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Franklin Armory KILLS the NFA SBR Rule with Antithesis

Posted on by The Notorious FDE

Quick Summary:

You can NOW buy a Rifled 7.5 Inch Barrel 5.56 “Antithesis” AR-15 with a STOCK and avoid NFA SBR Registration or Rules! 

Oh, and it comes with an ATF Letter and the decision of a Federal Judge. 

Franklin Armory has begun the demise of the NFA by using their “words” against them and WINNING!!! 

– TJ Kirgin aka Sig Glockincolt, Your Local Warlord.

Now, To the Full Explanation

Franklin Armory has redefined the firearms landscape with its groundbreaking Antithesis™ and Reformation™ firearms, offering enthusiasts a new class of short-barrel firearms free from the restrictive regulations of the National Firearms Act (NFA).  Discover why the Antithesis is making waves in the firearms industry and how it can elevate your shooting experience.

What Are Franklin Armory Antithesis Firearms?

The Franklin Armory Antithesis™ is a revolutionary shoulder-fired firearm designed to fire both single and multiple projectile fixed cartridges through a rifled barrel, available in lengths from 7.5 to 12.5 inches. Unlike traditional rifles or shotguns, the Antithesis is classified simply as a “firearm” under the GCA, not subject to NFA regulations. This means no $200 tax stamp, no Form 4, no fingerprints, and no need to notify the ATF for interstate travel.  WATCH FULL VIDEO EXPALNATION NOW!!!

Key features of the Antithesis include:

  • Chambering: Available in 5.56 NATO, .410 bore shotshells, and .45 Colt cartridges.

  • Barrel Lengths: Ranging from 7.5 to 12.5 inches, offering compact versatility.

  • Multiple Projectile Assemblies: Designed for .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, with 40-grain nickel-plated lead projectiles

Note: Antithesis Multiple Projectile Assemblies are not available in CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, HI, MA, MD, OR, RI, or VT. Always check local laws before purchasing.

The Legal Victory That Changed Everything

On August 29, 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issued an open letter rescinding its 2019 classification of Franklin Armory’s Reformation and Antithesis firearms. This followed a landmark settlement with the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition and Franklin Armory, Inc., after a federal court ruled in their favor (Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, Inc., and Franklin Armory, Inc. v. Pamela Bondi, No. 1:23-cv-00003).

The court found that the ATF exceeded its authority by misclassifying the Antithesis as a short-barreled rifle. The NFA and GCA define a rifle as a firearm that fires only a single projectile through a rifled bore. Since the Antithesis is designed to fire both single and multiple projectile assemblies, it does not fit this definition. As a result:

  • Neither the Antithesis nor Reformation is classified as a rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, or short-barreled shotgun.

  • Both are considered GCA-only firearms, transferable via ATF Form 4473 under the “other firearm” category.

  • No NFA forms or restrictions apply, simplifying purchase, transfer, and interstate transport.

This victory, achieved after eight years and over $1 million in legal expenses, marks a significant step toward restoring Second Amendment liberties.

Why the Antithesis Matters for Gun Owners

The Antithesis offers unparalleled advantages for firearms enthusiasts:

  1. NFA Freedom: No tax stamps, no lengthy approval processes, and no registration lists, making ownership and transport hassle-free.

  2. Versatility: Fires both single projectiles and multiple projectile assemblies, ideal for various shooting scenarios, from home defense to recreational use.

  3. Compact Power: Short barrel lengths (7.5–12.5 inches) provide maneuverability without sacrificing performance.

  4. Legal Clarity: The settlement ensures nationwide applicability, reducing risks of future legal challenges.

Additionally, Franklin Armory’s Reformation™, with its patented straight-cut lands and grooves, offers a unique home defense solution by delivering lethal force with reduced risk of over-penetration in populated areas.

How to Use Antithesis Multiple Projectile Assemblies

For optimal performance, Franklin Armory provides specific instructions for the Antithesis Multiple Projectile Assemblies:

  • Chamfer, Bell, and Lube: Each case mouth must be prepared before inserting the projectile assembly.

  • Gentle Seating: Carefully seat the projectile assembly into the casing to ensure proper function.

  • Compatibility Warning: Not suitable for firearms with suppressors or muzzle brakes.

Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure safety and performance. Visit Franklin Armory’s website for detailed specifications and purchasing options.

The Broader Impact on the Firearms Industry

Franklin Armory’s legal victory extends beyond its own products. The settlement opens doors for other manufacturers and importers to license Antithesis and Reformation technologies, enabling a wider range of NFA-free short-barrel firearms. Franklin Armory is also offering discounted licenses to members of the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition (FRAC), supporting ongoing efforts to challenge the NFA.

This development could reshape the firearms market, fostering innovation and expanding access to compact, high-performance firearms without the burden of NFA compliance. As Franklin Armory stated in their Constitution Day announcement, this is a historic moment for Second Amendment advocates.

See the ATF letter Here