SHORT-BARRELED RIFLES (SBR): LAWS, REQUIREMENTS & OWNERSHIP

Short-barreled rifle (SBR) laws can be confusing because federal NFA requirements and state laws both apply.

Owning a short-barreled rifle (SBR) is legal under federal law for people who meet the applicable requirements. No special federal license is required simply to own an SBR.

However, SBRs are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA). The same law that governs silencers and machine guns.

While many states allow SBR ownership, please check your local and state laws to confirm legality before purchasing.

What Is an SBR?

Under federal law, a short-barreled rifle generally includes a rifle with a barrel or barrels less than 16 inches in length, or a weapon made from a rifle that, as modified, has an overall length of less than 26 inches.

These firearms are regulated under the NFA (National Firearms Act), which means additional steps are required to legally own or build one—but the process is straightforward, and we’re here to help.

1. Buy an SBR From Our Webstore

Michigan Residents:
Simply select your SBR online or visit us in-store.
We help you complete Form 4 (ATF Form 5320.4).
Once approved, pick up your SBR at our store and complete Form 4473, just like purchasing any other firearm.

Out-of-State Buyers (where legal):
Order your SBR from our webstore.
We ship it to your local Class III/NFA dealer.
Your dealer helps you submit Form 4 to the ATF.
Once approved, pick it up from your local dealer.

2. Transfer in an SBR You Bought Elsewhere (Michigan Only)

If you find the SBR you want elsewhere online, you can:

Purchase it and have it shipped to us.
Once received, we assist you in submitting Form 4.
After ATF approval, pick it up at our store like any other firearm.

3. Build Your Own SBR (Form 1)

Want to build your own SBR from parts?

Purchase the lower receiver and other parts from us.
Submit Form 1 (ATF Form 5320.1).
Once approved:
You can legally assemble the SBR.
You must engrave the receiver with the maker’s name, city, and state—your name or your trust/corporation’s name if applicable.
The federal making tax for an SBR made by an individual on Form 1 is currently $0.

Building an SBR is a more technical route, but many enthusiasts choose this path for customization.

SBR Ownership Requirements & Rules

An SBR made by a nonlicensee must be marked with the required maker's information.

Removing an SBR From NFA Registration: If a registered SBR is permanently reconfigured so that it no longer meets the federal definition of an SBR, it may no longer be subject to the NFA based on its new configuration. ATF recommends notifying the NFA Division so the NFRTR record can be updated. Because the proper procedure can depend on the specific firearm and circumstances, owners should confirm the process with ATF before relying on the firearm's removal from the NFRTR.

Traveling with an SBR? Before transporting a registered SBR across state lines, non-licensee individuals generally must obtain ATF approval using Form 5320.20. State and local laws must also be considered.