can markings on an AR lower be welded over?
I'm wondering if I get a lower and I want retro markings engraved on it, what are the options. Mainly if it already has markings engraved/stamped and I want them removed.
I think one option I read in a previous post was fill it in with JB Weld and sand it smooth. But then it can't be anodized due to the JB/epoxy stuff. So another method of finish or coating is required.
I know that aluminum can be welded. I have seen lower halves rejoined, sandblasted, and you would never know.
Ultimately, the question is can the surface of a lower (with engraved markings) be made to be smooth as if it had never been marked, so that it can be remarked and anodized (or finished/coated in another way)?
Buy NoDak A1 lower and be done with it. No unsightly logos.
NoDak A1
ETA: Fixed link
Without opening a big can of worms on this topic, please consider the legality of this (I'm not a lawyer). To the letter of the federal law, it may be okay to do as long as you don't alter the serial number (there is a lot of conversation on this topic); but with that said, many, many states directly forbid the altering of any manufactuer's identifying marks. So, even if it's okay in your state, others should consider their state's requirements.
Just from a quick search, here are just a few examples (all from state statute, not internet gossip), I'm sure there are many others:
California (who would have guessed):
http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/dwcl/12090.php
Michigan:
http://law.onecle.com/michigan/750-michigan-penal-code/mcl-750-230.html
Connecticut:
http://www.jud.ct.gov/ji/criminal/part8/8.2-6.htm
Washington:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=9.41.140
If you look at the following link, you'll see why some consider this a gray area within the federal law:
http://www.atf.gov/firearms/guides/importation-verification/firearms-verification-overview.html. The marks are obviously required at the time of manufacture and must be done in a manner that is not "readily obliterated, altered, or removed" which presents the argument they should not be tampered with.
So, don't consider my information above legal advice; it's just some information to consider before going down this road. No further comments on this from me.
John Thomas
Would not want to do anything illegal. But suppose you wanted to "undo" the engravings on an 80% lower?
Much easier just to buy an unengraved 80% lower.
Originally Posted By cb7:
Would not want to do anything illegal. But suppose you wanted to "undo" the engravings on an 80% lower?
Could you elaborate a little on this? What markings are there on the 80%, and what markings are you going for? Is it a braceman lower?
Technically possible, but still not advised. Welding changes the metalurigucal propertys of the forging. If you re-anodize it the welded area will show up discolored. If you need to fill markings, paint is the way to refinish.
LOL, correct me if i,m wrong CB7. I think he means that hypothetically, an 80% lower would have "made up" engravings, so, they could be removed and different ones added? so,,,, what is the difference on doing a "store bought" lower and changing it,,,,,,,,,,,,,(if nobody could tell the difference anyway)? I do think, of course it would highly illegal anyway.
If your changing a store bought lower, you must not attack the manufacturers markings; which include the manufacturers name, city and state, and mostly DO NOT DESTROY THE ORIGINAL SERIAL NUMBER. I know, I'm making it a point, but if you destroy the original SN, you might as well hand your ass over to ATF. You're not even allowed to replace it with the same number, it has to be the original manufacturers marking effort.
cb7,Please explain exactly what marking you ARE talking about. I had real good success making the "fire" marking disappear on both sides of a Tactical Machine 80%er so it could be re-marked "semi".
It is very possible. I've done this a couple time with great results. Didn't like the engraving from the mfr of my 80% lowers, welded over the markings and ground the bead down with a drill press and end mill, then hand sanded and bead blasted the whole receiver to get an even finish. Weld was not visible after anodizing. US Anodizing did my 80% lowers.
