Yes, short-barreled rifles (SBRs) are legal in Texas, but only if they are properly registered under federal law. Texas repealed its state-level prohibition on SBR possession through Senate Bill 1596, which took effect on September 1, 2025. This makes possession of an SBR legal under Texas law, as long as the owner complies with the federal National Firearms Act (NFA) requirements, including paying a tax stamp and completing the registration process.
However, owning or making an unregistered SBR is still a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and Texas law does not protect anyone from violating federal rules. So SBRs are legal, but only legal if following federal paperwork.
What Counts as an SBR in Texas?
A short-barreled rifle is a rifle with:
- a barrel shorter than 16 inches, or
- an overall length under 26 inches, with a stock, and
- designed to be fired from the shoulder.
Common examples:
- AR-15 rifles with 10.5-inch or 12.5-inch barrels
- AK rifles with folding stocks and short barrels
- Converted pistol-braced guns that are now rifles with short barrels
If a gun has a stock and a short barrel, it is an SBR, whether or not it looks like a rifle.
The 2025 Texas Law: SB 1596
Before 2025, Texas Penal Code §46.05 treated SBRs like machine guns and explosive weapons. SB 1596 changed that. It:
Removed SBRs from the list of prohibited weapons
Made SBR possession legal under state law
Did not exempt Texans from federal NFA requirements
Texas essentially acknowledged that SBRs are normal firearms as long as they are federally registered.
This makes Texas one of the most gun-friendly states concerning NFA items.
What You Must Do to Legally Own an SBR
To legally own, build, or convert an SBR in Texas, you must:
1. File ATF Form 1 (making your own) or Form 4 (buying one)
2. Pay the $200 federal tax stamp
3. Pass a federal background check
4. Register the serial number and configuration with the NFA
Once approved, you will receive a tax stamp, which is your legal proof of ownership.
No Texas registration is required. Only the federal paperwork matters.
Unregistered SBRs Are Still Illegal
Even though Texas legalized possession, a gun becomes illegal under federal law if:
- It has a stock and a short barrel without a tax stamp
- You shorten the barrel before approval
- You add a stock to a pistol before approval
Federal Penalty:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Up to $250,000 in fines
- Firearm confiscation
Texas law cannot and does not protect you from federal prosecution.
What About Pistol Braces?
After ATF rule changes (2023–2024), a pistol with a stabilizing brace may be treated as an SBR if it is intended for shouldering.
In Texas:
- If you shoulder it, it may legally be treated as an SBR
- An SBR requires a tax stamp
- A braced pistol without a stamp can be considered an unregistered SBR
Texas does not enforce the brace rules, but federal agents can. The safest approach is either:
- register it, or
- remove the brace and avoid shoulder use.
Can You Travel With an SBR in Texas?
Yes, inside Texas
Once you receive the federal tax stamp, you can drive with your SBR in your vehicle just like any other firearm.
Crossing State Lines
To take your SBR out of Texas, you must notify the ATF first through Form 5320.20.
Failure to notify is another federal offense.
Where SBRs Are Illegal to Carry (Even if Registered)
SBRs, like any firearm, are banned in certain locations:
- Schools & school events
- 51% alcohol bars
- Courtrooms
- Secure airport zones
- Polling places during elections
Texas “constitutional carry” does not apply to SBRs. Only handguns are covered by permitless carry rules, not rifles of any size.
Final Answer
Yes SBRs are legal in Texas, due to SB 1596. But they are only legal if taxed, registered, and approved as required by federal NFA law. Texas allows possession, but federal rules remain fully enforceable.
