does a muzzle brake or compensator count toward barrel length?

idek · February 9, 2013, 04:00 AM

I'm guessing the answer is no, but I'm wondering if the added length of a muzzle break or compensator is included when determining barrel length or overall length of a firearm.

Specifically, I'm thinking overall length of a bull-pup gun. Assuming it needs an 18" barrel to meet OAL requirements, would a 16.5" barrel with a 2" brake be acceptable?

ScottRiqui · February 9, 2013, 04:05 AM

As long as something like a brake or a flash hider is permanently attached to the barrel, it's counted toward overall barrel length. As for what constitutes "permanent", here's the wording from ATF:

"Permanent methods of attachment include full-fusion gas or electric steel-seam welding, high-temperature (1100°F) silver soldering, or blind pinning with the pin head welded over."

idek · February 9, 2013, 02:54 PM

Thanks for the clarification. You explained it very well.

February 9, 2013, 04:00 AM	#1
idek Senior Member Join Date: August 20, 2009 Posts: 461	does a muzzle brake or compensator count toward barrel length? I'm guessing the answer is no, but I'm wondering if the added length of a muzzle break or compensator is included when determining barrel length or overall length of a firearm. Specifically, I'm thinking overall length of a bull-pup gun. Assuming it needs an 18" barrel to meet OAL requirements, would a 16.5" barrel with a 2" brake be acceptable?

February 9, 2013, 04:05 AM	#2
ScottRiqui Senior Member Join Date: January 27, 2010 Location: Norfolk, VA Posts: 2,896	As long as something like a brake or a flash hider is permanently attached to the barrel, it's counted toward overall barrel length. As for what constitutes "permanent", here's the wording from ATF: "Permanent methods of attachment include full-fusion gas or electric steel-seam welding, high-temperature (1100°F) silver soldering, or blind pinning with the pin head welded over."

February 9, 2013, 02:54 PM	#3
idek Senior Member Join Date: August 20, 2009 Posts: 461	Thanks for the clarification. You explained it very well.