The appeal of 80% lowers has surged in the world of firearms enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gun enthusiast, a DIY aficionado, or someone looking to understand how to build your own firearm, 80% lowers present a unique opportunity for customization and personal satisfaction. But before you embark on this journey, it’s essential to understand what an 80% lower is, how to complete one, and what to consider before purchasing or working on one.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of 80% lowers, discussing their advantages, potential legal concerns, and the process involved in building your own firearm from scratch.
What Are 80% Lowers?
An 80% lower is essentially a partially finished firearm receiver that requires further machining before it can become a functional firearm. The term “80%” refers to the fact that about 80% of the receiver is already milled, leaving just the last 20% to be completed. This remaining work typically involves drilling pin holes, cutting the fire control pocket, and finishing the trigger area to ensure that the parts fit properly and that the receiver functions as intended.
When you purchase an 80% lower, you’re essentially buying an unfinished component that requires additional work before it’s classified as a firearm. As a result, 80% lowers are not subject to the same regulations as fully completed firearms and can often be purchased without a background check. However, once you finish the work on the receiver, it becomes a functional firearm, subject to all applicable laws and regulations.
Why Are 80% Lowers So Popular?
1. Personalization and Customization
One of the key attractions of 80% lowers is the ability to customize your firearm. Unlike factory-made guns, which come with pre-determined features, an 80% lower allows you to build a gun that suits your personal preferences. You can choose your preferred trigger, stock, barrel, and grip—each of which can be customized to fit your exact needs.
Whether you’re building an AR-15, an AR-10, or another type of firearm, the ability to select every component makes it possible to create a firearm that performs to your standards, whether for hunting, sport shooting, or personal defense.
2. Freedom and Privacy
Many gun enthusiasts are drawn to the freedom offered by building a firearm from an 80% lower. Since an 80% lower is not technically classified as a firearm until completed, it often does not require a background check when purchased. In many states, you can legally buy and own an 80% lower without the same paperwork required for fully functional firearms.
This means that, for those who value privacy and autonomy, 80% lowers provide a more discreet and accessible way to obtain a firearm. However, it’s important to remember that once you finish the lower and assemble the gun, it is considered a firearm and will be subject to standard regulations.
3. Learning Experience and Educational Value
Another compelling reason for the popularity of 80% lowers is the educational value. Building a firearm from an 80% lower is a great way to learn about how firearms function. You’ll become familiar with the internal components of your firearm, including the trigger assembly, fire control group, and bolt carrier group, and understand the mechanics behind their interactions.
For those interested in gunsmithing or anyone who enjoys hands-on projects, building a firearm can be a rewarding challenge. It gives you the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge that will help you better understand firearm operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
4. Cost-Effective DIY Project
Many people are drawn to 80% lowers because they can be a more affordable way to build a firearm. Pre-assembled firearms typically come with a premium for labor, branding, and assembly. When you build your own gun from an 80% lower, you have the option to shop around for quality parts that fit your budget.
While there is an upfront investment in tools and equipment, once you have the necessary machinery, building your own firearms can save you money in the long run. The process also allows you to avoid paying for features you don’t need while ensuring that the parts you use are high quality.
The Legal Aspects of 80% Lowers
While 80% lowers are not considered firearms by the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) until they are completed, it’s important to understand the legal considerations surrounding their use. Below, we’ll discuss federal laws, state-specific regulations, and the process of completing your lower legally.
1. Federal Law and 80% Lowers
According to federal law, an 80% lower is not a firearm, because it cannot yet expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. In its unfinished state, an 80% lower does not meet the definition of a firearm and is not regulated in the same way as fully completed firearms. This is why it can be purchased without a background check in many areas.
However, once the lower is finished—meaning the remaining machining work is completed—it becomes a fully functional firearm and falls under the jurisdiction of the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA). At that point, you must follow all applicable firearm regulations, which may include obtaining a serial number, submitting for background checks, or registering the firearm with local authorities, depending on your state.
2. State Regulations and Restrictions
While federal law offers some leniency in the sale and possession of 80% lowers, state laws can vary significantly. Some states, such as California, New York, and New Jersey, have stricter regulations regarding 80% lowers. In these states, there may be additional restrictions, such as the requirement for serial numbers, background checks, and permits for purchasing or building firearms from an 80% lower.
California, for instance, has banned the sale of 80% lowers in its state and requires individuals to submit to background checks even when completing their own lower receivers. Other states may require you to register your finished firearm with the local authorities or apply for a serial number.
It’s crucial to understand the specific regulations in your state before purchasing an 80% lower or building a firearm. Failing to comply with state laws can lead to serious legal consequences.
3. Serialization and Registration
When you finish building your 80% lower, you may be required to serialize the firearm. Serialization refers to applying a unique identification number to your completed firearm, which helps law enforcement track it if needed. In some states, serialization is mandatory for all firearms, while in others, it may be optional.
If your state requires serialization, you will need to engrave or affix a serial number on the lower receiver, as well as keep a record of the firearm’s details. Failing to serialize your firearm in these states can result in fines or confiscation.
The Process of Completing an 80% Lower
Completing an 80% lower is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires some technical skill, precision, and the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what the process involves:
1. Gather the Right Tools and Equipment
Before you begin, you’ll need the following tools:
- Drill press or mill: These are used to drill the necessary pin holes and cut the fire control pocket.
- 80% lower jig: This guide helps align the lower receiver for precision cutting.
- Drill bits and end mills: These are used for the drilling and milling processes.
- Safety equipment: Always wear goggles, gloves, and hearing protection when working with tools.
2. Set Up the Jig and Attach the Lower
The first step is to securely attach the 80% lower to the jig. The jig helps you align the lower receiver and keeps it in place while you work. The jig provides a blueprint for drilling and milling the necessary holes, ensuring that everything is aligned correctly.
3. Drill the Pin Holes
Next, you will drill holes for the trigger pins, safety selector, and other necessary components. The precision of this step is essential to ensure that the parts fit correctly in the receiver.
4. Mill the Fire Control Pocket
The fire control pocket is the most important area to mill, as it houses the trigger assembly and hammer. You’ll need to carefully remove material from this section to create the appropriate space for the fire control components.
5. Finishing and Assembly
Once the machining is complete, you’ll need to smooth out any rough edges and clean up the receiver. You can also apply a protective coating like anodizing or Cerakote to protect the metal from corrosion.
Finally, install the parts kit, which includes components like the trigger, hammer, and other internal parts. After installation, conduct a function check to ensure everything works as intended.
Benefits and Drawbacks of 80% Lowers
Benefits:
- Customization: Full control over parts selection and firearm design.
- Cost Savings: Can be more affordable than purchasing a pre-assembled firearm.
- Educational Value: Learn how firearms work on a mechanical level.
- Privacy: Some states allow you to purchase 80% lowers without background checks.
Drawbacks:
- Legal Complexity: Must ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Tool Requirements: Requires special tools and technical skills to complete.
- Potential Mistakes: Errors in machining can lead to unusable parts or unsafe firearms.
Conclusion
Building a firearm from an 80% lower can be a highly rewarding and cost-effective project for gun enthusiasts. It offers the opportunity to create a custom firearm tailored to your needs while providing valuable hands-on learning. However, it’s
