ATF Claims Soda-launching “Can Cannon” is Restricted Device
OutdoorHub Reporters 09.23.15
What’s wrong with having a little bit of fun and launching some soda cans? According to a recent determination by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a popular device used to propel cans and similar items into the air is now considered a federally-regulated short-barreled rifle (SBR) or any other weapon (AOW).
Some time ago, X Products, an Oregon-based manufacturer of firearm accessories, unveiled a product called the Can Cannon. The device is essentially a gas ported barrel and pressure tube that can be attached to AR-15s to launch full, unopened 12-ounce soda cans. Propelled by the pressure of of a .223 blank, the Can Cannon has a range of up to 105 yards. The device can also fit other objects such as tennis balls and even shirts.
Sounds like an interesting day at the range, right?
X Products recently warned their customers that the ATF evaluated the Can Cannon and determined that it would be considered a SBR if placed on a rifle receiver, and an AOW if used on a pistol AR. Furthermore, the ATF has defined the Can Cannon as a shotgun. However, the device by itself is not a firearm and is perfectly legal to own. Attaching it to a firearm is illegal unless the user has the proper federal licenses.
“To reiterate, an individual making an NFA class firearm prior to registration and tax paid, would be unlawful. Further, an individual making by modifying, an NFA weapon from a registered NFA weapon; would be required to submit an ATF Form 1 and pay the $200 making tax prior to such making,” the ATF stated in a letter to X Products president James Malarkey.
You can watch the Can Cannon in action here:
X Products stated that it will send a revised design of the Can Cannon for the ATF’s consideration in the hopes that it will address the problem. According to the company, it asked for an evaluation and received a different determination prior to production. X Products reassured its customers that the problem had a “very easy fix” and may just require a component swap later on.
“We had an initial determination letter, this was a second review with a physical sample. There are changes being made for a re-submission and we may have a solution within the next 90-120 days,” X Products wrote on Facebook.
The company also added that the “fun police are no fun,” in regards to the ATF.
