The legality of unfinished firearm receivers, often referred to as “80% lowers,” is a complex and evolving area of law. These partially manufactured components require additional milling and drilling before they can function as part of a working firearm. Their unregulated status has historically been based on the premise that they are not considered firearms under existing legal definitions because they are incomplete. However, changing regulations and legal interpretations have impacted their availability and legality in various jurisdictions.
The central issue surrounding these components revolves around the balance between the right to bear arms and public safety concerns. Proponents argue that access to these components allows for the lawful exercise of Second Amendment rights and fosters individual gunsmithing skills. Conversely, critics express concern that the unregulated nature of these components could facilitate the production of untraceable firearms and potentially contribute to illegal activities. The historical context of changing regulations reflects this ongoing debate. Various legal challenges and legislative actions have sought to clarify their status and establish appropriate controls.
