How is OAL determined on...

[Germz]

This question may seem very obvious, however my question is aimed toward platforms such as AR pistols.

I know that if a pistol overall length exceeds 26" it crosses into NFA/AOW territory, but what are the measuring points?

specifically (not saying I am doing this) I have seen AR pistol barrels that are "recessed" in a free float (eg. 10" barrel inside a 12" free float).

would the pistol then be measured from the end of the buffer tube to the end of the rail...or the barrel?

[Quiet]

Under Federal laws/regulations:
If the firearm has a less than 16" rifled barrel and an overall length of less than 26", then it is a Title 1 Handgun.
If the firearm has a less than 16" rifled barrel and an overall length of less than 26" and has a vertical forward grip, then it is a Title 2 AOW.
If the firearm has a less than 16" rifled barrel and an overall length of greater than 26", then it is a Title 1 Other firearm.
If the firearm has a less than 16" rifled barrel and an overall length of less than 26" and a shoulder stock, then it is a Title 2 SBR.

Measure overall length of the AR15 style firearm from the end of the buffer tube to the end of the barrel.

[Whiterabbit]

I made a comment awhile ago about OAL being measured in the plane parallel to the barrel and was immediately corrected by Randall. So, my guess then is that OAL will be the longest point from the tip of the muzzle device to the back of the buffer tube, regardless if that is inline with the barrel or not. Or in your example, the end of the tube, since it sticks out farther.

[TheExiled]

Seems like an ugly grey area.. I would stick with the end of the barrel

[EBR Works]

For the AR pistol not to be an AOW, my understanding is that it must be a minimum 26" without the muzzle device installed, unless it is permanently attached.

[Germz]

so in this instance:



to the tip of the barrel? or the end of the rail?

[Quiet]

so in this instance:



to the tip of the barrel? or the end of the rail?

End of the rail.

[Germz]

My next question will be:

I am looking to create a pistol with a rifled barrel LESS than 16" and an overall length GREATER THAN 26". This according to post #2 would make it a "Title 1 Other" firearm. (Not an AOW). Does this mean i can attach a vertical foregrip without having any additional paperwork needed?

[Quiet]

My next question will be:

I am looking to create a pistol with a rifled barrel LESS than 16" and an overall length GREATER THAN 26". This according to post #2 would make it a "Title 1 Other" firearm. (Not an AOW). Does this mean i can attach a vertical foregrip without having any additional paperwork needed?

Yes.
Under Federal laws, a Title 1 Other can legally have a vertical forward grip attached.
Under CA laws, a semi-auto pistol that uses a fixed 10 round magazine can legally have a second handgrip.