Demystifying Firearm Destruction for Importation: More Than Just Three Cuts

For decades, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has maintained that cutting a receiver into three pieces satisfies the requirement to destroy a firearm before it can be imported as scrap. But the General Firearms Act of 1968 and the National Firearms Act of 1934—our governing laws—say nothing about “three cuts” or destroying critical firearm parts. Instead, the statutory question is whether a firearm or receiver is “readily restorable.” In other words, could it be restored to firing condition with reasonable time, ease, expertise, tools and parts? These factors are codified in Title 27, Chapter 2, Subchapter B, Part 478, Subpart B, § 478.11 and help determine whether a collection of parts is still considered a firearm receiver.

ATF Guidance vs. the Law

While the law focuses on restorability, the ATF has issued its own guidance on how to render a receiver unserviceable. According to the ATF’s destruction procedures, there are two broad paths:

• Cut and burn: Use an oxy/acetylene torch to remove at least ¼ inch of metal per cut, severing the receiver in at least three locations.

• Melt, shred or crush: An equally acceptable method is to melt (smelt), shred or crush the firearm receiver.

Importantly, the ATF notes that even if a firearm is unserviceable (e.g., no longer capable of firing), it is still regulated as a firearm under federal law. Therefore, compliance requires more than simply breaking the gun; it must be rendered unusable.

Our Capabilities: Navigating Multiple Methods of Destruction

At Weapon Wall Street, we understand that destroying firearms for importation isn’t one-size-fits-all. We specialize in a variety of destruction methods and know which ones qualify under the law and ATF policy. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Multi-method destruction: Whether it’s torch-cutting in three critical places, crushing receivers to meet ATF’s “smelt, shred or crush” standard, or other specialized techniques, our team can tailor the approach to the firearm type and jurisdiction.

• Saw-cut receivers: A method we are now seeing more frequently is receivers that are saw-cut with an entire section removed. By removing a full portion of the receiver, these parts clearly cannot be “readily restored” under the factors spelled out in § 478.11. This approach is increasingly recognized as satisfying the law’s requirement, offering another compliant path for importation.

• Legal navigation: We don’t just cut metal—we navigate the legal maze. Because neither the GCA nor the NFA prescribes destruction techniques, we stay current on ATF rulings and case law to ensure each import complies with the “readily restorable” standard. Our in-house compliance experts prepare the necessary ATF Form 6 paperwork and coordinate approvals.

Why This Matters

Importing firearms parts is a legitimate business, but missteps in the destruction process can lead to shipment refusals or even criminal liability. By understanding both the law’s emphasis on “readily restorable” and the ATF’s detailed destruction guidance, we help importers avoid costly mistakes.

If you’re looking to bring surplus receivers or machine-gun parts into the United States, Weapon Wall Street offers the expertise to get it done legally and efficiently. We can advise on whether three cuts will suffice, or whether smelting, shredding, crushing—or even saw-cutting with entire sections removed—is the safer bet. Most importantly, we handle the paperwork and the compliance so you can focus on your business.