FIREARM OWNERSHIP RESTRICTIONS BY STATE

Firearm, ammunition, and magazine laws vary by state and, in some cases, by local jurisdiction. The information below provides a general reference for common restrictions affecting firearm purchases, transfers, ammunition sales and shipments, and magazine capacity. See the individual state sections for more detailed information, including specific requirements, exemptions, pending legislation, and litigation status.

Magazine Capacity Restrictions by State (Quick Reference)

Firearm magazine capacity laws vary by state. The information below provides a general reference for states with magazine capacity restrictions. Local jurisdictions may have additional requirements. See the individual state sections below for more detailed information.

10-Round Magazine Limits

California
Connecticut
Hawaii (handguns only)
Illinois (long guns only)
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Jersey
New York
Vermont (long guns only)
Washington
Washington, DC

15-Round Magazine Limits

Colorado (statewide, with exceptions)
Illinois (handguns)
Vermont (handguns only)

Other Limits

Vermont: Long guns are limited to 10 rounds; handguns are limited to 15 rounds.
Colorado: Rifles and pistols are limited to 15 rounds. Shotgun capacity is limited to 8 shotgun shells or the applicable 28-inch shell-length restriction. Exceptions apply for tubular magazines on .22 caliber firearms and lever-action firearms.

Important: Local jurisdictions may have additional restrictions. See the state-specific sections below for additional requirements, exemptions, pending legislation, and litigation. Firearm laws change frequently. This guide includes known restrictions and requirements by jurisdiction, including recent legislation, effective dates, and laws currently affected by litigation. Always verify current requirements before completing a firearm transaction.

STATES AND CITIES THAT RESTRICT AMMUNITION SALES AND SHIPPING

Alaska: Ammunition shipping prohibited due to state restrictions.
Annapolis, Maryland: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island, New York: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
California: Online ammunition purchases are allowed only through California-approved vendors. Ammunition must generally ship to a licensed California FFL, and buyers must satisfy applicable state background-check and eligibility requirements.
Connecticut: Ammunition sales and shipments are restricted.
Chicago, Illinois and Cook County, Illinois: Ammunition sales and shipments are prohibited.
Hawaii: Ammunition shipping prohibited due to state restrictions.
Illinois: A FOID card is required to purchase ammunition, and ammunition shipments are subject to Illinois requirements.
Los Angeles, California: Ammunition shipping prohibited.
Massachusetts: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
New Jersey: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
New York: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL. New York City has additional restrictions.
New York City: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Rhode Island: Ammunition shipments are subject to state restrictions and applicable permits or qualifying certifications.
Washington, DC: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
APO and FPO Addresses: Ammunition shipping prohibited.
USPS PO Boxes: Ammunition shipping prohibited.

INTERSTATE FIREARM TRANSFERS

Federal law generally permits an FFL to transfer a complete rifle or shotgun to a resident of another state when the transfer is conducted in person and complies with applicable federal law and the laws of both states.
This general rule does not apply in the same manner to handguns, frames, receivers, or other regulated firearms. Some states impose additional restrictions on interstate transfers even when federal law would otherwise permit the transaction.
Oregon has specific statutory provisions concerning certain out-of-state rifle and shotgun purchases, and other states may impose additional requirements.
Always verify the requirements applicable to the specific firearm, purchaser, dealer location, destination state, and type of transfer before completing an interstate transaction.

FEDERAL LEGAL UPDATES

Federal Handgun Transfers to Buyers Under 21

On September 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice concluded that the federal prohibition on licensed firearms dealers transferring handguns to otherwise lawful adults between 18 and 20 years old is unconstitutional as applied to that group and stated that the federal prohibition may not be criminally enforced.

State minimum-age requirements still apply. ATF and NICS implementation guidance should be monitored. Dealers should not assume that this development immediately changes established transfer procedures or permits handgun transfers to purchasers under 21 in every jurisdiction.

Interstate Handgun Purchases

On September 18, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled in Elite Precision Customs v. ATF that the federal prohibition on direct interstate handgun purchases is unconstitutional.

The ruling does not by itself mean that established interstate handgun transfer procedures should immediately change. The mandate, scope of the decision, further proceedings, and ATF guidance should be monitored before changing established interstate handgun transfer procedures.

STATE-BY-STATE FIREARM RESTRICTIONS

CALIFORNIA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons and Restricted Firearms: California prohibits assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features. Ghost guns and certain unserialized firearms are also prohibited.
Effective January 1, 2026, AB 1263 and SB 704 establish additional requirements involving firearm precursor parts, accessories, machines, unattached barrels, notices, purchaser verification, and related transactions.
Effective July 1, 2026, AB 1127 prohibits licensed dealers from selling, offering, exchanging, giving, transferring, or delivering a semiautomatic machinegun-convertible pistol.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Handgun Roster: California maintains a state-approved handgun roster that limits which new handguns may be sold by licensed dealers.
Forced Reset Triggers: California restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms. A California Firearm Safety Certificate is generally required.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed California FFL. California requires a 10-day waiting period for firearm transfers. Dealers cannot complete the transfer until California Department of Justice approval is received. State approval may take up to 30 days.
Out-of-State Purchases: California residents generally may not purchase firearms or ammunition directly from out-of-state sources.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require a background check through a California FFL. Ammunition shipments must generally go through a licensed California vendor unless the recipient qualifies for an exemption, such as holding an FFL03 and Certificate of Eligibility. Direct shipment of ammunition from another state to a typical California resident remains prohibited.
Firearm Barrel Restrictions: Effective January 1, 2026, SB 704 establishes additional requirements regarding firearm barrel transfers. Standalone firearm barrels may not be sold or transferred except through required dealer procedures and applicable exemptions.
New Resident Registration: New residents bringing firearms into California must register them within 60 days as required by state law.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms with a frame or receiver may require a DROS transaction and background check if they are breech-loading or capable of accepting, or being converted to accept, conventional ammunition cartridges currently available in the United States. True antique firearms are exempt.
Dealer Requirements: California firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with applicable state licensing, training, certification, identity verification, purchaser acknowledgment, and other regulatory requirements.

COLORADO FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Colorado has certain assault weapon restrictions and local limitations. Denver County has additional restrictions on assault weapons. Local regulations may vary by jurisdiction.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 15 rounds, excluding tubular magazines for .22 caliber firearms and lever-action firearms. Shotgun capacity is limited to 8 shotgun shells or the applicable 28-inch shell-length restriction. Unincorporated Boulder County has a 10-round magazine capacity restriction, with enforcement currently affected by litigation.
Forced Reset Triggers: Colorado restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must generally be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms. Exceptions apply for certain active-duty military members and certified peace officers between 18 and 20 years old for qualifying long-gun purchases.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Dealers must receive a "Proceed" or approval confirmation before completing a transfer. Colorado requires a mandatory three-day waiting period for firearm transfers. Certain statutory exceptions may apply.
Ammunition Requirements: Effective July 1, 2026, HB 25-1133 establishes additional ammunition purchase, age, storage, and delivery requirements, with exceptions including certain rimfire ammunition.
Specified Semiautomatic Firearms: Effective August 1, 2026, SB 25-003 establishes additional requirements for the purchase and transfer of specified semiautomatic firearms. The law applies generally to specified semiautomatic rifles and shotguns with detachable magazines and certain gas-operated semiautomatic handguns with detachable magazines. Statutory exceptions and eligibility requirements apply.
Not every semiautomatic firearm is necessarily covered by the specified semiautomatic firearm requirements. Required safety training and eligibility requirements may apply before a qualifying firearm can be transferred.
Out-of-State Transfers: Certain exceptions may allow qualifying purchasers to obtain specified semiautomatic firearms from an out-of-state dealer when the transaction complies with applicable federal and state laws.
Taxation: A 6.5% excise tax applies to retail sales of firearms, ammunition, and firearm parts.

CONNECTICUT FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Connecticut restricts certain semiautomatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns classified as assault weapons. Restricted firearms may include semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines and features such as folding or telescoping stocks, pistol grips, forward grips, flash suppressors, threaded barrels, grenade or flare launchers, and other specified characteristics. Semiautomatic shotguns with detachable magazines, revolving cylinders, or folding or adjustable stocks are also restricted.
Handgun Restrictions: Connecticut restricts certain handguns with specified features, including threaded barrels, second hand grips, barrel shrouds, weights over 50 ounces, and magazine capacities over 10 rounds. Handguns are subject to state registration and permit requirements.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds. Semiautomatic shotguns with fixed magazines are limited to 5 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: Connecticut restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A state-issued permit to purchase or Certificate of Eligibility is required for handguns. Ammunition purchases require an ammunition certificate or applicable state-issued firearm credential. Ammunition purchasers must be at least 18 years old.
Transfers and Waiting Periods: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL.. Out-of-state long-gun transfers are subject to a two-week waiting period unless the purchaser qualifies for an exemption, including law enforcement, a valid hunting license, or a carry permit. State approval for certain transfers may take up to 60 days.
Ammunition Requirements: Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted. Certain ammunition purchases, including black powder supplies, may require a hunting license, pistol permit, or eligibility certificate.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are not generally restricted; however, a hunting license, pistol permit, or eligibility certificate may be required to purchase black powder ammunition or supplies.
Prohibited Firearms and Devices: Connecticut prohibits certain firearms and devices, including stripped or complete receivers and Franklin Armory Binary Triggers.

DELAWARE FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Delaware prohibits the sale and transfer of most assault weapons as defined by state law. These restrictions include many AR-15, AK-style, and other semiautomatic firearms that meet the state's prohibited firearm definitions.
Ghost Guns: Firearm frames, receivers, and unserialized firearms that do not comply with Delaware law may not be sold or transferred.
Magazine Capacity: Firearms shipped to Delaware must not include magazines capable of holding more than 17 rounds. Certain concealed carry permit holders may qualify for an exemption under state law.
Age Requirements: Federal law limits handgun transfers by licensed firearms dealers to individuals who are at least 21 years of age. Delaware law regarding firearm purchases by individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 has been the subject of recent court decisions.
Court Status: The status of Delaware litigation involving purchases by individuals under 21 should be verified before completing a transfer. The federal developments concerning under-21 handgun transfers are separate from Delaware state requirements.
Transfers and Background Checks: All private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. In-state firearm transfers require approval from the Delaware State Police and may take up to 25 days to process.
Forced Reset Triggers: Delaware prohibits or significantly restricts Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs) and other devices intended to substantially increase a firearm's rate of fire.

FLORIDA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Florida requires a three-day waiting period following the purchase of a firearm or until completion of the required background check and receipt of approval, whichever occurs later. In Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, the waiting period is extended to five days. Weekends and legal holidays are excluded. The waiting period does not apply to Florida Concealed Weapon License holders or individuals who have completed a 16-hour hunter safety course and possess a valid hunter safety certification card when purchasing qualifying rifles or shotguns. Certain hunting license exemptions may also apply.
Forced Reset Triggers: Florida restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm, including Forced Reset Triggers and similar trigger activators.
Transfers: Private firearm transfers must comply with applicable licensing and background check requirements. Certain statutory exemptions may apply to the waiting period.

HAWAII FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Hawaii restricts certain assault pistols, including AR and AK-style pistols.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for handguns. There is no magazine capacity limit for long guns under the state restriction described here.
Forced Reset Triggers: Hawaii restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms and ammunition. A permit to purchase is required for firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Hawaii requires a minimum 14-day waiting period after submitting a permit application before a firearm transfer may be completed.
Firearm Registration: All firearms must be registered with the Chief of Police. Firearms brought into the state must be registered within three days.
Background Check Exemption: In-state purchasers may qualify for a NICS background check exemption with a qualifying concealed handgun permit or Permit to Acquire.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under Hawaii law.
Minimum Melting Point Requirements: Dealers must avoid transferring handguns with cast zinc or "pot-metal" frames that fail the 800°F test.

ILLINOIS FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Illinois restricts certain assault weapons, including AR-15-style rifles and other semiautomatic rifles and handguns with specified features. Certain restricted features may include threaded barrels, shrouds, detachable magazines outside the pistol grip, and other characteristics defined under state law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for handguns.
Forced Reset Triggers: Illinois restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Firearm Parts and Devices: Certain devices and modifications that increase the rate of fire, including bump stocks, trigger cranks, and binary trigger systems, are prohibited.
Purchasing Requirements: A valid Illinois Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card is required to purchase or possess firearms and ammunition. Illinois residents may generally purchase firearms only from Illinois dealers or dealers in contiguous states.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. A 72-hour waiting period applies to firearm purchases.
Ammunition Requirements: A FOID card is required for ammunition purchases and shipments. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under Illinois law. A FOID card and required state background check process apply.
Firearm Construction Restrictions: Certain unfinished receivers and other components used to create unserialized firearms may be restricted under Illinois law.

MAINE FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Waiting Period: Maine enacted a 72-hour waiting period for firearm purchases effective August 9, 2024.
A preliminary injunction issued February 13, 2025 suspended enforcement of the waiting-period requirement. The statute has not been repealed, and the injunction currently controls enforcement.
LD 208, which would have addressed the waiting-period law, did not become law in 2026.
Because the statute remains in effect while enforcement is subject to the injunction, the current status of the injunction should be verified before completing a Maine transfer.

MARYLAND FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Maryland prohibits or restricts certain assault pistols and assault rifles. Semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines may be prohibited when equipped with certain combinations of features, including folding stocks, flash suppressors, grenade or flare launchers, and other restricted characteristics. Certain semiautomatic shotguns with prohibited features are also restricted.
Magazine Capacity: Firearms with detachable magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds may not be sold, transferred, or possessed in Maryland.
Handgun Requirements: Maryland maintains an approved handgun roster that limits which handguns may be transferred within the state.
Purchasing Requirements: A valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is generally required before purchasing a handgun, unless an exemption applies.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Maryland requires a seven-day waiting period for handgun transfers. Regulated firearms must also be reported to the Maryland State Police through the required registration process, including Form 77R.
Purchase Limits: Maryland generally limits purchases of regulated firearms to one firearm per 30-day period.
Rapid-Fire Devices: Maryland prohibits certain rapid-fire trigger activators and similar devices designed to increase a firearm's rate of fire. Forced Reset Triggers and comparable devices may be restricted.
Handgun Construction Requirements: Maryland restricts the transfer of certain handguns manufactured with frames or receivers made from low-melting-point materials that do not meet the state's minimum 800°F melting point standard.

MASSACHUSETTS FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Massachusetts prohibits assault weapons and restricts certain semiautomatic centerfire rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features.
Restricted Components: Certain firearm parts and components, including barrels, conversion kits, and parts designed to create prohibited firearms or undetectable firearms, are subject to restrictions.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition or more than 5 shotgun shells are restricted.
Forced Reset Triggers: Massachusetts restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A Massachusetts Firearms Identification Card (FID) or License to Carry (LTC) is required to purchase firearms. Residents generally cannot purchase firearms out of state.
Certain semiautomatic rifles and shotguns require an LTC instead of an FID.
Ammunition Requirements: An FID or LTC is required for ammunition purchases. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms with a frame or receiver require an FID or LTC to purchase. A background check is required if the firearm is breech-loading or capable of accepting, or being converted to accept, conventional ammunition cartridges currently available in the United States. True antique firearms are exempt from FID, LTC, and Form 4473 requirements.
Minimum Melting Point: Massachusetts has a 900°F minimum-melting-point requirement applicable to certain handguns.

MICHIGAN FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Purchasing Requirements: Michigan requires a License to Purchase (LTP) for handgun purchases unless the purchaser qualifies for an exemption, such as holding a valid Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Background Checks: Certain purchasers holding a valid Michigan LTP or CPL may qualify for an exemption from the federal National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) requirement when permitted under applicable law. Purchasers must still meet all state and federal eligibility requirements.
Transfers: Private party firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL when required by state and federal law. All firearm transfers remain subject to applicable eligibility and recordkeeping requirements.
Safe Storage Requirements: Michigan requires firearm sales to include a locking device to help ensure safe storage.
Rapid-Fire Devices: Michigan's current treatment of Forced Reset Triggers and similar devices should be distinguished from pending legislation.
Senate Bill 224 (SB 224), which would expressly address certain bump stocks and multiburst trigger activators, passed the Michigan Senate on June 25, 2025 but has not been enacted.
Separately, the Michigan Attorney General maintains that existing Michigan law independently prohibits Forced Reset Triggers or firearms equipped with Forced Reset Triggers.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms may not be transferred to individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms under applicable law.

MINNESOTA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Minnesota restricts certain semiautomatic rifles and pistols. A Permit to Purchase or valid Concealed Carry Permit may be required for transfers of certain semiautomatic military-style firearms from FFLs.
Handgun Restrictions: Minnesota restricts the transfer of certain handguns made with materials that do not meet state requirements for melting point, tensile strength, or material density.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private party transfers involving semiautomatic pistols and assault weapons must be completed through a licensed FFL or applicable Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO). Waiting periods or delays ranging from 7 to 30 days may apply to certain handgun and semiautomatic military-style firearm transfers.
Purchasing Requirements: A Permit to Purchase or valid Concealed Carry Permit is required for certain assault weapon transfers from FFLs.
Forced Reset Triggers: Minnesota restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be restricted.
Handgun Construction Requirements: Minnesota restricts the transfer of certain handguns made with low-strength materials, including cast zinc or similar materials that fail the state's 1,000°F minimum melting point requirement.

NEBRASKA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Handgun Purchasing Requirements: Nebraska requires a valid Handgun Purchase Permit or Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) for handgun purchases from licensed firearms dealers.
Background Checks: Nebraska concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years, or a valid Certificate to Purchase, may qualify as an exemption from a NICS check when permitted under federal law.

NEVADA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Background Checks: Nevada concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years may qualify as an exemption from a NICS check when permitted under federal law.
Forced Reset Triggers: Nevada restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be restricted under Nevada law.

NEW JERSEY FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: New Jersey prohibits assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: New Jersey restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A Permit to Purchase is required for firearms. A Firearm Purchaser Identification Card (FPID) is required for handgun ammunition purchases.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL. New Jersey requires a seven-day waiting period for handgun transfers beginning from the date the handgun permit application was submitted.
All firearm transfers require a "Proceed" approval from the New Jersey State Police NICS system before completion.
Handgun Purchase Limits: New Jersey limits handgun purchases to one handgun per 30-day period.
Firearm Registration and Transfer Restrictions: Handgun registration is required. Residents cannot transfer firearms out of state.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require the applicable state permits or identification credentials. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under New Jersey law and are subject to applicable firearm regulations.
Court Watch: On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, sitting en banc, ruled in Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs v. Platkin that New Jersey's semiautomatic rifle and large-capacity magazine restrictions were unconstitutional. The mandate has been stayed while further review is pursued. The challenged restrictions therefore remain enforceable while the litigation continues.

NEW MEXICO FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Waiting Period: New Mexico's seven-day waiting-period requirement is currently unenforceable due to preliminary injunctive relief in Ortega v. Grisham. The operative injunction and current guidance should be verified before completing transfers.
Private Party Transfers: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL.

NEW YORK FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: New York restricts assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: New York restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A permit is required for handguns and semiautomatic rifles. Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase semiautomatic firearms.
Handgun Restrictions and Registration: Handgun registration is required. Additional restrictions may apply in local jurisdictions, including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany.
Transfer Delays: New York State Police approval may take up to 30 days. If a delayed response is received, the dealer may not complete the transfer unless notification is received from the New York State Police that the transfer is permitted or the applicable waiting period has expired.
Prohibited Firearms and Devices: New York prohibits certain firearms and firearm-related items, including Franklin Armory Binary Triggers, stripped or complete receivers, and home-built firearms.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require a background check. Direct shipment of ammunition and out-of-state ammunition purchases are prohibited.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under New York law and are subject to applicable firearm regulations.
Firearm Storage: New York SAFE Act storage requirements apply to firearm storage.

OHIO FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are considered firearms under Ohio law for purposes of prohibited-person restrictions. Individuals prohibited from possessing firearms may not purchase or possess black powder firearms.
Background Checks: Ohio concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years may qualify as an exemption from a NICS check when permitted under federal law.

OREGON FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Purchasing Requirements: Oregon's Permit to Purchase requirement is not currently operative. HB 4145 moved the operative date to January 1, 2028.
Magazine Capacity: Oregon's Measure 114 permit-to-purchase and magazine-capacity provisions are not currently operative. HB 4145 moved the operative date to January 1, 2028. Litigation continues, and current court orders and Oregon State Police guidance should be monitored.
Transfers: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Buyers must complete required state transfer documentation and provide a thumbprint to the Oregon FFL as required.
Out-of-State Purchases: Oregon law contains provisions concerning purchases of rifles and shotguns by Oregon residents in other states. Such transactions remain subject to federal law and the laws of both states. The consultant guidance notes that Oregon's contiguous-state language alone does not necessarily prohibit a noncontiguous purchase absent an express prohibition. Assault-weapon import restrictions and other Oregon requirements still apply.
Dealer Requirements: HB 3076 contains proposed additional licensing requirements for firearms dealers and employees. These requirements are not currently operative.
Implementation Status: Measure 114 and related permit-to-purchase and magazine provisions should be treated according to the current operative court orders and Oregon State Police guidance.

PENNSYLVANIA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Handgun Private Party Transfers: Private party handgun transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL.

PUERTO RICO FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Background Checks: NICS background checks are required for firearm purchases, with an optional exemption for qualifying in-state concealed handgun permit holders issued within the last five years.
FFL Licensing: Dealers and their employees must comply with applicable licensing, training, and certification requirements before handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition.

RHODE ISLAND FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Effective July 1, 2026, Rhode Island restricts the manufacture, sale, and transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles and shotguns, including AR-style and AK-style firearms that accept detachable magazines and have specified features.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited, subject to statutory exemptions.
Age Requirements: Rhode Island generally requires purchasers of firearms and ammunition to be at least 21 years old, subject to statutory exceptions.
Forced Reset Triggers: Rhode Island restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Rhode Island requires a seven-day waiting period for firearm purchases, subject to statutory exemptions.
Ammunition Requirements: A valid handgun safety certificate or Rhode Island hunter education course card is required to purchase ammunition. Ammunition shipments are subject to state restrictions, including limitations on direct shipment and required permits or qualifying certifications.

SOUTH CAROLINA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Minimum Melting Point: Dealers must avoid transferring handguns with cast zinc or "pot-metal" frames that fail the 800°F test.

VERMONT FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Firearm Devices: Vermont restricts bump stocks and similar devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Vermont also restricts certain rapid-fire devices, including Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar devices.
Magazine Capacity: Vermont limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for handguns.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Under H.230, Vermont requires a 72-hour hold after NICS approval is received, or a seven-business-day hold after the dealer contacts NICS for a delayed background check, whichever occurs first.

VIRGINIA FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions: Virginia's SB 749/HB 217 restrictions concern certain assault weapons and magazines capable of holding more than 15 rounds.
Litigation Status: A statewide preliminary injunction in Santolla v. Katz is blocking enforcement of the challenged 2026 SB 749/HB 217 restrictions on the sale, purchase, manufacture, import, and transfer of defined assault weapons and magazines over 15 rounds. The injunction became effective July 21, 2026.
The challenged laws have not been repealed or finally invalidated. The injunction remains subject to possible stay, appeal, modification, or further court action.
Semiautomatic Firearm Restrictions for Certain Buyers Under 21: HB 1525 restricts the transfer of certain semiautomatic firearms to individuals under 21. Restricted firearms include certain semiautomatic centerfire rifles with a folding stock, threaded barrel, and a magazine over 20 rounds, as well as certain semiautomatic shotguns capable of holding more than 7 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: Virginia restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Trigger activators and similar devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under Virginia law.
Purchasing Requirements: Non-residents and dual residents must provide required identification documents for their Virginia residence.
Transfers and Background Checks: Effective July 1, 2026, private party firearm transfers require a Virginia State Police/Virginia Firearms Transaction Program background check. All in-state firearm transfers require a "Proceed" approval from Virginia State Police before completion.
Handgun Purchase Limits: Individuals without a Concealed Handgun License are limited to one handgun purchase per 30-day period. Qualifying purchasers may purchase more than one handgun within a 30-day period after completing the required enhanced application process.
Firearm Industry Requirements: The Firearm Industry Accountability Act, effective July 1, 2026, requires firearm industry members to maintain reasonable controls designed to prevent straw purchases, trafficking, theft, and transfers to prohibited persons. Violations may result in civil enforcement actions.

WASHINGTON STATE FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Washington restricts the manufacture, sale, transfer, and certain purchases of semiautomatic firearms classified as assault weapons under HB 1240.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds are restricted.
Forced Reset Triggers: Washington restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Rifle and Firearm Restrictions: Certain semiautomatic firearm configurations are restricted under Washington law. Complete or stripped uppers and lowers may be prohibited or restricted under applicable state requirements.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase semiautomatic rifles. Safety course certification and SAFE program requirements apply.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Washington requires a 10-business-day waiting period for firearm purchases, beginning from the date the background check request is submitted.
Firearm Registration: Handgun registration is required.
Out-of-State Purchases: Washington residents may purchase qualifying rifles and shotguns from out-of-state sources when federal law and the laws of both states permit the transaction. Washington's assault-weapon import restrictions still apply.
Pending Future Requirement: HB 1163 establishes a permit-to-purchase requirement effective May 1, 2027. The permit will be valid for five years.

WASHINGTON, DC FIREARMS RESTRICTIONS

Assault Weapons: Washington, DC prohibits assault weapons and .50 BMG rifles, along with other firearms classified as prohibited under District law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited.
Forced Reset Triggers: Washington, DC restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers, trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under District law.
Purchasing Requirements: Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms in Washington, DC. Pre-registration and a permit-to-purchase process are required.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Washington, DC requires a 10-day waiting period for firearm purchases. In-person out-of-state transfers are not permitted.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition possession is restricted to licensed dealers, registered firearm holders, and specifically designated officials. Direct shipment of ammunition and out-of-state ammunition purchases are prohibited.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are regulated as firearms under Washington, DC law and are subject to applicable registration, background-check, and transfer requirements.

IMPORTANT

Firearm, ammunition, magazine, and related-device laws change frequently. State and local requirements may also differ from federal requirements.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. It is intended as a general reference and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
The information above includes known restrictions, recent legislation, effective dates, and laws affected by current litigation based on the information available when this page was updated. Court decisions, injunctions, appeals, agency guidance, and statutory changes can alter the requirements.
Always verify current requirements with the appropriate government agency, qualified firearms compliance professional, or legal professional before purchasing, selling, shipping, transferring, or possessing firearms, ammunition, magazines, or related items.

This list was last updated 09/23/2026.

CLICK TO ENTER OUR EXTENSIVE DISCOUNT ONLINE HUNTING & SHOOTING SPORTS STORE