Comment on FR Doc # 2026-08930

Comment on RIN 1140-AA98 – Removing Factoring Criteria for Firearms With Attached “Stabilizing Braces" I am a law-abiding gun owner, retired engineer, and strong supporter of the Second Amendment living in Colorado. I write in strong support of the proposed rule to remove the factoring criteria for firearms with attached stabilizing braces and to rescind the regulatory language added by the 2023 final rule. The 2023 “stabilizing brace” rule was one of the most aggressive and legally flawed attempts in recent memory to reclassify millions of common, lawfully owned firearms as short-barreled rifles. It turned ordinary pistol braces—widely used for years by disabled shooters, recreational shooters, and law-abiding citizens—into a potential felony overnight. Courts rightly found that rule to be arbitrary, capricious, and inconsistent with the Administrative Procedure Act. The rule never should have been issued, and it should not remain on the books in any form. Stabilizing braces are accessories that improve control and safety for many shooters. They do not magically convert a pistol into a rifle simply because they can be shouldered. The Second Amendment protects arms that are in common use for lawful purposes. Braced pistols clearly meet that standard. Reinstating or leaving in place any version of the prior factoring criteria would continue an unconstitutional burden on the right to keep and bear arms and would expose millions of Americans to potential criminal liability for owning firearms they purchased in good faith. I urge the ATF to finalize this rule promptly and completely. The factoring criteria should be fully removed, the prior regulatory definitions should be restored to their pre-2023 status, and no new subjective tests or “intent” standards should be substituted in their place. Clear, objective rules that respect the common use of these firearms are required. This proposed rule is a necessary and welcome correction. Please finalize it without dilution. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.