Barrel length legality questions

[SuedePflow]

I think I once knew the answer to these questions, but I've long forgotten.

Say state law says a rifles barrel length must be a minimum of 16"; Does the flash hider count as barrel length? As in, can a guy run a 14.5" barrel and a 1.5+" FH/brake and legally meet the minimum? If so, does it need to be welded/pinned to be legal?

 

[MtnCreek]

If so, does it need to be welded/pinned to be legal?

Per fed law, it must be permanently attached to count toward required length. Also, make sure you're checking length the same way ATF would, from the bolt face.

 

[SuedePflow]

That answers that. Thanks!

 

[chasu]

barrel length

Yep, close the bolt, stick the cleaning rod or wood dowel down the barrel until it stops, (Assuming you have a coated one) make a mark at the muzzle, and measure. If the muzzle break is removable, the length doesn't count towards the legal length.

 

[SuedePflow]

Can a suppressor count toward barrel length if it is permanently attached to the barrel?

 

[LebbenB]

As I understand the federal regulation, yes - a permanently mounted suppressor counts toward barrel length (Check out the hopefully forthcoming Sig MPX. It has a large, long "muzzle device" designed to accept a suppressor outside it, also bringing the "barrel" to a legal 16". ) State and local laws may vary though.