[Ronbo]

Yep, two major changes in the laws:

Gun control act of '68 was the big one, however possession of "components" were still legal (somewhat) without license.

Then in '86 possession of any component was considered the same as having a un-licensed machine gun. The NRA published articles about Colt AR-15s that were assembled with one or more M-16 parts that a few people got nailed by the BATF over, I checked mine and sure enough there was one M-16 part in it (disconnecter). Needless to say I switched that out pronto.

Even legal transfers can be a big PIA if not impossible, depends on your local sheriff's stance on signing off on them. You also toss out your right to not be searched as the BATF has the right to enter hour home to preform "inspections" with no notice given. (and no warrant needed)

If it's not NFA-listed, stay away.