I started target shooting at an early age, but did not start collecting firearms until after college. Before starting my collection, I read many books and magazines on firearms. For some strange reason the two firearms that fascinated me the most were the HK-91 and Steyr Aug. While the Steyr was a fine firearm, I liked the modularity of the Heckler and Koch 9X series of rifles. I was unable purchase an HK when I started my collection. The price was far too high. When the first low-priced clones were released, I jumped at the chance to get an HK 9X style rifle. I bought a PARS International FMP XG3S. I wanted an HK-91 very badly, but at one third the cost, I bought the FMP.

    After about a year of shooting my XG3S, I decided to make some cosmetic changes to the rifle. I went to the Knob Creek Machinegun shoot. It was the best place for those who shoot and collect HK firearms to find parts and accessories. I wanted to purchase every component. I bought a few things and got a few ideas. I had also made up my mind, I was going to do this by the book. So, I called the ATF. Once again, for no reason, I called the Washington DC Technical branch. This lucky for me. The agent I spoke with was VERY knowledgable. I had many interesting conversations him. He let me know, VERY CANDIDLY, what was legal and illegal. He suggested that I write out and send in any questions that I had for him that I was going to act on. This way I would have a document stating the legality of my modification at that time.