Guys, from my search here, and in speaking with my FFL, I realize the state police hasn't described exactly what a "heavy barrel" is, and most people seem to think it's better that way.
Is there a general consensus on what "heavy barrel" means?
I'm thinking of assembling an upper incorporating a Wylde or 5.56 chamber, rifle length gas system, and an 18" overall barrel, with the last few inches, ahead of the gas block, being .720" or .730" thick (I haven't bought the parts, some manufacturers differ a bit). From the gas port backward it measures approximately .840" and over.
I just measured my old school Bushmaster 20" upper, literally stamped "Hbar", and the thinnest area of the barrel, again, in front of the gas block, measures .720." Behind the gas block, all the way back, it is either .750" or thicker (I couldn't easily remove the handguards, but will try later with the tool).
Obviously, I don't want to break the law, which is the reason I have researched the topic and am still looking for answers.
In your opinions, would the 18" barrel described above comply with the "heavy barrel" rule?
If not, then can those of you more learned in the law and/or rules and opinions, suggest alternatives for me to build an 18" upper within those laws/rules/opinions, without it being a pistol or SBR?
Thanks, and sorry if this has been covered. Since it's an important aspect of gun ownership in MD these days, perhaps a "sticky" can be posted for quick reference.
Thanks in advance!
Is there a general consensus on what "heavy barrel" means?
I'm thinking of assembling an upper incorporating a Wylde or 5.56 chamber, rifle length gas system, and an 18" overall barrel, with the last few inches, ahead of the gas block, being .720" or .730" thick (I haven't bought the parts, some manufacturers differ a bit). From the gas port backward it measures approximately .840" and over.
I just measured my old school Bushmaster 20" upper, literally stamped "Hbar", and the thinnest area of the barrel, again, in front of the gas block, measures .720." Behind the gas block, all the way back, it is either .750" or thicker (I couldn't easily remove the handguards, but will try later with the tool).
Obviously, I don't want to break the law, which is the reason I have researched the topic and am still looking for answers.
In your opinions, would the 18" barrel described above comply with the "heavy barrel" rule?
If not, then can those of you more learned in the law and/or rules and opinions, suggest alternatives for me to build an 18" upper within those laws/rules/opinions, without it being a pistol or SBR?
Thanks, and sorry if this has been covered. Since it's an important aspect of gun ownership in MD these days, perhaps a "sticky" can be posted for quick reference.
Thanks in advance!