ATF just dropped this for comment.
https://www.atf.gov/rules-and-regulations/definition-frame-or-receiver/summary
https://www.atf.gov/rules-and-regulations/definition-frame-or-receiver/summary
On May 7, 2021, the Attorney General signed ATF proposed rule 2021R-05, Definition of “Frame or Receiver” and Identification of Firearms. The goal of the proposed rule is to ensure the proper marking, record keeping, and traceability of all firearms manufactured, imported, acquired and disposed by federal firearms licensees.
Please note that this is the text of the proposed rule as signed by the Attorney General, but the official version of the proposed rule will be as it is published in the Federal Register.
https://www.atf.gov/file/154586/download
Marking, Registration, and Transfer Requirements for Silencers
Under the proposed rule, a “frame or receiver” of a firearm muffler or silencer device is defined as a housing or holding structure for one or more essential internal components of the device, including, but not limited to, baffles, baffling material, or expansion chamber.
Manufacturers and makers of complete muffler or silencer devices need only mark each part (or specific part(s) previously determined by ATF) of the device defined as a “frame or receiver” under this rule. However, individual muffler or silencer parts must be marked if they are disposed of separately from a complete device unless transferred by qualified manufacturers to other qualified licensees for the manufacture or repair of complete devices.
A qualified manufacturer may:
Persons may temporarily convey a lawfully possessed NFA firearm, including a silencer, to a qualified manufacturer or dealer for the sole purpose of repair, identification, evaluation, research, testing, or calibration, and return to the same lawful possessor without additional identification or registration.
- Transfer a silencer part to another qualified manufacturer without immediately identifying or registering such part provided that, upon receipt, it is actively used to manufacture a complete muffler or silencer device.
- Transfer a replacement silencer part other than a frame or receiver to a qualified manufacturer or dealer without identifying or registering such part provided that, upon receipt, it is actively used to repair a complete muffler or silencer device that was previously identified and registered in accordance with this part.
Submit a Comment
ATF is receiving comments on the proposed rule for 90 days from the date the proposed rule is posted in the Federal Register.
You may submit comments by mail, fax or the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov.