ORLANDO, Fla. — Companies that make kits that allow buyers to assemble military-style, semi-automatic rifles at home have sprung up across the country, and they pose a challenge to law enforcement agencies.
The guns have no serial numbers or other markings, making them untraceable.
So-called “ghost guns” can be purchased without a background check, which is legal because of the way the federal Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives defines a firearm.
Under the law, no manufacturer-stamped serial number is needed if you make a gun for personal use.
Gun shop owner Jeff Dill told WESH 2 News that he sells about 100 unfinished lower receivers a month.
Dills said most of his customers either like the idea of building their own firearm, or they want to fly under the radar.
Craig Kailimai, assistant special agent in charge of the Tampa field division, for the ATF, said there is reason for concern.
“If you do have criminals who are endeavoring to do that, then that’s always a concern for us,” Kailimai said.
Kailimai said the ATF has not seen vast numbers of ghost guns used in crimes in Florida, but it has happened elsewhere.
by wesh.com