Can You Buy Gun Parts in Washington State 2023?
Washington state is known for its strict gun laws, and when it comes to buying gun parts, there are certain regulations that residents and visitors need to be aware of. In this article, we will delve into the details of what is allowed and what is not when it comes to purchasing gun parts in Washington state.
Direct Answer:
Yes, you can buy gun parts in Washington state, but there are certain restrictions and regulations that apply. Federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs) are allowed to sell gun parts, including parts kits, receivers, and other components, as long as they are not fully assembled or functional firearms. However, there are some exceptions and limitations that need to be considered.
Federal Law:
Before we dive into Washington state’s specific laws, it’s essential to understand the federal regulations that apply. The Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968 and the Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA) of 1986 are the primary federal laws that govern the sale of gun parts. According to these laws, FFLs are prohibited from selling certain types of gun parts, including:
• Fully assembled or functional firearms
• Silencers
• Machine guns
• Short-barreled shotguns
• Any part that is designed or intended to be used to convert a firearm into a machine gun
Washington State Law:
Washington state has its own set of laws that regulate the sale of gun parts. The Washington State Legislature has enacted several laws aimed at reducing gun violence and preventing the unauthorized sale of firearms. RCW 9.41.110 states that any person who sells or transfers a firearm or firearm part must obtain a background check. This law applies to both FFLs and private sellers.
What Gun Parts Can You Buy?
So, what types of gun parts can you buy in Washington state? FFLs are allowed to sell:
• Parts kits: These are pre-assembled kits that contain the major components of a firearm, such as the receiver, barrel, and stock. However, these kits cannot be sold with any parts that are designed or intended to be used to convert a firearm into a fully assembled or functional firearm.
• Receivers: These are the metal or polymer frames that form the basis of a firearm. Receivers can be sold as long as they are not fully assembled or functional.
• Barrels: Barrels can be sold as long as they are not attached to a receiver or any other part that would make the barrel functional.
• Magazines: Magazines can be sold as long as they are not designed or intended to be used with a fully assembled or functional firearm.
• Accessories: Accessories such as scopes, stocks, and grips can be sold as long as they are not designed or intended to be used with a fully assembled or functional firearm.
What Gun Parts Can’t You Buy?
On the other hand, there are certain gun parts that are prohibited from being sold in Washington state, including:
• Fully assembled or functional firearms: These are prohibited from being sold by FFLs and private sellers.
• Silencers: Silencers are prohibited from being sold by FFLs and private sellers.
• Machine guns: Machine guns are prohibited from being sold by FFLs and private sellers.
• Short-barreled shotguns: Short-barreled shotguns are prohibited from being sold by FFLs and private sellers.
• Any part that is designed or intended to be used to convert a firearm into a machine gun: Any part that is designed or intended to be used to convert a firearm into a machine gun is prohibited from being sold by FFLs and private sellers.
Table: Washington State Gun Part Regulations
| Gun Part | Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| Parts kits | ||
| Receivers | ||
| Barrels | ||
| Magazines | ||
| Accessories | ||
| Fully assembled or functional firearms | ||
| Silencers | ||
| Machine guns | ||
| Short-barreled shotguns | ||
| Any part designed to convert a firearm into a machine gun |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while there are certain restrictions and regulations that apply to buying gun parts in Washington state, FFLs are allowed to sell parts kits, receivers, barrels, magazines, and accessories as long as they are not fully assembled or functional firearms. Private sellers are also allowed to sell gun parts, but they must obtain a background check and ensure that the sale is compliant with federal and state laws. It’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding gun parts in Washington state to avoid any legal issues or penalties.
