Is Frt-15 Legal in Florida? Laws & Regulations
Is the FRT-15 Legal in Florida? A Dealer’s Breakdown of the Laws
That’s the question I’ve been getting a lot lately. The FRT-15, or Forced Reset Trigger, sits in a legal gray area that’s caused confusion for shooters and dealers alike. Let’s cut through the noise and look at the actual statutes.
The Federal Stance: It’s a Machine Gun
First, you have to understand the federal position. In July 2022, the ATF issued an Open Letter declaring the FRT-15 and similar forced reset triggers to be “machineguns” as defined by the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act (GCA). Their argument hinges on a single function: if a single pull of the trigger initiates an automatic cycle, it’s a machine gun. That’s the core of their interpretation. Possession or transfer of an unregistered NFA item is a federal felony. This isn’t a state-by-state issue to start with; it’s a federal one. You can read a more detailed technical analysis in our complete guide to the FRT-15.
But here’s the thing: that ATF letter isn’t a law. It’s an interpretation. And it’s being challenged in court. Several manufacturers, including Rare Breed Triggers who made the original FRT-15, are in active litigation. So while the ATF says it’s illegal, the final judicial word isn’t in yet.
Florida State Law: The “Machine Gun” Definition
Florida law doesn’t have a separate, specific statute banning forced reset triggers. Instead, it follows the federal definition. Florida Statute 790.001(9) defines a “machine gun” as “a firearm which shoots, or is designed to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.” Sound familiar? It’s virtually identical to the federal definition the ATF is applying.
This is critical. Florida law explicitly incorporates the federal NFA. So if the ATF’s classification holds up in court, then by default, the FRT-15 is illegal under Florida law as an unregistered machine gun. There’s no special Florida exemption. State penalties for possession of a machine gun are severe, including mandatory minimum prison sentences under certain circumstances.
Recent Changes and Enforcement
The landscape shifted with that 2022 ATF letter. Overnight, retailers stopped selling them. The ATF has conducted raids and sent cease-and-desist letters to companies and individuals. In Florida, you can expect state authorities to cooperate with federal enforcement. If you’re caught with one, you’ll likely face both federal and state charges. It’s a double jeopardy of legal trouble you don’t want.
Some folks ask about binary triggers. They’re different. While legalities can change, binaries are generally still recognized as legal at the federal level and in Florida because they require two distinct functions of the trigger (pull and release) for two shots. We’ve done a full FRT-15 vs binary trigger comparison that dives into the mechanical and legal distinctions.
Penalties: What’s at Stake?
Let’s talk numbers. Federally, possession of an unregistered machine gun under the NFA can land you up to 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and forfeiture of the device and any firearm it’s in. Florida penalties are no joke either. Under FS 790.221, simply possessing a machine gun is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Use it in certain crimes? That’s a first-degree felony with even steeper mandatory minimums.
How to Stay Compliant & What Buyers Should Know
Right now, compliance is straightforward: don’t acquire, possess, or install an FRT-15 trigger. It’s that simple. The legal risk far outweighs the novelty. If you already own one, you should consult with a firearms attorney immediately about your options – which are limited and may involve surrendering it to the ATF.
For builders looking for legal performance upgrades, focus on vetted components. A quality mil-spec trigger kit, a good polished sear, or a legal binary system from a reputable maker are your best bets. You can find compliant trigger parts and other essential build components in our firearms parts category. Always verify the current legal status of any fire control component before you buy. The onus is on you.
My advice? Stick with clearly legal parts. The market is full of innovative but compliant gear that won’t put your freedom at risk. For all your build needs, from frames to finished components, browse our full catalog of products that are designed to keep you on the right side of the law. The FRT-15 situation is a perfect example of why you need to stay informed. Laws change, and interpretations shift. What’s “in a gray area” today might be clearly illegal tomorrow.
**Disclaimer:** This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearms laws are complex and subject to change. You are responsible for knowing and complying with all federal, state, and local laws. Always consult with a qualified firearms attorney for legal guidance specific to your situation.
Got questions about compliant builds? P80 Kit is a resource for builders who prioritize doing things right. Stay safe and stay legal.