[DesertRhino]

Single shot target pistols like contenders are exempt. This first came up when Olympic (I think) introduced the first AR pistol 20 years back.
But it wasn’t considered readily available. Now 55.6 pistols come from KelTec, and nearly every AR builder.

There is no new law, just the standard one from 20 years back that is now being applied. This sucks, and is obviously vindictive, but its no new law or even an executive order. The main effect will be to end imports of steel core 5.56 and no US military surplus components.

Like I said, there will always be a large supply found near every oppressor. But I still think you are better with 55gr. And if you want heavy bullet accuracy, you really should be using an A-max, a Nosler, or a Sierra and rolling your own accuracy loads that will be far more effective and accurate than 855. ANd if you need true armor piercing, you really shouldn’t be in a 5.56.

[TXDuke]

I agree that single shot is currently exempt, but I don’t think that is the issue.

This is a new BATFE rule that will remove the “sporting purpose” exemption under the AP definition for 5.56mm green tip ammo. This rule change is under the guise that steel core green tip ammo can pierce soft body armor and be found in a handgun platform. However, a steel core is not a requirement under the BATFE definition of AP (See previous post). This exemption is also determined by the US AG and Lynch/Holder are both anti-gun.

Also, as you already stated, larger calibers, virtually any high velocity rounds, can penetrate soft body armor and are available in AR or AK pistol platforms. If 5.56 is banned by this rule change (removal of the exemption), then it is possible that these larger calibers will also be banned before long. That is the concern expressed by this article. It may be a “minor” rule change, but once changed, it could be applied to all rifle calibers larger than .22.

[gundog]

This sucks, and is obviously vindictive, but its no new law or even an executive order.

It also demonstrates how ignorant of the law the anti-gunners are. They could have been all over this and gotten the ban years ago. I always considered the availability of green tip a windfall.