Ships To My State u2014 80% Frame State-by-State Shipping Matrix
Navigating the legal landscape for purchasing 80% frames, receivers, and build kits is entirely dependent on your state of residence. This comprehensive matrix provides a state-by-state breakdown of shipping statuses, relevant statutes, and practical guidance. We cover which states allow unrestricted shipment, which impose conditions, and where such items are prohibited, ensuring you have the factual information needed before ordering.
Understanding 80% Frame & Receiver Shipping Legality
An 80% frame or receiver is an unfinished component that is not classified as a firearm under federal law (27 CFR u00a7 478.11). This means it can generally be sold and shipped directly to a consumer without a background check or Federal Firearms License (FFL) transfer. However, numerous states have enacted their own laws that regulate, restrict, or outright ban these items. Compliance with both federal and state law is mandatory for all shipments.
State Categories: Permissive, Moderate, Restrictive, and Banned
States are grouped based on their regulatory stance toward 80% frames and kits. This categorization helps quickly identify the general legal environment, but the specific statutes and restrictions for each state must be reviewed.
- Permissive States: No state-level laws specifically restricting the sale, possession, or shipment of 80% frames or build kits. Federal law controls.
- Moderate States: States that impose specific regulations, such as serialization requirements, age restrictions, or reporting mandates, but do not ban the items outright.
- Restrictive States: States that heavily regulate or effectively ban 80% frames and kits through laws requiring them to be processed through an FFL or by banning unserialized firearms.
- Banned States: States where the sale, transfer, or possession of 80% frames and/or build kits is explicitly prohibited by statute.
State-by-State Shipping Matrix
The following table details the shipping status, key statutes, and what products can be shipped for each state. This information is current as of the latest statutory updates and is subject to change.
| State | Category | Shipping Status | Key Statute / Effective Date | What Ships | Notes / Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Permissive | Ships Freely | No specific restricting statute. | Frames, Kits, Both | Federal law applies. Must be 21+ for pistol frames. |
| Florida | Permissive | Ships Freely | No specific restricting statute. | Frames, Kits, Both | Federal law applies. Must be 21+ for pistol frames. |
| Washington | Restrictive | Restricted | RCW 9.41.010 (2022) / 2023 | None to residents | Sale of “untraceable firearm” (including 80% frame) prohibited. See our Washington legal page. |
| California | Banned | Banned | PC 16590(b) / 2018 | None | Sale of “unfinished frame or receiver” is illegal. See our California legal page. |
| New York | Banned | Banned | NY Penal Law u00a7 265.00(17) / 2021 | None | Sale of “unfinished frame or receiver” is illegal. See our New York legal page. |
| Illinois | Moderate | Ships with Restriction | 430 ILCS 65/1.1 (2022) | Frames, Kits, Both | Must be serialized per federal rule (27 CFR 478.92) prior to shipment. No FFL required for serialized item. |
| Pennsylvania | Permissive | Ships Freely | No specific restricting statute. | Frames, Kits, Both | Federal law applies. |
Practical Instructions for Residents of Restricted States
If you reside in a state with moderate or restrictive laws, you may still have options, though they are limited. For states requiring serialization, the retailer must apply a serial number meeting federal requirements before shipping. For states where the items are banned, no legal shipment to a resident is possible. It is critical to verify your state’s current laws, as seen in our federal overview, before any purchase attempt.
Federal Framework and State Preemption
Federal law provides the baseline, defining a firearm frame or receiver as one that “provides housing or a structure” for essential components (27 CFR u00a7 478.12). An 80% product does not meet this definition. However, states are not preempted from creating stricter laws. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) enforces federal rules, but state attorneys general enforce state bans. Compliance with the stricter law is always required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does “80 lower ships to my state” mean?
This phrase refers to whether a retailer can legally ship an 80% lower receiver to your specific state address. The answer depends entirely on your state’s laws regarding unfinished receivers and frames, as detailed in the matrix above.
Are polymer 80 state shipping rules different from metal 80% frames?
No. State laws regulating “unfinished frames or receivers” or “ghost guns” typically apply to all materials, including polymer, aluminum, and other metals. The material composition does not change the legal classification under these statutes.
If my state is “Restricted,” can I ship to an FFL instead?
In most cases, no. States like Washington and California have laws that prohibit the sale and transfer of the unfinished item itself, regardless of the transfer channel. An FFL cannot legally receive an item whose sale is banned by state law. Always check the specific state statute.
What is the “state by state 80 lower” legality based on?
Legality is based on individual state statutes, which often amend their criminal or public safety codes. Key terms to look for include “unfinished frame or receiver,” “ghost gun,” “untraceable firearm,” or “firearm precursor part.” The effective dates of these laws are crucial, as they frequently change.
Do I need to be 21 to order an 80% pistol frame?
Under federal law (18 U.S.C. u00a7 922(b)(1)), a licensed dealer cannot sell a firearm “other than a shotgun or rifle” to anyone under 21. While an 80% frame is not a firearm, reputable retailers enforce a policy of only shipping pistol frames to customers 21 and over to align with the intent of federal law and mitigate risk.
Can I legally manufacture a firearm for personal use from an 80% kit?
Under federal law (18 U.S.C. u00a7 922(o)), yes, for personal use and not for sale or distribution, provided you are not a prohibited person. However, several states (e.g., CA, NY, WA) have banned the possession of firearms made from unserialized frames/receivers. You must comply with your state’s law.
How can I get the most current information for my state?
Laws change frequently. Use our state matrix as a starting point, but always consult the official state legislature website for the most current text of the statutes cited. For complex situations, consulting with a legal professional in your state is recommended.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Determining if an 80% frame ships to your state requires careful review of applicable laws. This matrix provides a critical reference point based on current statutes. Always confirm your state’s status before proceeding with any purchase. For customers in permissive states, our full selection of compliant 80% frames, receivers, and build kits is available for direct shipment. Browse our catalog and place your order with confidence at our online shop.