AR Parts

[Grizzly]

I've had Samson ship hand guards straight to me before. It all depends on the license companies have, is that right?

I'd like one of the new kriss defiance .22 AR15's :)

If the original manufacturer is ITAR registered it's possible to export their parts via an FFL regardless of whether they export directly or not.

[Zilberbak]

Difficult to choose a specific brand as I would prefer to cherry pick across a range of them. I suppose Magpul and Troy come to mind.

There again the UK AR builders can get most of what is out there and have the right credentials to get things imported the only issue is cost as the Dollar equals a Pound in most cases. I am expecting to see more product becoming available as the US have seemed to have discovered "straight pull" as an option around some of the State Compliant legislation. The only threat is any EU legislation that might come in to being.

There again I would want to continue to support some of our UK based AR specialists to keep them in business.

[Blackstuff]

Most AR stuff is available in the UK, especially Magpul, its getting it for a decent price thats the trick. As mentioned if you're lucky you'll get a $=£ price tag, but its usually more, and in some cases a LOT more

[Grizzly]

There again the UK AR builders can get most of what is out there and have the right credentials to get things imported

From my experience I'd disagree, but I'm not complaining. Rather than waste my time trying to source something that doesn't exist i'd rather import knowing I can have what i want through my door within 30 days. The fact that it's often cheaper is a bonus.

Also you don't need any credentials to import non component parts, anyone can go through process.

[Zilberbak]

Have tried numerous times to get things from various outlets Stateside but get knocked back because of ITAR.

Even a humble UTG hand guard is deemed prohibited.

I am surprised that DVOR/Optics Planet haven't bothered to license themselves to supply outside the USA as they would give Brownells UK a run for the money. I had used Brownells US and they were reasonable prices but it is gone a bit silly now with Brownells UK pricing.

Grizzly who do you use for bits and pieces?

[Mattnall]

I've had Samson ship hand guards straight to me before. It all depends on the license companies have, is that right?

I was told Samson had it agreed that handguards were not ITAR restricted (nor float tubes) so they could be exported.

I have also heard tell that many companies don't want to go through all the hassle of getting their name on the approved exporters' list or with the paperwork for individual exports and so don't bother. The expression "ITAR Restricted" usually stops any further questions being asked about shipping stuff, whether it is true or not.

[Jame5m]

Very true Matt,

I've spoken with certain US based manufacturers who refuse to export!

In the long run I think it's better to get it made here!

[safetyfirst]

Breacher has been great to me for getting a few key items through, great service.

[Grizzly]

Have tried numerous times to get things from various outlets Stateside but get knocked back because of ITAR.

Even a humble UTG hand guard is deemed prohibited.

I am surprised that DVOR/Optics Planet haven't bothered to license themselves to supply outside the USA as they would give Brownells UK a run for the money. I had used Brownells US and they were reasonable prices but it is gone a bit silly now with Brownells UK pricing.

Grizzly who do you use for bits and pieces?

That would be the case if you just contacted the company and asked them to ship to the UK without an FFL and paperwork in place. 99% will say no because either the original manufacturer isn't ITAR registered or the original manufacturer is ITAR registered but the retailer can't be bothered to arrange an export licence. Perfectly understandable.

For anything I can't source in the UK (after searching for a week or so) I look to Europe first then the US and go down the export licence route. The extra expense involved means it's best I order more to water down the cost of the licence and shipping, import duty, VAT etc. that's the reason for my original post. But even with the extra cost the prices can be favourable compared to UK. The main reason is you get exactly what you want.

I use LANTAC for bits and pieces if they have the stock. I think their service and prices are excellent but happy to buy from virtually anyone if they have what I want and the price is right.