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troglodyte wrote:Does it have a stock (or can accept a stock)? No = pistol, Yes = Rifle.

A virgin lower that hasn't been configured as a rifle can have anything you want on it, so if you purchase a new complete lower with a stock on it, you can pull the stock off and install a brace, saddle or whatever non-stock you want and configure it as a pistol (what your FFL marks it down as doesn't matter AFAIK, but a new lower should be "other" and not pistol or rifle).

Being able to accept a stock isn't a problem as most pistol buffer tubes can accept some form of aftermarket stock. The concern is that the ATF could decide that you had "constructive intent" if you had a bare carbine buffer tube and a stock laying by it. It's bull, but can happen... but unlikely except as an add-on charge to something else.

If it is a pistol have vertical fore grip? No = still a pistol, Yes = Now an Any Other Weapon = tax stamp

A pistol with an OAL over 26" can have a VFG legally, as it's considered just a firearm and not a handgun.

BTW, a rifle can't legally be changed to a pistol configuration. Once a rifle, always a rifle (SBR is an option though).

EDIT: The above meaning an original rifle; a pistol converted to a rifle can return to a pistol configuration (because our laws make sense ).

What do you mean by unwieldy? I have several AR pistols and they handle like my rifles. If anything they're easier to maneuver.

anygunanywhere wrote:Holsters might be a problem.

Pfft.