I was in QA for too many years - all I think about is what can go wrong.
I'm thinking about following the Form 1 trail and building my own suppressor, and I'm paranoid about the subjective way a lot of regulations get interpreted. Didn't know if anyone had some definitive answers to allay my concerns
Construction won't start until I get my stamp but what about the initial purchase of parts? And do I have to wait until I screw up a part (threading the tube, punching the baffles, whatever) to buy a replacement? Is a drawer full of freeze plug and O-rings "constructive intent" for the ATF?
For that matter, what happens down the road if I have a baffle strike or the blast chamber just starts to show wear? Do I have to notify the ATF that I, as the "manufacturer," will be performing repairs? Or do I need to destroy it and start all over with a new Form 1 and $200 tax?