK barrels, but maybe they weren't sure how big the market would be for that caliber when they decided to expand into it.