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New ATF Stabilizing Braces Rule for Short Barrel Rifles

UPDATE: The ATF’s 2023 “Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached Stabilizing Braces” rule, which reclassified many braced pistols as Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs), has been effectively vacated by federal courts, including rulings by the Fifth Circuit. These court decisions found the rule arbitrary, capricious, and a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives (ATF) filed new regulations on January 13th, 2023, classifying certain rifles with a stabilizing brace as short-barreled rifles. Rule submission 2021R-08F, titled “Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached ‘Stabilizing Braces’” was signed by the US Attorney General, which clears the way for the rule to become active once it is published in the Federal Register. Owners of an estimated 3 to 7 million reclassified firearms will then be required to:

  • register for a federal license within 120 days,
  • remove the stabilizing brace from their firearm,
  • replace the short barrel with a barrel 16 inches or longer, or
  • surrender the firearm to the ATF.

The rule includes language waiving the usual fees and taxes required to register similar firearms if the firearm is registered within the 120-day period. Registering is done using ATF Form 1, Application to Make and Register a Firearm. Form 1 has been an eForm since November, so you will need to become registered to submit an eForm on the ATF website to begin the process. Registration is on the ATF website, or use the link below under references as a starting point before you register. But note that the link to register under this rule is different from the one on the regular Form 1 page.

The ATF guidance on the process states that you can either send fingerprint cards or submit fingerprints electronically. We can provide you with either FD-258 fingerprint cards or an Electronic Fingerprint Transmission (EFT) file, depending on which process you choose when submitting Form 1. To schedule your fingerprinting appointment, use the appointment link on our website.

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Graphic for Alabama Fingerprint Solutions showing a rifle with a suppressor and text explaining the 2026 Silencer Shop v ATF ruling removing fingerprint requirements.

No More Fingerprints for Suppressors: What the 2026 ATF Ruling Means for Alabama

October 10, 2026 No Comments

A significant federal court ruling has transformed the landscape for suppressor purchases in Alabama, eliminating the cumbersome fingerprinting process that once burdened gun enthusiasts. With the landmark decision in *Silencer Shop Foundation v. ATF*, Alabama residents can now buy suppressors without the lengthy NFA background checks. This change aligns Alabama with a majority of states enjoying newfound freedom in firearm regulations. Curious about how this ruling affects you and the new purchasing process? Discover everything you need to know about buying a suppressor in Alabama and ensure a smooth transaction under the updated 2026 guidelines.

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Illustration of Florida's Electronic Fingerprint Submission System featuring an electronic fingerprint scanner, FDLE-style digital submission screen, Florida map, FD-258 fingerprint card, and Alabama Fingerprint Solutions branding representing Florida electronic fingerprint submissions for independent providers.

Florida’s Electronic Fingerprint Submission System: How It Was Created and Why It’s Open to Independents

June 28, 2026 No Comments

Wondering why Florida allows independent fingerprint providers to submit electronic fingerprints? Learn the history behind Florida’s Electronic Fingerprint Submission System (EFS), how it was created, and why qualified independent vendors play an important role in serving applicants across the state and beyond. This guide explains how the system works, the difference between independent providers and state-approved vendors, and what you need before scheduling your fingerprint appointment, including your ORI number. If you live outside Florida but need fingerprints for a Florida licensing board, employer, or agency, you’ll also learn how electronic fingerprint submissions can simplify the process. Alabama Fingerprint Solutions provides secure electronic fingerprint submissions for many Florida background check requirements, helping applicants complete their fingerprinting accurately and efficiently. Read on to understand Florida’s unique fingerprinting system and how it benefits both residents and out-of-state applicants.

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