SBR Trusts: Legally Own Short-Barreled Rifles
What is an SBR?
A Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) is defined by federal law as a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or an overall length of less than 26 inches. These firearms are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and require special registration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
SBRs are popular for their compact size, maneuverability, and versatility, making them ideal for home defense, recreational shooting, and collectors.
SBR Definition Under Federal Law:
- Barrel length less than 16 inches, OR
- Overall length less than 26 inches
- Requires registration under the National Firearms Act
- Subject to a $200 tax stamp upon transfer or manufacture
Common Examples of SBRs:
AR-15 Pistols Converted to SBRs
AR-15 platform firearms with barrels shorter than 16 inches that have stocks attached.
Short AK-Pattern Rifles
AK-pattern rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches, such as the "Krink" style.
Converted Pistol Caliber Carbines
Firearms like MP5s, CZ Scorpions, or other PCCs with short barrels and stocks.
Why Use an NFA Trust for Your SBR
Multiple Users Legally Allowed
With an NFA trust, multiple trustees can legally possess and use your SBR. Without a trust, only the registered individual can possess the firearm.
Simplified Estate Planning
An NFA trust provides clear instructions for the transfer of your SBR upon your death, avoiding probate and preventing accidental illegal transfers to heirs.
Privacy Protection
The trust, not you personally, is the legal owner of the SBR, providing an additional layer of privacy compared to individual registration.
Legal Framework
Our NFA trust provides a clear legal framework for ownership, possession, and transfer of your SBR, helping ensure compliance with complex federal regulations.
The SBR Registration Process
Create Your NFA Trust
Start by creating your NFA trust with TrustNFA. Our process takes just 10 minutes and provides you with a legally compliant trust document.
After receiving your trust documents, you'll need to get them signed and notarized.
Submit ATF Form 1 or Form 4
Form 1 (Making an SBR): If you're converting an existing firearm into an SBR, you'll file ATF Form 1 (Application to Make and Register a Firearm).
Form 4 (Transferring an SBR): If you're purchasing an already registered SBR, you'll use ATF Form 4 (Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearm).
Submit Required Documentation
All responsible persons (trustees) must submit:
- Photographs
- Fingerprints
- Completed Responsible Person Questionnaire
You'll also need to notify your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO).
Pay the $200 Tax Stamp
Submit the $200 tax payment required for each SBR registration.
Wait for Approval
Wait for ATF approval, which can take several months. For Form 1 applications, do NOT make your SBR until you receive approval.
Once approved, you'll receive your tax stamp, and your SBR will be legally registered to your NFA trust.
State Laws and SBR Ownership
While our NFA trust is valid in all 50 states, not all states allow civilian ownership of SBRs. Before starting the registration process, verify that SBRs are legal in your state.
States Where SBRs Are Generally Legal
Most states allow SBR ownership with proper federal registration, including:
Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Virginia, Tennessee, and many others.
States With SBR Restrictions
Some states prohibit or heavily restrict SBR ownership, including:
California, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Frequently Asked Questions About SBRs
Can I travel with my SBR?
Yes, you can travel with your SBR, but there are restrictions. For interstate travel, you must file ATF Form 5320.20 (Application to Transport NFA Firearms) and receive approval before crossing state lines. Additionally, you can only transport your SBR to states where they are legal.
What's the difference between an SBR and an AR pistol?
The primary difference is that an AR pistol has a pistol brace instead of a stock and is designed to be fired with one hand. Once you attach a stock to a pistol with a barrel less than 16 inches, it becomes an SBR and requires NFA registration. AR pistols do not require NFA registration, but recent ATF rule changes have affected the classification of pistol braces.
Can I convert my existing rifle into an SBR?
Yes, you can convert an existing rifle into an SBR by filing ATF Form 1 and receiving approval before making the conversion. It's important to wait for approval before installing a barrel less than 16 inches or reducing the overall length to less than 26 inches.
How long does the SBR approval process take?
Approval times vary, but Form 1 applications (to make an SBR) typically take 1-3 months when filed electronically. Form 4 applications (to transfer an existing SBR) can take 6-12 months. These timeframes can change based on ATF workload.
Ready to Create Your SBR Trust?
Our NFA trust is specifically designed to handle SBRs and other NFA items, providing you with a legally compliant document that's accepted in all 50 states. Get started today and receive your trust documents instantly.
Your Trust Includes:
- Attorney-drafted documents
- Valid in all 50 states
- Unlimited revisions
- Digital storage for life
- Instant delivery