What Guns are Illegal in NJ?
New Jersey is known for having some of the strictest gun laws in the country. The state has a long history of regulating firearms, and it’s essential to understand what guns are illegal in NJ to avoid any legal issues. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of what guns are prohibited in New Jersey and why.
Assault Weapons
One of the most significant categories of illegal guns in NJ is assault weapons. Assault weapons are defined as firearms that have certain features, such as:
• A folding or collapsible stock
• A pistol grip
• A flash suppressor
• A muzzle brake
• A grenade launcher
Examples of assault weapons include:
• AK-47
• AR-15
• Uzi
• MAC-10
These weapons are illegal in NJ because they are designed to cause mass destruction and are often used in high-capacity magazines.
High-Capacity Magazines
In addition to assault weapons, high-capacity magazines are also illegal in NJ. High-capacity magazines are defined as magazines that can hold more than 15 rounds of ammunition. This includes:
• Magazines that can hold 16 or more rounds
• Magazines that can be easily converted to hold more than 15 rounds
• Magazines that have been modified to hold more than 15 rounds
The use of high-capacity magazines is illegal in NJ because they increase the risk of mass shootings and make it easier for criminals to cause harm.
Other Illegal Firearms
In addition to assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, there are several other types of firearms that are illegal in NJ. These include:
• Machine guns: Firearms that can fire more than one shot with a single trigger pull are illegal in NJ.
• Short-barreled shotguns: Shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches are illegal in NJ.
• Silencers: Devices that can reduce the noise of a firearm are illegal in NJ.
• Destructive devices: Firearms that are designed to cause mass destruction, such as grenades and rocket launchers, are illegal in NJ.
Why are these Guns Illegal in NJ?
So, why are these guns illegal in NJ? The main reason is to reduce the risk of gun violence and mass shootings. By prohibiting these types of firearms, the state is trying to make it more difficult for criminals to obtain weapons that can cause harm.
Consequences of Possessing Illegal Firearms
If you are found to be in possession of an illegal firearm in NJ, you can face serious consequences. These can include:
• Fines: You can be fined up to $10,000 for possessing an illegal firearm.
• Imprisonment: You can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison for possessing an illegal firearm.
• Loss of gun rights: You can lose your right to own a firearm in NJ for a period of 10 years.
Table: Illegal Firearms in NJ
| Type of Firearm | Description | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Assault Weapons | Firearms with certain features, such as folding stocks and pistol grips | Up to 10 years in prison, $10,000 fine |
| High-Capacity Magazines | Magazines that can hold more than 15 rounds of ammunition | Up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine |
| Machine Guns | Firearms that can fire more than one shot with a single trigger pull | Up to 10 years in prison, $10,000 fine |
| Short-Barreled Shotguns | Shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches | Up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine |
| Silencers | Devices that can reduce the noise of a firearm | Up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine |
| Destructive Devices | Firearms designed to cause mass destruction, such as grenades and rocket launchers | Up to 10 years in prison, $10,000 fine |
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several types of firearms that are illegal in NJ, including assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, silencers, and destructive devices. These firearms are illegal because they increase the risk of gun violence and mass shootings. If you are found to be in possession of an illegal firearm in NJ, you can face serious consequences, including fines and imprisonment. It’s essential to understand what guns are illegal in NJ to avoid any legal issues.
