You might think the pistol brace debate is over. After all, multiple federal courts struck down the ATF’s 2023 rule that reclassified many braced pistols as short-barreled rifles (SBRs). But according to firearms attorneys and former ATF agents, the scrutiny hasn’t stopped. In fact, some gun owners are still being flagged for federal review, especially when their braced pistols raise red flags in other ways. If you’re running a stabilizing brace in 2026, here’s what you need to know to stay off the radar.
