We have an MP15-22, we because it is really my wife's gun.

We went to the LGS to check out .22 pistols for her and ended up coming home with the MP15-22 pistol. In anticipation for the reclassification of the brace, I would like to consider a longer barrel for her pistol. A quick search shows high end carbon fiber options.

Is there a reasonable option for a longer barrel for the MP15-22?

Would it be okay to keep the same handguard or should I be looking for a longer replacement handguard also?

Let me rephrase the question. Is the barrel unique to the MP 15-22? Would a 'normal' .22 barrel fit?

The 15-22 barrel is unique due to the threading for the barrel nut.

As of now the only option for an aftermarket barrel is the Volquartsen (drop in) and Taccom (need extension installed), both are carbon fiber wrapped and pricey. Couple of parts houses list OEM barrels but are rarely in stock.

I am not a lawyer, nor do I play one on TV, but the SBA3 brace that comes with the 15-22 is actually the part that may, or may not, get you in trouble. I would consider replacing it before the barrel. The problem with the SBA3 is that it is adjustable like an AR stock. IMHO, find a brace that isn't adjustable and you should be OK.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

I am just taking a wild guess, but the braces are not the 'problem' but the exemption of them allowing what might be considered a short barreled rifle into a pistol, therefore bypassing the need for an NFA stamp.

If I were to replace the stock on my MP15-22, I would instantly be illegal without a stamp even now. I am not sure what changes are in the future but I don't see anything becoming less restrictive.

It does seem silly to pay for an NFA stamp for a .22 but it might be the cheapest option compared to a carbon fiber barrel.

As I understand it, SB Tactical, who makes the SBA3 brace included on the 15-22 did not submit the brace to the ATF for examination, consequently the ATF did not clear it initially. The big problem was that it is an adjustable brace. Currently there are no restrictions, but as you correctly surmised, the ATF is fickle, and they often enforce regulations arbitrarily. You may be right, that it might be better to get the stamp, but you can't use the gun until you receive it.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

As I understand, there are a few like me who will not, under any circumstances, acquiesce to the illegal laws, rules, regulations, etc "enforced" by a then "tyrannical" government such as the one heading that way now. Though it doesn't surprise me, it does disappoint me that so many people are gutless and willing to give up any and all of their God-given and constitutional rights.

In that case, quickly remove those braces and pass them on to those who have a set.

All, the ATF proposed regulation dealing with pistol braces has just been published in the Federal Register and is open for public comment. Do yourself, all shooters, and IIA supporters a huge favor and review the proposal and send your comments to ATF before the close of the comment period (which I believe is 90 days). It is written in such ambiguous and subjective terms that all pistols with braces will likely fall under the NFA. Your comments matter!

Why no propose a swap with someone who has a 15-22 rifle and might want a 15-22 pistol?

Most of us do not relish the idea of going to federal prison nor can we afford the costly legal fees that would be incurred in order to become a "test case." I agree that the proposed regulations are unconstitutional, but the reality is they can and will lock me away for many years.

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Or something like that . . .