I wrote a letter to the ATF Technology Branch, asking if a certain idea I have for a gun part is legal without any tax stamps.  That was about six weeks ago; still no reply.  Should I wait longer, or is it a safe bet they "lost" it?  Will they not reply to letters that aren't written in a technical, legalese style?

It takes them 9 months to get back to us when we're sending $200 checks.  You will hear back from them eventually, but anything under 3 months is probably lightning speed.

You don't have to wait, though.  You can keep sending the same letter over and over and over again.  Maybe that'll goose them to reply quicker, or at least tell you they received your letter and stop pestering them, they'll get to you when they get to you?

<-- 07/C2

1) ATF Tech will most likely need to see a prototype before making a determination.

2) It's a government agency, six weeks is nothing.  I wouldn't expect an answer in under six months.

3) If you're not an 07/C2 or a 10/C2 don't be a dummy,  make the thing, and submit it.  Otherwise, if ATF Tech determines it's a Title II firearm or conversion device, and it's not in the NFRTR, you just handed the ATF an unregistered Title II firearm.  Not smart.

Hey OP!

I think you meant to post your question here

U laugh U lose thread

I highly doubt the people who collect money and issue tax stamps are the same ones who reply to technology questions.  So the turnaround times are unrelated.

Also, my question had to do with a simple adaptor, not a full on firearm or even anything that affects the trigger / sear / hammer.  By itself, the adaptor would be unregulated.  My question is about once it's combined with other parts on the firearm.

They do have a phone number at the Tech Branch. Your post doesn't specify, but did you call them to see if they got it, and maybe what specialist is handling the matter?

Employees at NFA are authorized for overtime.  Employees at Tech Branch aren't.  So, NFA will turn stuff around faster.

We give them six months, minimum, on a response.