The wait is over, the mystery revealed on The Reformation, Franklin Armory’s ‘not-SBR’ that left everyone guessing.
So, what allows it to defy NFA classification, despite its 11.5″ barrel and collapsible stock? It’s the barrel. Specifically, the Reformation line will feature Franklin’s NRS Barrel Technology. NRS, which stands for “Not a Rifle or Shotgun”, is a barrel with straight cut lands and grooves that retains a standard chamber. Because the barrel doesn’t impart spin on the projectile, the ATF decreed it doesn’t meet the definition of rifling, and as such the Reformation can’t be classified as a rifle or shotgun, short-barred or otherwise, only a ‘firearm’.
What does this do to accuracy? Franklin claims to have tested 4 MOA accuracy with off-the-shelf ammo, but they’ve also developed fin and flare stabilized projectiles and ammo specifically for use with the Reformation, that offers near-MOA performance.
The initial Reformation firearms will be chambered in .300 BLK, with 5.56 to follow shortly after. Models without the BFSIII binary trigger will also be made available.