homemade guns

Question
I would like to make guns from scratch, probably starting with simple single shot pistols. I expect to start with black powder, but intend to progress to modern ammo revolvers. I live in Arizona and would like to avoid legal trouble. I do not intend to sell any guns. They would be one of a kind and only for my own enjoyment. Am I likely to be violating any laws? Where would I get this information? Can I legally test fire inside my own shop?

Answer
Jim,

BATF does not regulated the activity you describe.  You can legally build your own guns for your own use, as long as you are not manufacturing for the intent of sale.  It doesn't really matter what type of firearm you are producing.  I know some folks that build their own 1911 type pistols from parts and custom made frames.  

The only qualifier I should probably give you is that you can't build a gun that is 'illegal' to own in your state of residence or that violates federal law.  For example, if you decided that you wanted to build yourself a fully automatic submachine gun, you might have some trouble  since it is illegal to manufacture full auto weapons in the US without proper approval from the BATF.

In terms of test fire in your shop, should you have the equipment to do it safely, using a quality bullet trap device, you very likely won't have any issues.  If you test fire outdoors, you may find yourself violating city ordinances that prohibit the discharge of a firearm with the city limits.  All municipalities in the Phoenix area have such laws on the books.  

My biggest caution to you on the issue of test firing is SAFETY.  The pressures associated with discharging a firearm are surprisingly strong.  I have seen reloaded rounds literally blow quality steel guns apart.  A friend of mine had a revolver blow up on him while using reloaded ammo.  The resulting explosion blew the top strap of the frame off and literally peeled back a 1/2 inch layer of flesh on his inner arm that was about 5 inches long.  He went to the ER...they cleaned it out and stitched him up, but he was very LUCKY that he was not more seriously hurt.  I'd kind of keep that in mind when test firing...

By the way, the point of the above is not so much being careful with handloads or reloads.  The point is that the pressure generated when you discharge a firearm can be considerable and if you aren't building quality stuff or stuff that is capable of handing the pressures, you are essentially making your own 'shrapnel'.

You can do more research on the BATF website on the legal issues.  Have fun, but please, BE  CAREFUL.

Best regards,

Doug