Texas-Book-Gun Law Armed And Educated - Flipbook - Page 462
DESTRUCTIVE DEVICES — PART C
27 CFR § 478.11
Any combination of parts either designed or intended for use
in converting any destructive device described in [part] (A) and
(B) of this section and from which a destructive device may be
readily assembled.
The “destructive devices” as defined in the statute are effectively
broken down into three categories: explosive devices, large caliber
weapons, and parts easily convertible into a destructive device.
The first portion of the definition of a destructive device deals with
explosive, incendiary, and poison gas munitions. The definition
specifies that any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb,
grenade, mine, or similar device is a destructive device. In addition,
the definition includes a rocket having a propellant charge of more
than four ounces and a missile (projectile) having an explosive or
incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce. These topics and
the regulations thereof are beyond the scope of this book’s discussion.
The second section of the definition addresses large caliber weapons
and states that any type of weapon that has a bore of more than
one-half inch in diameter is a destructive device with the exception
of shotguns (and shotgun shells) that are suitable for sporting
purposes. Thus, any caliber in a rifle or handgun more than .50
inches or 50 caliber is classified as a destructive device. Shotguns
are exempt from this prohibition on size unless the ATF rules it is
not for sporting purposes. How do you know if a shotgun is suitable
for sporting purposes? The ATF keeps a list, and has issued rulings
classifying specific shotguns as destructive devices because they are
What Is The National Firearms Act? | 451
