ATF is intending to reclassify armor piercing ammo by considering whether certain projectiles are "primarily intended to be used for sporting purposes." While the following notice is for solicitation of comments from public, non-participation could only be interpreted as agreement.
Previously, ATF stated
As explained above, in 1986, ATF held that 5.56mm projectiles in SS109 and M855 cartridges were exempt. Further, in 1992, ATF held that 30-06 M2AP cartridges were
also exempt. In each case, ATF found that, "it is well documented" that the respective ammunition "has been recognized as being suitable for target shooting with rifles due to its accuracy." Id. These cartridges were originally produced for the military and were only later adopted by civilians for sporting purposes.
However, citing "officer safety" and using increase in sales of AR pistols as excuses, ATF states that these ammunitions "may be used in a handgun other than a single-shot handgun" and withdraw the exception for 5.56mm "green tip" ammuntion.
To submit comment, do before March 16, 2015 in one of following ways
ATF website: APAComments@atf.gov Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: (202) 648 - 9741
Mail: Denise Brown, Mailstop 6N-602, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Enforcement Programs and Services, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 99 New York Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20226: ATTN: AP Ammo Comments
Link to actual memo: http://www.atf.gov/sites/default/files/assets/Library/Notices/atf_framework_for_determining_whether_certain_projectiles_are_primarily_intended_for_sporting_purposes.pdf
