
When it comes to firearms, enthusiasts and hobbyists have long been interested in customizing their own guns. One of the most popular ways to do this is by using 80% lowers. These parts have become increasingly common in the DIY firearm-building community. But what exactly are 80% lowers, why are they so popular, and what are the legal considerations surrounding them?
In this comprehensive guide, weβll take a deep dive into 80% lowersβexploring what they are, how they work, their legality, and the steps to building a firearm from scratch using one. By the end of this article, youβll have a thorough understanding of 80% lowers and the critical considerations to keep in mind when purchasing and using them.
What Are 80% Lowers?
At its core, an 80% lower refers to a firearm part that is nearly complete but requires some additional work before it can function as a part of a fully operational firearm. Specifically, it is a lower receiver that has been partially manufactured, typically to around 80% of the final shape and form. This means it needs additional machining or drilling to complete its functional components, such as the fire control group cavity, trigger guard, or safety mechanisms.
To better understand this, letβs break down the function of the lower receiver. The lower receiver is the part of the gun that houses critical components, including the trigger mechanism and magazine well. On an 80% lower, the bulk of the material is already in place, but it is not yet a fully functioning receiver.
Manufacturers create 80% lowers to give hobbyists and DIY builders the opportunity to finish the remaining portion of the firearm. These products are usually sold as unregulated parts because they aren’t yet fully functional, making them distinct from completed, functional lower receivers.
Why Choose 80% Lowers?
There are several reasons why people opt for 80% lowers over buying fully assembled lower receivers or firearms. Some of the main benefits include:
- Customization: Many gun owners enjoy customizing their firearms to suit their unique needs and preferences. 80% lowers allow builders to select their preferred parts and materials, then complete the assembly themselves.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing an 80% lower can often be cheaper than buying a fully completed firearm, especially when purchasing in bulk. With some DIY work, owners can save money on the overall build cost.
- Satisfaction of Building: For many firearm enthusiasts, the satisfaction of building a firearm from scratch is a significant draw. Completing an 80% lower and assembling it into a fully functional firearm can provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Legal Considerations: In certain regions, building a firearm from an 80% lower allows individuals to circumvent some regulations that apply to completed firearms. However, this is subject to local laws and regulations, which we’ll discuss later.
The Assembly Process of 80% Lowers
Building a firearm from an 80% lower involves several steps. While the process may vary slightly depending on the type of firearm you’re assembling, the general approach to finishing the lower receiver remains largely the same.
- Preparation: The first step is to gather all the tools and materials you’ll need. This may include a drill press, jig kit, various bits, and safety equipment like goggles and gloves. Many builders opt to purchase a jig kit, which helps guide the machining process and ensures the receiver is correctly aligned.
- Drilling: The primary task in finishing an 80% lower involves drilling several holes to create the functional components of the lower receiver. These holes include the trigger pin, hammer pin, and other necessary cavities. The exact measurements and hole placements will vary depending on the firearm’s design.
- Cutting: The next step is to cut away excess material to form the necessary cavities. This could include the fire control group cavity and the magazine well. Some builders use tools like routers or rotary tools for this step, while others may choose to take their time with hand tools.
- Fitting Parts: Once the lower receiver is fully machined, the next task is to fit the necessary internal parts, including the trigger assembly, hammer, and safety mechanisms. Depending on the components used, some fine-tuning may be necessary to ensure everything fits properly.
- Finishing Touches: After all the parts are installed and the receiver is functional, you may want to apply a finishing coating to protect the metal. This could include anodizing, cerakoting, or applying a different finish to enhance durability and appearance.
Legal Aspects of 80% Lowers
One of the most important considerations when dealing with 80% lowers is understanding the legal landscape surrounding them. While 80% lowers are legal to purchase and possess in many areas, their legal status can vary significantly depending on local laws and regulations.
Federal Laws (United States)
In the United States, 80% lowers are classified as unfinished parts, which means they are not regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) as firearms. According to federal law, an 80% lower does not constitute a “firearm” because it cannot function as one until it has been fully completed. This distinction means that individuals are generally free to purchase 80% lowers without needing to undergo background checks, federal registration, or other restrictions that apply to fully assembled firearms.
However, once the 80% lower is finished and becomes a functional lower receiver, it is subject to all applicable firearm laws, including registration and background checks, depending on the jurisdiction. Therefore, completing an 80% lower into a fully operational firearm could trigger additional legal requirements.
State and Local Laws
The legality of 80% lowers varies at the state and local level. Some states, such as California, New York, and New Jersey, have stricter laws regarding unfinished firearms parts. In some jurisdictions, the sale and possession of 80% lowers may be restricted, and individuals may be required to register their completed firearms with local authorities.
Itβs crucial to research and understand your state and local laws before purchasing or completing an 80% lower. Some states require that individuals possess a firearm serial number and register their homemade firearms with the appropriate authorities. Ignoring these requirements can lead to severe penalties.
How to Choose an 80% Lower
Choosing the right 80% lower for your project depends on several factors, including the type of firearm youβre building and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider when selecting an 80% lower:
- Material: 80% lowers are typically made from aluminum or steel, with aluminum being the most common material. Aluminum lowers are lighter and easier to machine, while steel lowers are heavier and more durable but may require more advanced tools to finish.
- Design: Different 80% lowers are available for various firearm platforms, including AR-15s, AR-10s, and pistols. Make sure you choose a lower that fits the specific build you intend to create.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the 80% lower is compatible with the parts you plan to use in the rest of the build. This includes considering whether it fits the type of trigger, safety, and fire control components you want to use.
- Quality: Not all 80% lowers are made the same. Some may have imperfections or flaws in their machining, which could complicate the finishing process or affect the functionality of the final product. Look for reputable manufacturers with a track record of high-quality parts.
- Price: 80% lowers are generally less expensive than fully assembled receivers or complete firearms, but prices can vary depending on the material, design, and brand. Make sure to balance cost with quality to ensure you get the best value.
The Future of 80% Lowers
The popularity of 80% lowers continues to rise as more and more individuals seek out ways to customize and build their own firearms. While the legal landscape surrounding 80% lowers may evolve, itβs likely that the demand for DIY firearms will remain strong. As technology improves, new tools and methods will make it easier for hobbyists to complete their builds with precision and accuracy.
However, the increasing scrutiny of unfinished firearm parts by legislators and law enforcement agencies may lead to more regulation in the future. Gun owners should stay informed about local, state, and federal laws to ensure that they remain in compliance.
Conclusion
80% lowers provide an exciting opportunity for firearm enthusiasts to build their own custom firearms. Whether for personal satisfaction, cost savings, or the ability to tailor a firearm to specific needs, 80% lowers have become a staple of the DIY gun-building community. However, as with any firearm-related project, itβs essential to understand the legal aspects and ensure that you are following the proper procedures when finishing and assembling your firearm.
By researching the materials, legal considerations, and assembly steps, you can successfully complete your 80% lower and create a firearm that suits your preferences. Always remember to stay informed and comply with local laws to ensure that your project is safe and legal.