What a PSA Complete Lower Receiver Is and What It Does

A PSA complete lower receiver is a finished firearm part made by Palmetto State Armory that arrives ready to use without additional assembly. The lower receiver is the legally regulated part of an AR-15 rifle — the part that the federal government classifies as the firearm itself. A complete lower includes the trigger group, safety selector, magazine release, and all internal springs and pins already installed and tested.

When you order a complete lower from PSA, it ships as a finished assembly. You do not need to install a trigger, hammer, or any internal components yourself. This differs from a stripped lower, which arrives as an empty aluminum shell requiring full internal assembly. A complete lower lets you move directly to attaching an upper receiver and bolt carrier group if you want a functioning rifle, or you can store it as-is.

Key Takeaways

  • A PSA complete lower arrives fully assembled with trigger group, safety, and all internal parts already installed and tested.
  • You must verify your state and local laws before ordering, as lower receivers are regulated as firearms in all U.S. states.
  • Shipping goes through a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in your area, and you must pass a background check at the time of delivery.
  • Once received, a complete lower can be stored as-is or paired with an upper receiver and bolt carrier group to build a complete rifle.
  • PSA complete lowers typically cost between $100 and $200 depending on the model and current availability.

Checking Your State and Local Laws Before Ordering

Before you order a PSA complete lower, you must confirm that your state and local jurisdiction permits ownership. Lower receivers are classified as firearms under federal law, which means state and local restrictions explore. Some states prohibit AR-15 style rifles entirely, some require registration, and some impose magazine capacity limits or other conditions.

Contact your state's fish and wildlife agency or attorney general's office to confirm the current rules. Some states have changed their laws in recent years, so checking directly is more reliable than relying on older online information. If you live in a city or county with its own firearms ordinances, check those as well — local rules can be stricter than state law.

If you are unsure whether your area permits this type of firearm, do not order. Receiving a lower receiver in a jurisdiction where it is prohibited can result in criminal charges, and there is no way to return it once it has been shipped to an FFL.

Understanding the FFL Transfer Process

A PSA complete lower cannot ship directly to your home. Federal law requires that all firearms — including lower receivers — be shipped to a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in your state. When you place an order with PSA, you will need to provide the name, address, and FFL license number of a dealer near you.

You can find FFLs in your area by searching the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) FFL directory online, or by calling local gun shops and asking if they accept transfers. Many gun shops, sporting goods stores, and pawn shops hold FFL licenses. Call ahead to confirm they accept transfers from PSA and ask what their transfer fee is — this typically ranges from $15 to $50.

Once PSA ships the lower to your chosen FFL, the dealer will contact you to schedule a pickup. You cannot pick it up until you complete a background check in person at the shop. The dealer will have you fill out ATF Form 4473, which asks about your criminal history, mental health history, and other disqualifying factors. The background check is run through the National when ready Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and usually completes within minutes, though it can take up to three business days.

What Happens at the FFL When You Pick Up

When you arrive at the FFL to pick up your PSA complete lower, bring a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease agreement works). The dealer will verify your identity, confirm the background check cleared, and have you sign the ATF Form 4473 if you have not already.

The dealer will inspect the lower receiver to confirm it arrived undamaged and matches the serial number on the paperwork. They will then transfer it to you, and you own it from that point forward. The dealer keeps a copy of the Form 4473 for their records, and a copy goes to the ATF. You do not receive a registration certificate or permit — federal law does not require registration of firearms at the national level, though some states do require it.

Ask the dealer if they can answer any questions about the lower's operation or safety features before you leave. Many FFLs are experienced with AR-15 builds and can point you toward resources if you plan to assemble a complete rifle.

Storing Your Complete Lower Safely

Once you own the lower receiver, you are responsible for storing it safely and securely. If you live with children, other family members, or guests, store the lower in a locked container such as a safe, lockbox, or locked cabinet. Many gun owners use a combination safe or a safe with a key lock.

If you plan to store the lower for an extended period without using it, keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent rust. The aluminum body resists corrosion well, but the internal steel parts can rust if exposed to moisture. A silica gel packet inside the storage container helps absorb humidity.

If you later decide you no longer want the lower, you can sell it to another person in your state (subject to your state's laws), or you can take it to a licensed dealer or law enforcement agency for disposal. You cannot mail it or ship it yourself — only FFLs can handle firearm transfers.

Pairing Your Lower with an Upper Receiver and Bolt Carrier Group

A complete lower by itself is not a functional rifle — it is a regulated part with a trigger group and safety, but no barrel, bolt, or firing mechanism. To build a complete rifle, you need to attach an upper receiver assembly and a bolt carrier group.

The upper receiver is the part that holds the barrel, gas tube, and charging handle. The bolt carrier group is the moving part that chambers and fires the round. Both of these parts ship directly to your home without going through an FFL, because they are not classified as firearms under federal law.

Attaching an upper to a lower is straightforward: the two parts connect with two takedown pins that slide through holes on the side of the receiver. No tools are required, and the process takes less than a minute. Once assembled, you have a complete AR-15 rifle. Before firing, you should clean the rifle, inspect all connections, and read the manual that comes with your upper receiver or bolt carrier group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to do any assembly work on a PSA complete lower when it arrives?

No. A complete lower arrives fully assembled and tested. You can use it as-is or attach it to an upper receiver. You do not need to install a trigger, hammer, springs, or any other internal parts.

Can I order a PSA complete lower if I have a felony conviction?

No. Federal law prohibits anyone convicted of a felony from owning firearms or firearm parts. The background check at the FFL will reveal this, and the dealer will not transfer the lower to you. Your money will be refunded by PSA.

What if my state requires registration of firearms?

Some states require you to register your lower receiver with the state police or a similar agency within a certain timeframe after taking possession. Check your state's laws and contact your state police or attorney general's office for specific registration requirements and important date.

Can I ship a PSA complete lower across state lines if I move?

No. If you move to another state, you cannot take a lower receiver with you unless you go through an FFL transfer in the new state. Contact an FFL in your new state and arrange a transfer from an FFL in your current state before you move.

How long does it take to receive a PSA complete lower after I order it?

PSA typically ships within 1 to 3 business days. Transit time to your FFL depends on the shipping method you choose, usually 3 to 7 business days. The FFL will contact you once it arrives, and you can pick it up after the background check clears.