Gun Laws / 50 states / Reviewed September 16, 2026

Firearm Laws by State

Know the rules before you build. Pick a law to color the map, then tap your state for what it means for the parts you can legally own.

Traveling? The Gun Travel Checker checks every state on your route for what you are bringing. Federal length rules and fast trigger fitment live in the tools: barrel and overall length checker · FRT and binary trigger picker · all Gun Tools

Terms and definitions

Assault Weapon Ban: A state law that prohibits the sale, manufacture, or possession of firearms classified as 'assault weapons' — typically semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, or pistols with specific features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, threaded barrels, or detachable magazines.
Mag Capacity Limit: A restriction on the maximum number of rounds a detachable magazine can hold. Common limits are 10 or 15 rounds. Some states ban only the sale of high-capacity magazines while allowing possession of existing ones.
Permit to Purchase: A license or permit issued by the state that must be obtained before buying a firearm. Requirements vary but may include background checks, fingerprinting, safety courses, or waiting periods before the permit is granted.
Firearm Registration: A requirement that firearm owners register their weapons with a state or local agency. Registration typically records the make, model, serial number, and owner. Some states register only handguns; a few register all firearms.
Concealed Carry: The practice of carrying a concealed firearm in public. 'Permitless' (constitutional carry) means no permit required. 'Shall Issue' means the state must issue a permit if the applicant meets the criteria. 'May Issue' gives authorities discretion to deny permits.
Open Carry: The practice of carrying a firearm visibly in public (e.g., in a belt holster). Some states allow open carry without a permit, some require a license, and others ban it entirely. Localities may have additional restrictions.
Red Flag Law: Also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO). Allows family members, law enforcement, or others to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from someone deemed a danger to themselves or others. The subject can contest the order in a hearing.
Background Check (Private): Whether the state requires a background check for private (non-dealer) firearm sales or transfers. Federal law only mandates checks for sales through licensed dealers (FFLs). 'Universal' background check states extend this to all or most private transactions.
NFA Weapons: Items regulated under the federal National Firearms Act — including short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBS), suppressors (silencers), machine guns, and destructive devices. Even where federally legal with a tax stamp, individual states may ban some or all NFA items.
State Preemption: A state law that prevents cities, counties, or other local governments from passing their own firearm regulations. In 'full preemption' states, only the state legislature can enact gun laws. 'Partial' preemption allows some local regulation.

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.

Firearm Laws by State

Short barreled rifle laws by state

All 50 states