What Rifles Can I Buy in Illinois?
Illinois is a state with specific laws and regulations regarding the purchase and ownership of rifles. As a gun enthusiast or a new gun owner, it’s essential to understand what types of rifles are legal to buy in Illinois and what requirements you need to meet. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of buying a rifle in Illinois and provide you with a list of popular rifle options available in the state.
What are the Legal Requirements to Buy a Rifle in Illinois?
Before we dive into the types of rifles you can buy in Illinois, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements. To purchase a rifle in Illinois, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a legal resident of Illinois
- Pass a background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Illinois State Police
- Obtain a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card from the Illinois State Police
- Comply with federal laws and regulations regarding the purchase and ownership of firearms
Types of Rifles You Can Buy in Illinois
Illinois has strict laws regarding the types of rifles that can be sold and owned in the state. Here are some popular rifle options that are legal to buy in Illinois:
Centerfire Rifles
- Remington 700: A popular choice among hunters and target shooters, the Remington 700 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in various calibers, including.243,.308, and.30-06.
- Winchester Model 70: Another iconic American rifle, the Winchester Model 70 is a bolt-action rifle available in various calibers, including.243,.308, and.30-06.
- Savage 110: A budget-friendly option, the Savage 110 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in various calibers, including.243,.308, and.30-06.
rimfire Rifles
- Rimfire Rifles: Illinois law allows the sale and ownership of rimfire rifles, which are chambered in calibers such as.22 Long Rifle and.22 WMR. Popular rimfire rifle options include:
- Ruger 10/22: A popular choice among target shooters and hunters, the Ruger 10/22 is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in.22 Long Rifle.
- Marlin Model 60: A bolt-action rifle available in.22 Long Rifle and.22 WMR, the Marlin Model 60 is a great option for target shooting and small game hunting.
Handguns and Shotguns
- Handguns: Illinois law allows the sale and ownership of handguns, which are regulated by the Illinois State Police. Popular handgun options include:
- Glock: A popular choice among law enforcement and civilian shooters, Glock offers a range of handguns in various calibers, including 9mm,.40 S&W, and.45 ACP.
- Smith & Wesson: Another well-known firearms manufacturer, Smith & Wesson offers a range of handguns in various calibers, including 9mm,.40 S&W, and.45 ACP.
- Shotguns: Illinois law allows the sale and ownership of shotguns, which are regulated by the Illinois State Police. Popular shotgun options include:
- Remington 870: A popular choice among hunters and home defense enthusiasts, the Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun available in various gauges, including 12-gauge and 20-gauge.
- Mossberg 500: Another popular shotgun option, the Mossberg 500 is a pump-action shotgun available in various gauges, including 12-gauge and 20-gauge.
Additional Requirements and Restrictions
In addition to the legal requirements and types of rifles listed above, there are several additional requirements and restrictions to consider when buying a rifle in Illinois:
- Background Check: All firearms purchases in Illinois require a background check through the FBI and the Illinois State Police.
- FOID Card: You must have a valid FOID card to purchase and own a rifle in Illinois.
- Waiting Period: There is a 72-hour waiting period for all firearms purchases in Illinois.
- Magazine Capacity: Illinois law restricts magazine capacity to 15 rounds or less for semi-automatic rifles and shotguns.
- Assault Weapon Ban: Illinois law bans the sale and ownership of assault weapons, which are defined as semi-automatic rifles with certain features, such as a pistol grip or folding stock.
Conclusion
Buying a rifle in Illinois requires understanding the legal requirements and restrictions in place. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are purchasing a rifle that is legal to own and operate in the state. Remember to always follow federal and state laws and regulations regarding the purchase and ownership of firearms.
