About Parts Kit Builds
Table of Contents
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to talk about parts kit builds today. Builds using parts kits have been popular among shooters for years as many unique firearms can be had in the form of a kit build. Our goal with this blog post is to discuss what parts kits builds are in addition to many of the considerations surrounding them in addition to other pertinent information. Without further ado, let’s talk about parts kit builds.
Not Talking About ARs
For the purposes of this blog, we are not talking about build kits which are used for firearms such as AR-15s. The types of kits we will be focusing on are much more involved than those used for AR-15, often requiring very specialized tools and skills to build. In contrast, AR builds can generally be accomplished with common and simple tools and with very minimal skill. Most gunsmiths and armorers can make short work of AR builds while not every gunsmith is capable of building out a parts kit.
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What is a Kit Build?
A parts kit build refers to a firearm which was built using parts from a demilled firearm. These firearms are generally going to mirror their automatic counterparts in all forms except for being fully-automatic. These types of builds will generally adhere to the style of the original firearm they are derived from for authenticity’s sake. Other times, some people will ”kit-bash” or build “Frankenguns” from parts kits, often creating some interesting and unique builds. Alterations can include things such as added optics rails or changing the caliber of the firearm entirely. Simply put, when one builds a parts kit, they will have a say in how it turns out. Will they build a historic firearm and adhere to established tradition or will they take liberties and make something unique and off the beaten path? The choice is ultimately up to the builder.
What are Parts Kits?
Simply put, parts kits are firearm components which came from an existing firearm. These kits are generally lacking a receiver and will require the end user to source a compatible receiver. If a receiver is included, it will be in an unusable state, often featuring significant torch cuts splitting the unit. This is due to the fact that many of the parts kits coming into the country include parts which came from an existing machine gun. Per the ATF, if a firearm is a machine gun at any point in its existence, it is always a machine gun. As such, receivers must be destroyed in accordance with ATF requirements and existing laws.
Are Parts Kits Legal?
Parts kits can legally be built into firearms as long as an end user follows local, state, and federal regulations. It would be illegal to build a fully-automatic firearm from a parts kit without the proper licensure, even if the components are included in the kit.
What Firearms can Be Built with Parts Kits?
Some of the most common firearms built from parts kits are AK pattern firearms and roller lock HK designs. Additionally, some rare and unique firearms can be built from parts kits. Some examples of unique firearms include SIG 510 style rifles, Galils, Bren machine guns, 1919s, and more.
Are Parts Kits Expensive?
Parts kits tend to be a bit on the expensive side these days. The price of these kits can increase over time for a variety of factors. Factors such as sanctions and import restrictions along with dwindling supply increase the scarcity and rarity of certain types of build kits.
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Where Do You Build Parts Kits?
There are two major ways one can complete parts kit builds. You can either build it yourself or get it build professionally. Building out a parts kit yourself will require skill with tools and the knowledge of how to properly use them. Depending on the specific firearm, one may need specialized tools and gauges. This is especially true when it comes to ensuring proper headspace and bolt gap are achieved. If one is looking for a builder near them, the internet is going to be a great resource. One can talk on forums and social media with other parts kit enthusiasts for information on where they can get their build done. Additionally, one may also glean information regarding the possibility of building the firearm themselves. Beyond the internet, one can inquire at local shops and gunsmiths to see if they are capable of building a kit out or if they know someone who can.
Conclusion
All in all, parts kit builds allow shooters to assemble unique firearms and breathe life into demilled parts and components. By building a parts kit out into a complete firearm, one will have the added satisfaction of constructing a firearm which is more unique than traditional ones which are commercially available. Often times, the additional steps of putting a parts kit together will yield a rare firearm which is envied by collectors and well-worth the invested time. Regardless of whether you build or buy your firearms, we here at True Shot are here to support you with a wide range of
ammunition for sale. Everything from
9mm Luger to calibers such as
5.56x45mm NATO and
7.62x39 are among our
ammunition offerings. As always, happy shooting.
Need bulk ammo? At True Shot Ammo, we have a wide variety of handgun ammo and rifle ammo available to purchase. Please visit our website trueshotammo.com, call us at (888) 736-6587, or you can email us at sales@trueshotammo.com for more ammo options.
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