ATF gone wild! (Custom gunsmiths beware!)

[strambo]

Great update. It's good to hear this is isolated and not a widespread ATF witch hunt. Makes sense to work with them in order to ensure more common sense in the wording. Now, I'm gonna go "manufacture" my issue M9 pistol by cleaning it.

 

[publius]

For those who don't speak lawyer

Or who just want the Reader's Digest version...

As Mr. Crow’s case is active at this time, I am unable to comment on its specifics. I will note that I expect a very favorable outcome for Mr. Crow and other similarly-situated gunsmiths.

We're doing fine.

It appears, however, that any improper actions on behalf of ATF have been isolated, and likely the actions of misinformed or mistaken agents. Broadcasting such incidents may be counterproductive, as several of our solutions are being formulated now with the full cooperation of ATF.

Couple of jackasses. Be cool.

In finding a solution to the problem of gunsmiths, manufacturers, and non-licensees lacking clear guidance from the ATF as to what, exactly, constitutes “manufacture,” “gunsmithing,” “dealer,” etc., we have examined many options. At present, the most favorable to all parties is regulatory addition to, or amendment of, 18 USC 921(11)(B), which defines those terms, but does so inadequately for guidance purposes. Such a change would not seek to redefine any of those terms, but rather define them with greater specificity. That is to say, we’re not seeking to change the law, we just want it clarified so that everyone is on the same page and people can go about their business without wondering whether or not they’re in compliance with federal law.

This legislative solution is not without flaw, however. Most notably, such legislative action could be (legitimately) construed as altering or affecting the way FAET is collected. That means tax money. Tax money means House Ways and Means Committee hearings. Things could get ugly. This is not to say that the legislative action is not a good idea, but it is more complicated than it looks. The right bill sponsor at the right time, and with minimal fanfare, could accomplish our collective goals, but drafting, timing, and support are crucial issues. This is another example of a situation that is very important, but where increased public awareness and advertising can be counterproductive.

We want some new rules, but making them is like making a new sausage. Not pretty.

 

[bogie]

I suspect that F-Troop was looking at Larry as being a test case... He's relatively small-time, but at the same time, he does a fair amount of enhancement.

 

[Diamondback6]

I'd suspect the BATFinks are probably trying to use Mr. Crow and Mr. Celata over at KT Ordnance as live-fire test-cases before going after their respective industry sectors in general.

Jingolaw, have y'all considered investigating the Celata/KT case?

 

[Jingolaw]

Diamondback6:

We are well-apprised of the KT Ordnance situation, though I'm afraid I can't comment further.

Thanky you all for your continued support.

Eric Swartz
Office of Legislative Counsel
NRA - ILA