Is it Legal to Own a Tommy Gun?
The Tommy gun, also known as the Thompson submachine gun, is a type of fully automatic firearm that was widely used during the Prohibition era in the United States. The weapon was made famous by gangsters like Al Capone, who used it to gain notoriety and terrorize their enemies. However, the legality of owning a Tommy gun has been a topic of controversy for many years.
The Original Ban
In 1929, the National Firearms Act (NFA) was passed, which imposed a tax and strict regulations on the production, sale, and possession of machine guns, including the Tommy gun. The law required anyone who wanted to own a machine gun to obtain a special permit and pay a $200 tax (approximately $3,500 today). This law effectively banned the civilian ownership of machine guns, including the Tommy gun.
Post-War Relaxation
After World War II, the NFA was modified to allow for the sale and ownership of certain machine guns, including those that were previously banned. The law allowed for the possession of machine guns that were manufactured before May 1986, as long as the owner obtained a permit and paid the required tax.
Modern Regulations
Today, the National Firearms Act (NFA) is still in place, and it regulates the possession, sale, and manufacture of machine guns, including the Tommy gun. Under federal law, it is illegal to possess or manufacture a machine gun that was not registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) before May 1986.
State Laws
However, state laws may vary when it comes to owning a Tommy gun. Some states, such as California, Connecticut, and Maryland, have laws that ban the possession or sale of machine guns, including the Tommy gun. Other states, such as Florida and Texas, allow the possession of machine guns, but with strict regulations and permits.
How to Legally Own a Tommy Gun
If you are interested in legally owning a Tommy gun, here are the steps you can take:
- Check the state laws: Before purchasing a Tommy gun, check the laws in your state to ensure that it is legal to own.
- Find a registered dealer: Look for a licensed dealer who is authorized to sell NFA items, including machine guns.
- Obtain the necessary permits: You will need to obtain a tax stamp and a permit from the ATF to possess and transport the Tommy gun.
- Pass the background check: You will need to undergo a background check before being allowed to purchase the Tommy gun.
Table: Requirements for Legally Owning a Tommy Gun
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| State laws | Check the laws in your state to ensure it is legal to own |
| Registered dealer | Find a licensed dealer who is authorized to sell NFA items |
| Tax stamp | Obtain a tax stamp from the ATF to possess and transport the Tommy gun |
| Permit | Obtain a permit from the ATF to possess and transport the Tommy gun |
| Background check | Pass a background check before purchasing the Tommy gun |
Penalties for Illegal Ownership
If you are caught owning a Tommy gun illegally, you can face serious penalties, including:
- Federal charges: You can be charged with a federal crime, which can carry a fine and/or up to 10 years in prison.
- State charges: You can be charged with a state crime, which can carry a fine and/or up to 5 years in prison.
- Forfeiture: You can lose the Tommy gun and any other NFA items that were not properly registered.
- Criminal charges: You can face additional criminal charges, such as possessing a firearm while under the influence or possessing a firearm during a crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, owning a Tommy gun is legal, but it requires careful consideration of federal and state laws. It is essential to check the laws in your state, find a registered dealer, obtain the necessary permits, and pass a background check. Additionally, it is crucial to understand the penalties for illegal ownership, which can be severe. If you are interested in legally owning a Tommy gun, consult with a licensed dealer and an attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
