For firearm enthusiasts, DIY builders, and hobbyists, the term 80 lowers has gained significant traction in recent years. These partially completed lower receivers are an essential part of the process when constructing firearms, especially AR-15 or AR-10 rifles. But what exactly is an 80 lower, and why is it so important in the world of firearm construction? In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about 80 lowers, from their definition and purpose to the process of completing them and the legal implications you need to be aware of.
What Is an 80 Lower?
An 80 lower is an unfinished lower receiver for a firearm, usually designed for platforms like the AR-15 or AR-10. As the name implies, the lower receiver is 80% complete, with the remaining 20% of work required to finish it. The lower receiver is a crucial component of any firearm, as it houses the fire control group (trigger, hammer, etc.), the magazine well, and the stock attachment point.
An 80 lower is sold in its unfinished state, typically made from aluminum, steel, or polymer. While the receiver may appear to be a complete part of a firearm at first glance, it is not functional until it has been properly finished. This finishing process involves milling, drilling, and cutting the necessary components to make the lower receiver capable of housing the internal mechanisms required to fire the weapon.
Why Do People Choose 80 Lowers?
There are several reasons why individuals opt for 80 lowers rather than purchasing fully assembled firearms. Here are a few of the key advantages:
1. Customization and Personalization
One of the primary reasons people choose to work with 80 lowers is the ability to fully customize the firearm. By purchasing an 80 lower, you have complete control over the design and parts used in the assembly. From the type of trigger to the stock, handguard, and more, every component can be selected according to your preferences. This level of personalization is not always possible with pre-built firearms, making 80 lowers a popular choice for those who want a truly unique build.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
Building a firearm from an 80 lower can be more cost-effective than purchasing a complete, factory-assembled firearm. Although there are initial costs involved in buying tools, components, and the lower receiver itself, assembling the firearm from scratch can often result in a lower overall cost. By sourcing parts from different manufacturers, you can compare prices and make decisions that fit your budget.
3. Learning and Skill Development
For those interested in learning more about how firearms work, completing an 80 lower can be a highly educational experience. The process of machining, milling, and assembling the parts gives you a deeper understanding of the mechanics of a firearm, the materials used, and the assembly process. This hands-on experience can improve your troubleshooting and repair skills, making it easier to maintain and fix your firearm in the future.
4. Pride of Building Your Own Firearm
There’s a great sense of accomplishment that comes with building your own firearm. From start to finish, you’ll be in control of every detail, from the type of lower receiver to the internals, ensuring that your finished product is exactly as you envision it. Many firearm enthusiasts find the process of building a gun from an 80 lower to be both rewarding and satisfying.
5. Privacy and Control
80 lowers are unique in that they are not classified as firearms until they are completed. This means that individuals can purchase them without the need for a background check in certain states. For those who prefer privacy or wish to maintain full control over their firearm’s construction, purchasing an 80 lower is an attractive option. It also gives builders the freedom to complete the receiver on their own time and in the comfort of their home.
Legal Considerations with 80 Lowers
While 80 lowers are legal to purchase and possess in many areas, it is important to be aware of the legal requirements and regulations governing these items. Since 80 lowers are not considered firearms in their unfinished state, they fall into a legal gray area, and the laws surrounding them can vary significantly depending on where you live.
Federal Law on 80 Lowers
Under federal law in the United States, 80 lowers are not classified as firearms until they are completed. As such, purchasing an 80 lower does not require a background check or registration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). However, once the 80 lower is completed and assembled into a working firearm, it is subject to all the regulations that apply to firearms.
This means that once you’ve completed the 80 lower and assembled it into a fully operational firearm, it must be serialized and treated just like any other firearm. You must adhere to federal laws regarding firearm possession, transfer, and registration, including conducting background checks if you intend to sell the firearm.
State Laws and Variations
While federal law does not classify 80 lowers as firearms until they are completed, state laws can vary significantly. Some states have stricter regulations regarding 80 lowers, while others have more lenient laws. For example:
- California: In California, 80 lowers are treated as firearms once completed and must be serialized and registered with the California Department of Justice.
- New York: Similar to California, New York has strict laws regarding 80 lowers. Once completed, the 80 lower must be serialized and registered as a firearm.
- New Jersey: Like California and New York, New Jersey also requires 80 lowers to be serialized once completed.
It is essential to check the specific laws in your state to ensure that you are in compliance with all regulations before purchasing or completing an 80 lower.
How to Complete an 80 Lower
Turning an 80 lower into a fully functional lower receiver requires a few important steps. The process involves machining, drilling, and milling to complete the necessary features on the lower receiver. Here’s an overview of how to complete an 80 lower:
Step 1: Gather Tools
Before starting the process, you’ll need the right tools. The most important tools include:
- Drill Press or Milling Machine: Used to drill holes and mill the fire control pocket.
- Jig Kit: A jig is essential for aligning the receiver and guiding your drilling and milling.
- End Mills: These tools help you shape the fire control pocket.
- Drill Bits: Required for drilling pin holes and other features.
- Clamps: Used to secure the lower receiver and jig while working.
Step 2: Install the Jig
The jig serves as a template to ensure that your drilling and milling are precise. Install the jig onto the 80 lower to ensure proper alignment. The jig provides guides and stops to help you drill and mill the receiver in the correct positions.
Step 3: Drill the Pin Holes
Start by drilling the necessary pin holes, including the holes for the trigger pin, hammer pin, and safety selector. These holes must be drilled with precision to ensure that the firearm functions correctly once completed.
Step 4: Mill the Fire Control Pocket
This is the most critical step in completing an 80 lower. You’ll need to mill out the fire control pocket, which is where the trigger, hammer, and other components will reside. This step requires the use of a milling machine or a router. Be sure to take your time and check your measurements to avoid any mistakes.
Step 5: Clean Up the Receiver
After milling and drilling, deburr the receiver to remove any sharp edges or burrs that might cause issues when assembling your firearm. You can use a file, deburring tool, or sandpaper to smooth the edges and prepare the receiver for the next steps.
Step 6: Assemble the Fire Control Group
Once the 80 lower is complete, you can assemble the internal parts, including the trigger, hammer, and safety selector. This step prepares the receiver to be paired with the upper receiver and other parts to create a fully functional firearm.
Conclusion
80 lowers offer firearm enthusiasts and hobbyists a chance to create custom-built rifles with complete control over the components used. Whether you’re interested in saving money, gaining hands-on experience, or simply building a firearm to your specifications, working with an 80 lower can be an exciting and rewarding process.
However, it’s important to be aware of the legal implications involved in purchasing and completing an 80 lower. Understanding both federal and state laws will ensure that you stay within legal boundaries and avoid any potential issues.
If you’re interested in building your own firearm from an 80 lower, make sure you gather the necessary tools, follow the proper steps, and adhere to all applicable laws. The result is not only a firearm tailored to your exact preferences but also the satisfaction of having built it yourself.