In the world of firearm building and customization, 80 lowers have become an increasingly popular choice for enthusiasts looking to craft their own firearms. These unfinished lower receivers offer a unique way to assemble a firearm with a high degree of personalization and customization. Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned expert, understanding the concept of 80 lowers is crucial for anyone interested in the DIY firearm building process. In this article, we will explore what 80 lowers are, why they are popular, how to finish them, and the legal considerations surrounding their use.
What is an 80 Lower?
An 80 lower refers to a partially completed lower receiver for a firearm. It is not yet capable of firing a round because it lacks some essential features such as the fire control pocket and various pin holes. However, it is roughly 80% of the way to being a fully functional lower receiver, hence the name “80 lowers.”
Typically, 80 lowers are made for rifles like the AR-15, AR-10, or other similar firearms. They come as unfinished pieces of aluminum, steel, or other materials, and require additional machining to become operational. Since they are not classified as firearms in their unfinished state, they can be purchased without undergoing the usual background checks and registration processes required for firearms.
Why Are 80 Lowers Popular?
80 lowers are popular for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the key factors contributing to their widespread appeal:
- Customization: One of the primary reasons enthusiasts choose 80 lowers is the ability to fully customize their firearm. When you build a firearm from an 80 lower, you have control over every part of the build, from the stock to the trigger. This allows for a personalized weapon tailored to your preferences and needs.
- Cost Savings: Building a firearm from an 80 lower can often be less expensive than purchasing a fully assembled firearm from a store. While you will need to invest in tools and the lower receiver itself, the overall cost of building a custom firearm can be lower than buying a similar pre-assembled model.
- Learning Experience: Assembling a firearm from an 80 lower is a great way to learn about the inner workings of firearms. By completing the build yourself, you gain hands-on knowledge about how the firearm operates and how each component fits together. This knowledge can be useful for future builds, maintenance, or repairs.
- Satisfaction and Pride: There’s a unique sense of satisfaction that comes from completing a firearm build from scratch. Whether you’re an experienced gunsmith or a first-time builder, successfully completing an 80 lower and assembling a fully functional firearm can be a rewarding experience.
- Privacy: Since 80 lowers are not classified as firearms, purchasing one does not require a background check or firearm registration. This offers a degree of privacy that is not available when buying a fully assembled firearm.
How to Complete an 80 Lower
Turning an 80 lower into a functional firearm requires precision, patience, and the right tools. The process typically involves milling, drilling, and cutting to complete the lower receiver. Here’s an overview of the steps involved:
1. Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, it’s important to have the right tools for the job. Completing an 80 lower requires specialized tools that will allow you to drill and mill the receiver to the correct specifications. Some of the essential tools include:
- Drill Press or Milling Machine: These are used for drilling holes and milling out the fire control pocket.
- Jig Kit: A jig helps guide your drilling and milling process to ensure that everything is aligned correctly.
- End Mills: These are used for cutting the fire control pocket.
- Drill Bits: These are used for drilling the holes necessary for pins and other components.
- Deburring Tools: These tools are used to smooth out rough edges after machining.
- Clamps: To securely hold the lower receiver in place during the process.
2. Install the Jig
The first step in completing an 80 lower is to install the lower receiver into the jig. The jig holds the receiver securely in place and provides the necessary alignment for precise drilling and milling.
3. Drill the Pin Holes
Once the jig is in place, you’ll need to drill the pin holes for the trigger, hammer, and safety selector. These holes must be drilled in precise locations, as even small mistakes can prevent the firearm from functioning properly.
4. Mill the Fire Control Pocket
The most important part of finishing an 80 lower is milling the fire control pocket. This pocket is where the trigger, hammer, and other internal components will sit. To complete the pocket, you’ll need a milling machine or router to remove material from the lower receiver. This step requires careful attention, as any mistakes can render the firearm inoperable.
5. Finish the Edges
After drilling and milling, you may notice some rough edges or burrs around the holes and fire control pocket. Use a deburring tool or file to smooth out these areas. This step ensures that the lower receiver is ready for assembly.
6. Assemble the Fire Control Group
Once the 80 lower is finished, you can begin assembling the fire control group. This includes installing the trigger, hammer, and safety selector. With these components in place, the lower receiver is ready to be paired with an upper receiver and other components to complete the firearm.
Legal Considerations for 80 Lowers
One of the main reasons people are drawn to 80 lowers is that they are not considered firearms until they are fully completed. This distinction allows individuals to purchase and own 80 lowers without undergoing background checks or registration processes that are typically required for firearms. However, it is important to be aware of the legal landscape surrounding 80 lowers, as it can vary from state to state.
Federal Law
Under U.S. federal law, 80 lowers are not classified as firearms because they are not capable of firing a round until they are completed. This means that purchasing and possessing an 80 lower does not require a background check or registration with the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives). However, once the 80 lower is completed into a functional firearm, it becomes subject to the same regulations as any other firearm, including serializing the receiver and complying with all laws regarding ownership and transfer.
State Law
While federal law provides general guidelines, state laws vary greatly when it comes to 80 lowers. Some states have stricter regulations regarding the completion and ownership of 80 lowers. For example:
- California: In California, 80 lowers must be serialized before being completed into a firearm, and individuals must register the firearm once it is finished.
- New York: New York has similar laws, requiring 80 lowers to be serialized and registered before being legally used.
- New Jersey: New Jersey also treats 80 lowers as firearms once they are completed and requires them to be serialized.
It is essential to check the laws in your specific state to ensure that you are in compliance with all local regulations before purchasing or completing an 80 lower.
Benefits of Building with 80 Lowers
There are many advantages to building your own firearm from an 80 lower, including:
1. Customization
Building a firearm from an 80 lower allows for complete customization. You can choose every component, from the stock to the trigger, and configure the weapon to your personal specifications. This level of control is not possible when purchasing a pre-built firearm.
2. Cost Efficiency
While completing an 80 lower requires an initial investment in tools, it can often be more cost-effective than buying a fully assembled firearm. With an 80 lower, you have the flexibility to source individual components based on your budget, allowing you to build a firearm that fits your needs without breaking the bank.
3. Hands-On Learning
For those interested in learning more about firearms, completing an 80 lower is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience. Assembling the firearm yourself allows you to understand how each part functions and how they work together. This knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to maintaining or upgrading your firearm in the future.
4. Satisfaction of Building Your Own Firearm
There’s a unique sense of pride and satisfaction that comes from building a firearm with your own hands. Completing an 80 lower and assembling it into a fully functional weapon is a rewarding accomplishment for any firearm enthusiast.
Conclusion
In summary, 80 lowers offer a fantastic opportunity for firearm enthusiasts to build their own custom firearms. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can complete an 80 lower and assemble a fully functional firearm that suits your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking to save money, learn more about firearms, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of building your own gun, 80 lowers provide an exciting and rewarding path to creating a firearm tailored to your needs.
However, it’s important to understand the legal implications of working with 80 lowers. Always ensure that you are following the laws in your state and that your completed firearm complies with all relevant regulations.
