What is the maximum allowable barrel length for a rifle?

The maximum allowable barrel length for a rifle is 16 inches. This standard is established by federal law under the National Firearms Act (NFA). A rifle is defined as a firearm designed to be fired from the shoulder, with a barrel length greater than 16 inches. If the barrel length is shorter than this minimum requirement, the firearm may be classified as an illegal short-barreled rifle (SBR) without proper registration and tax paid.

This regulation aims to ensure that firearms classified as rifles maintain a certain length which typically contributes to accuracy and ease of handling. Understanding this regulation is crucial for compliance with firearm laws and ensuring responsible ownership.