ATF Rescinds Controversial Classification of Franklin Armory Firearms: What It Means for Gun Owners

On August 29, 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issued an open letter that marks a pivotal moment for firearm enthusiasts, manufacturers, and Second Amendment advocates. The letter officially rescinds the ATF’s 2019 classification of Franklin Armory’s Reformation and Antithesis firearms, following a legal settlement with the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition and Franklin Armory. This decision has significant implications for gun owners, dealers, and the broader firearms industry.

Background on the Reformation and Antithesis

Franklin Armory’s Reformation and Antithesis firearms stand out due to their innovative designs, which challenge traditional firearm classifications. The Reformation, for example, features a straight-grooved barrel that enables it to fire shotshells without conventional rifling, raising questions about whether it qualifies as a shotgun or rifle. In 2019, the ATF classified the Reformation as a shotgun under the Gun Control Act (GCA) (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(6)), or a short-barreled shotgun (SBS) if the barrel was under 18 inches, subjecting it to stringent National Firearms Act (NFA) regulations. Similarly, the Antithesis was classified as a short-barreled rifle (SBR) under both the GCA and NFA, requiring additional registration and tax stamps.

These classifications stirred controversy, imposing significant regulatory burdens on owners and dealers. The Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, in partnership with Franklin Armory, challenged the ATF’s rulings in court, arguing that the classifications were inconsistent with the firearms’ designs and legal definitions. The courts vacated the ATF’s classifications, paving the way for the recent settlement and the open letter.

The ATF’s New Position

The ATF’s open letter clarifies that, as part of the settlement:

• The Reformation is not classified as a short-barreled shotgun (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(6)), short-barreled rifle (§ 921(a)(8)), or an NFA firearm (26 U.S.C. § 5845(a)).
• The Antithesis is similarly not classified as a rifle, short-barreled rifle, or NFA item.
• Both firearms are fully compliant with GCA and NFA regulations without requiring additional registration or tax stamps.

This ruling effectively removes these firearms from the restrictive NFA framework, simplifying their ownership, transfer, and transport.

Implications for Gun Owners and Dealers

The rescission of the ATF’s earlier classifications has several practical impacts:

1. No NFA Requirements: Owners and dealers of the Reformation and Antithesis are no longer required to complete NFA paperwork or register these firearms with the ATF. This reduces administrative hassle.
2. Interstate Travel: Unlike NFA-regulated items, these firearms no longer require ATF Form 5320.20 for interstate transport, allowing owners to cross state lines freely (provided they comply with state and local laws).
3. Market Freedom: Dealers can buy, sell, and transfer these firearms without the additional regulatory steps previously mandated, potentially increasing their availability and appeal.

Broader Impact on the Firearms Industry

This ruling is a significant victory for Franklin Armory and the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, as it validates innovative firearm designs within the boundaries of legal classifications. By successfully challenging the ATF’s authority to impose restrictive classifications, this decision could inspire manufacturers to explore new designs that fall outside the scope of NFA regulations. It also highlights the power of legal challenges in curbing what some see as regulatory overreach by the ATF.

For the broader firearms community, this development may encourage further innovation, as manufacturers gain confidence that non-traditional designs can be defended against restrictive classifications. However, it also underscores the ongoing tension between regulators and the firearms industry, as debates over definitions and compliance continue to evolve.

Looking Ahead

The ATF’s decision to rescind its classifications of the Reformation and Antithesis is a landmark moment for Second Amendment advocates and the firearms industry. It not only alleviates burdens on owners and dealers but also sets a precedent for challenging regulatory interpretations through legal action. As the industry continues to innovate, we can expect more discussions—and potentially more court battles—over how firearms are classified and regulated.

For those interested in the full details, the ATF’s open letter is available on their official website and below. What are your thoughts on this ruling? Could it spark a new wave of firearm innovation?

Disclaimer: Always consult federal, state, and local laws before purchasing, transferring, or transporting firearms.