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Methodology
The word “banned,” as used in this article, relates to firearms, parts, and ammunition that may not be sold, manufactured, or possessed within a jurisdiction or territory. Exceptions do apply in most instances, although the average American citizen does not immediately qualify for an exemption on possession.
Federal firearm laws apply to all 50 states. Each state has its own laws prohibiting the possession or manufacture of certain firearms, ammunition, or parts. Although federal laws apply to all 50 states, some states have their own separate statutes to ensure that prosecution can occur at the state level.
All information in this article was acquired from state statutes, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and updated legal documents.
States With “Assault Weapons” Bans
The legal definition of “assault weapon” varies depending on the state. An “assault weapon” ban details the specific models, specific features, or combination thereof affected by it, regardless of which state it applies to.
The following list includes states that prohibit the sale, transfer, manufacture, and/or possession of semiautomatic rifles and pistols deemed “assault weapons.”
- California
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- Washington (excludes possession)
- Washington D.C.
List of Federally Banned Guns, Ammo, and Parts
Federally Banned Guns
Exemptions apply to those with tax stamps and background checks.
- Machine guns (excludes those purchased before 1968, lawfully owned before 1986, and with a tax stamp)
- Sawed-off shotguns (18” or shorter barrel)
- Sawed-off rifles (16” or shorter barrel)
Federally Banned Ammo
- Armor-piercing ammunition (capable of penetrating a protective vest when fired from a handgun)
Federally Banned Gun Parts
- Suppressors (excludes those registered with the ATF)
- Machine gun conversion kits (parts designed and any combination of parts used solely to convert firearms into machine guns)
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