need some advice regarding legality of a short barrel

[BPTactical]

If that was the case every Smith, AR manufacturer and barrel manufacturer in the country has committed a felony then.
The BATF regs rely heavily on "intent". As in was it a case of willful intent to manufacture a SBR?
The firearm was in a state of repair when the barrel was less than 16". As long as it returned to 16" with a permanently attached muzzle device as soon as the repair was complete there is no crime.
Your "Smith" is incorrect, inexperienced and or paranoid.
You have the wrong Smith.
Take a drive down I-25 for about 40 minutes.
We will get you squared away. Legally.
Besides, with the new block being a clamp on I may be able to do it without having to pull the FH.
I gotz voodoo!