Even ATF Now Admits Inert RPGs—
Including Adamiak's—Are Not Firearms

ATF agents took two inert RPGs they had seized from Patrick "Tate" Adamiak's home, inserted an RPG training device and a bunch of additional parts, fired a few 7.62x39mm rounds and classified them as Destructive Devices. Were it not for these charges, Adamiak would be a free man.

However, the agents never said in their reports or courtroom testimony that the RPG training device will fire rounds on its own—without an RPG even in the room. Also, agents never mentioned that the ATF itself classifies the RPG training device as a firearm, because it can shoot rifle rounds regardless of whether it's attached to an RPG.

In a letter sent to someone not involved in Adamiak's case, The ATF explained the RPG training devices.

"The sub-caliber RPG-7 training devices previously evaluated, like the ones you mention, typically contain a barrel chambered in 7.62x39mm, possess a firing mechanism including a striker, sear, and trigger device. Its intended use is as a subcaliber insert training device for the RPG-7 anti-armor projector. However, the design of the device also allows it to be fired without the use of an RPG-7," the ATF said in the letter. …