Can I Build an AR-15 in Tennessee?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, you can legally build an AR-15 in Tennessee. The state has no additional restrictions beyond federal law for building rifles from 80% lowers or complete parts kits.
What This Means for You
Tennessee follows federal firearms laws without adding state-level restrictions on home building. You can manufacture a rifle for personal use without requiring federal licensing, serial numbers, or registration. The key requirement is that you build it for your own use, not for sale or distribution.
The Detail
Tennessee gun laws are generally permissive and align closely with federal regulations. Under federal law, you can manufacture a firearm for personal use without an FFL as long as you're legally allowed to possess firearms. This includes building AR-15s from 80% receivers, complete parts kits, or any combination of components.
You don't need to serialize a personally manufactured firearm under federal law, and Tennessee doesn't require it either. However, if you ever decide to sell the rifle later, it must go through proper transfer procedures. The firearm cannot be built with the intent to sell, as that would constitute manufacturing for commercial purposes and require an FFL.
Tennessee has no assault weapon bans, magazine capacity restrictions, or waiting periods that would affect your build. The state also doesn't require registration of firearms or permits to purchase rifles. Your completed AR-15 will be treated the same as any other legally owned rifle in the state.
Standard federal restrictions still apply. You must be 18 or older to build a rifle, legally eligible to possess firearms, and cannot create an NFA item without proper ATF approval. Building a short-barreled rifle or adding a suppressor still requires ATF Form 1 approval and the associated tax stamp, regardless of Tennessee's gun-friendly laws.
Build Impact
Tennessee's permissive laws make it one of the easier states for AR-15 building projects. You can focus on the technical aspects of your build without navigating additional state compliance requirements beyond standard federal law.