Comment on FR Doc # 2026-08928
Anonymous AnonymousSupportBusiness
Summary: A defense and law enforcement manufacturer is requesting that the ATF clarify the proposed rule to explicitly allow for the temporary transfer of post-1986 machine guns between qualified FFL/SOT holders. They argue that such transfers are necessary to support government procurement, export programs, and other research and development activities that require specialized testing and evaluation by different contractors.
Would ATF consider clarifying that the proposed recognition of prototype development and R&D activities under § 479.105(e) includes temporary transfers of post-1986 machine guns between qualified FFL/SOT manufacturers when necessary to support government procurement, export programs, foreign military solicitations, environmental qualification testing, product certification, engineering evaluation, or other R&D activities? Many defense and law-enforcement procurement programs require specialized testing and evaluation by another qualified manufacturer or contractor. While the proposed rule recognizes prototype development and R&D on behalf of government entities, it does not expressly address transfers between qualified licensees necessary to perform those activities. Could ATF clarify whether temporary transfers between qualified FFL/SOT holders for testing, evaluation, certification, prototype development, repair, and related technical services are permissible when conducted in support of domestic and/or foreign government procurement programs, or other activities performed on behalf of a government entity?