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Missouri Gun Laws

MO
permissive

Firearm Regulations

Assault Weapon Ban
No
Mag Capacity Limit
No
Permit to Purchase
No
Firearm Registration
No
Concealed Carry
Permitless (19+)
Open Carry
Yes (locality restrictions possible)
Red Flag Law
No
Background Check (Private)
No
NFA Weapons
Unrestricted
State Preemption
Partial

Key Notes

Permitless carry since January 2017. Local governments can regulate open carry. St. Louis bans firearms in city parks.

  • •Permitless (19+) — Adults 19 and older can carry concealed without a permit since January 2017. Missouri uses an unusual 19+ age threshold.
  • •Yes (locality restrictions possible) Open Carry — Open carry is legal statewide, but local governments retain the ability to restrict open carry. St. Louis bans firearms in city parks.
  • •Partial (State Preemption) — Missouri has partial preemption. The state preempts most firearms laws, but localities can regulate open carry and certain aspects of possession on government property.
  • •Unrestricted (NFA) — All NFA items (SBRs, SBS, suppressors, machine guns, destructive devices) are legal with the federal tax stamp.
  • •Carry Permits Available — While not required, Missouri still issues concealed carry permits for reciprocity with other states.

Last updated January 15, 2026

How Missouri Law Affects Your AR-15 Build

Plain-English implications for builders, derived from the regulations above.

Standard AR-15 Configurations Allowed

Missouri does not restrict semi-automatic rifles by feature. Standard AR-15 configurations — including pistol grips, collapsible stocks, threaded barrels, and flash hiders — are legal for sale and ownership.

No Magazine Capacity Limit

Standard 30-round AR-15 magazines (and larger drums) are legal for sale and use in Missouri.

NFA Items Permitted

Missouri allows ownership of federally-regulated NFA items — including suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and short-barreled shotguns (SBS) — with the appropriate ATF tax stamp.

Ready to spec a compliant build? Use the AR Builder to compare parts and live prices across retailers.

Missouri Gun Laws — Frequently Asked Questions

Is the AR-15 legal in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri does not have an assault weapon ban. Standard AR-15 rifles are legal to own, purchase, and build.
What is the magazine capacity limit in Missouri?
Missouri has no magazine capacity limit. Standard 30-round AR-15 magazines and larger capacities are legal.
Does Missouri require a permit to buy a firearm?
No. Missouri does not require a state-level permit or license to purchase a firearm. Federal background-check requirements still apply at licensed dealers.
Can I conceal carry in Missouri?
Missouri concealed carry status: Permitless (19+). No permit is required for residents who can legally own a firearm.
Is open carry legal in Missouri?
Missouri open carry: Yes (locality restrictions possible). Local restrictions may still apply in cities, parks, schools, or government buildings.
Are suppressors and SBRs legal in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri allows ownership of federally-regulated NFA items — including suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and short-barreled shotguns — with the proper ATF tax stamp.
Does Missouri require background checks for private sales?
No. Missouri does not require background checks for private (non-dealer) firearm transfers, though federal law still requires checks for all licensed-dealer sales.

Sources & Further Reading

Verify current Missouri firearm law with these authoritative resources. Laws change — always confirm with primary sources before purchasing or carrying.

MSMT

Legal Disclaimer: This page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. Always verify current regulations with official state sources, a qualified attorney, or local law enforcement before making purchasing or carrying decisions. GunPartPicker is not responsible for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this information.