Obviously I'm new to this.  Is the primary consideration in determining the legality of an AR-15 when the lower was made or ??


I own a pre-'94 Colt H-bar.  If I put a different upper on it does that make it illegal?

Lastly, if it DOESN'T make it illegal is there anything special that needs to be done or is it just basically take off 1 upper and replace with another?  

Thanks in advance and I hope these questions aren't against the forum rules.

If you are referring to the '94 assault weapons ban, then the determining factor of whether it is a pre ban is whether the rifle was assembled in preban configuration before Sept 1994.

Preban configuration is defined (off the top of my head):
A semi-automatic rifle that accepts detachable magazines.  AND has 2 or mor of the following:
{evil features}
Pistol Grip
Telescoping stock
Flash-suppressor/threaded for such
Bayonnet lug
{/evil features}

If it was in this configuration before 9/94, then it is a preban and you can put any upper with AW characteristics on it (not withstanding any NFA issues).

If it was not in this configuration before 9/94, then you cannot have more than one of the 'evil features' listed above.

Of course this will all go away if the AWB law is allowed to sunset next year without a new law being passed.

Socialist Democrats!

[b] Hey mechanic66 Welcome to the site[wave]  Your good to go with that Per-ban colt. Just don't put a pistol length upper on it and you won't have any problems.  Good Luck  

SaFe ShOoTiNg

  Jerry [):)] [/b]