Ammo.com provides reliable and up-to-date information on various firearm and ammunition-related topics. You can view the reputable sources used in each state’s section.
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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.” Some exceptions to the law exist for FFL manufacturers, dealers, law enforcement, and/or military.
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California
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Connecticut
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Delaware
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Illinois
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Maryland
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Massachusetts
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New Jersey
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New York
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Rhode Ilsnad (only applies to manufacture, sale and transfer)
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Washington (excludes possession)
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Washington D.C.
List of Federally Banned Guns, Ammo, and Parts
Federally Banned Guns
Exemptions apply to those with tax stamps and background checks.
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Machine guns (excludes those purchased before 1968, lawfully owned before 1986, and with a tax stamp) - Restricted
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Sawed-off shotguns (18” or shorter barrel) - Restricted
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Sawed-off rifles (16” or shorter barrel) - Restricted
Federally Banned Ammo
- Armor-piercing ammunition (capable of penetrating a protective vest when fired from a handgun)
Federally Banned Gun Parts
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Suppressors (excludes those registered with the ATF) - Restricted
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Machine gun conversion kits (parts designed and any combination of parts used solely to convert firearms into machine guns) - Restricted
Complete List of Banned & Restricted Guns, Ammo, and Parts by State
Although some states may not have laws or regulations banning firearms, ammunition, or parts, city and local ordinances may prohibit certain items. Individuals must check such ordinances to discern whether items are legal.
Federal laws apply to all fifty states. Some states have laws that further prohibit violation of federal firearms laws. Most states have exceptions for machine guns, short-barreled long guns, and suppressors that are in compliance with federal law.
The following list includes items that are banned or restricted in each state. Restricted items refer to those that civilians cannot legally purchase, possess, transfer, or manufacture without taking additional steps.
Continue reading Banned & Restricted Guns & Ammo List: A 2025 Review by State on Ammo.com!
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