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

Short-barreled rifle (SBR) laws involve both federal firearm requirements and state and local restrictions.

On October 9, 2026, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced a nationwide enforcement policy concerning certain National Firearms Act (NFA) requirements for short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), suppressors, and certain other weapons (AOWs).

The federal policy does not override state law. Michigan law separately regulates SBRs, and Michigan customers should not assume that ATF's announcement eliminates the requirements applicable to their transactions. Red Circle Tactical continues to follow the applicable requirements for Michigan transactions.

Before purchasing, building, possessing, or transporting an SBR, verify the laws applicable to your specific firearm and location. See the official ATF NFA transfer guidance for details and limitations.

What Is an SBR?

Federal law generally defines an SBR to include a rifle with a barrel less than 16 inches long, or a weapon made from a rifle that has an overall length of less than 26 inches. The classification of a particular firearm depends on its configuration and applicable law.

SBR transactions can involve federal requirements as well as state and local restrictions. Before purchasing, building, possessing, or transporting an SBR, verify the requirements applicable to the specific firearm and jurisdiction.

For the official federal announcement, see the ATF NFA Transfer Guidance and FAQs.

1. Buy an SBR From Our Webstore

Michigan Residents:

Simply select your SBR online or visit us in-store.
We help you complete the applicable Form 4 paperwork and follow the required transfer process.
Once approved, pick up your SBR at our store and complete Form 4473, just like purchasing any other firearm.

Out-of-State Buyers (where lawful):

Contact us about the SBR you wish to purchase.
If the sale is lawful, we can coordinate shipment to a receiving dealer in your state.
The receiving dealer must follow the federal and state requirements applicable to the transaction. Do not assume that the federal policy overrides restrictions in the buyer's state.

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 (on a Form 3).
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)

If you are considering building an SBR from a firearm or parts, first confirm that the planned configuration is lawful under applicable federal, state, and local law.

Form 1 is the ATF application traditionally used to request authorization to make an NFA firearm.
The federal making tax for covered SBRs is $0. A $0 tax does not, by itself, resolve the other legal requirements applicable to a particular firearm or transaction.
ATF's October 9, 2026, announcement changes the enforcement of certain federal NFA provisions. It does not override state law.
Before assembling an SBR in Michigan, verify the applicable requirements and do not assume that the federal announcement eliminates the need to follow the established process.

Building an SBR requires careful attention to the firearm's configuration and applicable law. Contact us if you have questions about the process.

SBR Ownership Requirements & Rules

Marking and identification: Applicable requirements depend on the firearm, how it was made, and the laws governing it. Verify the requirements before building or modifying an SBR.
Changing an SBR's configuration: Permanently reconfiguring a firearm may affect its classification, depending on its configuration and applicable law. Do not assume that a change automatically resolves any existing registration or compliance obligations.
Traveling across state lines: ATF instructs individuals to continue filing Form 5320.20 before interstate transportation of an SBR, even if the firearm is not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. State and local laws at the destination also apply.
State and local restrictions: Federal enforcement policy does not override state or local law. Confirm that the firearm and proposed transaction comply with the requirements applicable to every jurisdiction involved.

For the official federal guidance, see the ATF NFA Transfer Guidance and FAQs