Where Are Glock Switches Legal?

Installing a Glock auto sear, like the G22 .40 S&W Auto Sear, in the wrong jurisdiction can lead to a 10-year federal prison sentence. The legality isn’t about the part itself, but its application under the National Firearms Act (NFA).

Federal Law: The NFA Governs Everything

At the federal level, a Glock switch is classified as a “machinegun” as defined by the NFA. Possession or installation of one without proper registration and a tax stamp is a felony. This isn’t a gray area. The ATF’s position is that any device designed to convert a semi-automatic firearm to fire more than one shot with a single function of the trigger is a machinegun. This includes 3D-printed designs, milled aluminum units, or even a simple piece of shaped metal. The only legal path is to have a pre-1986 registered transferable machinegun receiver, which a standard Glock is not. Glockswitchforsale provides components for legal builds in compliant states and for qualified entities under the NFA.

State-Level Bans: The “Possession” Offense

Beyond federal law, numerous states have enacted their own statutes explicitly banning the possession of “machinegun conversion devices” (MCDs). These laws often carry severe penalties independent of federal charges. States like California, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and Washington have specific codes making mere possession of an auto sear a state felony. In these jurisdictions, it doesn’t matter if you haven’t installed it; having the component is the crime. Before considering any purchase from our Auto Sears collection, you must verify your state’s specific penal code regarding MCDs. Ignorance is not a defense.

States with Explicit MCD Prohibitions

The legal risk is highest in states that have codified bans. For example, California Penal Code § 32625 prohibits possession of any “multiburst trigger activator.” New York Penal Law § 265.00(22) defines a “machine-gun” to include a “conversion kit.” In Illinois, 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(7) makes it unlawful to possess any “parts for use in converting any firearm into a machine gun.” These are just a few. Other high-risk states include Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Hawaii. If you reside in one of these states, purchasing a switch is not just inadvisable—it’s a direct path to criminal liability. We enforce strict geographic sales restrictions at checkout for this reason.

Where Can You Legally Own a Registered Auto Glock?

Legal ownership is only possible with a properly registered NFA item. This requires an individual to find a pre-1986 transferable Glock 18 (the factory full-auto model) or a registered drop-in auto sear (RDIAS) specifically registered for a Glock frame. These are exceedingly rare and cost tens of thousands of dollars. The process involves submitting ATF Form 4, passing an extensive background check, paying a $200 tax, and receiving approval from your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO). This must be done in a state that does not prohibit NFA items. Even then, items like our Universal Glock Auto Switch Kit are not for use in these firearms unless you are an SOT manufacturer.

Practical Advice for Enthusiasts

For the vast majority of shooters, a full-auto Glock is not a legal option. Focus on high-quality aftermarket parts that enhance performance within the law. Upgrading your connector, installing a polished safety plunger, or using a Extended 33-Round Glock Magazine for competition are all legal avenues. If your interest is in legal full-auto ownership, start by researching NFA trusts and the process for purchasing a transferable machinegun. Glockswitchforsale is a resource for knowledgeable builders who operate within the full scope of federal and state law.

FAQ: Glock Switch Legality

What state is glock switches legal?

No state allows the unregulated possession of a Glock switch. Legal possession is only possible under the federal National Firearms Act (NFA) with a registered, transferable machinegun or registered sear. Several states, including California and New York, have additional laws that explicitly ban possession of the device itself, regardless of NFA status.

What country is glock switch legal?

Some countries with less restrictive firearm laws may permit ownership of full-auto firearms or conversion devices to licensed individuals. For example, certain European nations like the Czech Republic or Switzerland may allow them under a specific license. However, in the United States, they are strictly controlled under the NFA and are illegal to possess without proper federal registration and tax payment.