What Guns are Banned in WA?
Washington state has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the country, with a focus on reducing gun violence and promoting public safety. As a result, many types of firearms are banned or heavily regulated in the state. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of what guns are banned in WA, including assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and other prohibited firearms.
Assault Weapons
Assault weapons, also known as semiautomatic rifles, are a major concern for gun control advocates in Washington state. These weapons are designed to mimic fully automatic firearms, but fire one round per trigger pull, unlike fully automatic weapons, which fire continuously. In 2018, Washington state passed Initiative 1639, which banned the sale and possession of certain types of assault weapons.
Banned Assault Weapons in WA:
- Rifles with folding or collapsible stocks, such as the AK-47 and AR-15
- Rifles with flash suppressors, such as the AK-47 and AR-15
- Rifles with pistol grips, such as the AK-47 and AR-15
- Rifles with barrel shrouds, such as the AK-47 and AR-15
High-Capacity Magazines
High-capacity magazines, which can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition, are also heavily regulated in Washington state. In 2018, the state legislature passed a law banning the sale and possession of magazines with a capacity of more than 10 rounds.
Banned High-Capacity Magazines in WA:
- Magazines with a capacity of more than 10 rounds
- Magazines designed to be easily converted to hold more than 10 rounds
Other Prohibited Firearms
In addition to assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, Washington state has a number of other prohibited firearms, including:
- Machine guns: Fully automatic firearms, which fire continuously when the trigger is pulled
- Short-barreled shotguns: Shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches
- Sawed-off shotguns: Shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches or a overall length of less than 26 inches
- Silencers: Devices that reduce the noise of a firearm
- Undetectable firearms: Firearms that do not contain a detectable fingerprint or other identifying feature
Prohibited Persons
In addition to prohibited firearms, Washington state also has a number of prohibited persons, including:
- Convicted felons: Individuals who have been convicted of a felony
- Domestic violence misdemeanants: Individuals who have been convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor
- People with mental health issues: Individuals who have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution or found to be mentally incompetent
Penalties for Prohibited Firearms
The penalties for possessing or selling a prohibited firearm in Washington state can be severe. Violators can face fines and imprisonment, including:
- Fines: Up to $10,000 for possessing a prohibited firearm
- Imprisonment: Up to 5 years for possessing a prohibited firearm
- Loss of gun rights: Permanent loss of gun rights for prohibited persons
Table: Prohibited Firearms in WA
| Type of Firearm | Prohibited in WA |
|---|---|
| Assault weapons | Yes |
| High-capacity magazines | Yes |
| Machine guns | Yes |
| Short-barreled shotguns | Yes |
| Sawed-off shotguns | Yes |
| Silencers | Yes |
| Undetectable firearms | Yes |
Conclusion
Washington state has a comprehensive set of laws regulating firearms, with a focus on reducing gun violence and promoting public safety. The state’s ban on assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and other prohibited firearms is designed to reduce the risk of gun-related harm. By understanding what guns are banned in WA, residents and visitors can better navigate the state’s complex firearms laws and help ensure a safer and more responsible gun culture.
