Is it legal to use an unattached shoulder stock to support a revolver or pistol or do I need a federal permit?

I designed a light weight shoulder stock/frame that would have an flat aluminum loop/holder in the front with a shape to match the contour of a handgun handle. Polymer clay could be molded arround the edges enabling a handgun to fit in it without slipping sideways or moving up and down.

When I told a local gun shop of my idea.... they said I could be jailed for a minimum of 5 years and fined $10,000.00 because I needed a $200.00 Federal Permit to use such a thing and suggested I contact the ATF.

Several months ago I sent emails and letters to the ATF and have not had any response.

Any help/contacts would be greatly appreciated. Before I build a prototype, I'd sure like to know what I need to know.
Thanks,
Mike

You are fine with a shoulder stock as long as the barrel is at least 16" long. Some states, NY in particular, don't allow long barreled (16") handguns for hunting.

The term "attached" may have bearing here. Not sure how deep the description goes but if the gun can be suspended by holding the shoulder stock that would probably be considered attached. If you want to use a brace against your shoulder to steady your shot that the gun would in some way slide into, without being attached, you may be legal. Very fine line to cross, IMO.

S4s4,
That is a bummer.... but, hey many thanks.

PS S4s4u,
It's back to building a folding tripod for use while sitting.... as stable as a shooting bench! Even has an attachable front campoflage cloth... camo in Spring/Summer/Fall, white in winter.
Watch out Coyotes!
Again many thanks!
Mike

Well, y'know if you put a shoulder stock on your handgun it then is no longer a handgun, soooo...... what's the point really ;-)

Many years ago I had the idea I wanted to build an XP-100 type pistol out of a Swedish Mauser. I called the DOJ and laid the idea on one of their agents. He said no way, no how. If a gun began life as a rifle, it will always be a rifle and a pistol will always be a pistol. Converting one to the other will land you right in federal prison. He said you can get a permit to build either from scratch for $200 and a bunch of red tape but converting is a crime. I promtly dropped the idea. The guy was real nice and said he was there to keep people from getting themselves in trouble. If you have questions, call them don't email.
Steve

I believe it is legal to make a rifle out of a pistol but not the other way around.