What Shotguns are Illegal in Illinois?
Illinois is a state with strict gun laws, and shotguns are no exception. While shotguns are legal for hunting and other purposes, there are certain types that are illegal to own, possess, or use in the state. In this article, we will explore what shotguns are illegal in Illinois and why.
Federal and State Laws
Before diving into the specifics of what shotguns are illegal in Illinois, it’s important to understand the interplay between federal and state laws. The National Firearms Act (NFA) is a federal law that regulates certain types of firearms, including shotguns. The NFA defines a shotgun as a firearm that is not designed or redesigned to be fired from the shoulder.
Illinois has its own set of laws regulating firearms, including shotguns. The Illinois Firearm Owner Identification Card Act (FOID) requires individuals to obtain a FOID card before purchasing or possessing a firearm, including a shotgun. The FOID card requires a background check and the payment of a fee.
Illegal Shotguns in Illinois
So, what shotguns are illegal in Illinois? Here are some examples:
- Shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches: Shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches are illegal in Illinois, unless they are registered with the federal government under the National Firearms Act (NFA). This is because shotguns with short barrels are considered to be short-barreled shotguns (SBS), which are regulated by the NFA.
- Shotguns with a overall length of less than 26 inches: Shotguns with an overall length of less than 26 inches are also illegal in Illinois. This is because they are considered to be short-barreled shotguns (SBS) and are regulated by the NFA.
- Shotguns with a magazine capacity of more than 5 rounds: Shotguns with a magazine capacity of more than 5 rounds are illegal in Illinois. This is because they are considered to be assault weapons and are regulated by the Illinois Assault Weapons Ban.
- Shotguns with a pistol grip: Shotguns with a pistol grip are illegal in Illinois, unless they are registered with the federal government under the National Firearms Act (NFA). This is because they are considered to be short-barreled shotguns (SBS) and are regulated by the NFA.
- Shotguns with a folding or collapsible stock: Shotguns with a folding or collapsible stock are illegal in Illinois, unless they are registered with the federal government under the National Firearms Act (NFA). This is because they are considered to be short-barreled shotguns (SBS) and are regulated by the NFA.
Penalties for Illegal Shotguns
If you are found to be in possession of an illegal shotgun in Illinois, you can face serious penalties. These can include:
- Fine: You can be fined up to $1,000 for possessing an illegal shotgun.
- Jail time: You can be sentenced to up to 1 year in jail for possessing an illegal shotgun.
- Revocation of FOID card: Your FOID card can be revoked for possessing an illegal shotgun.
- Criminal charges: You can be charged with a felony for possessing an illegal shotgun.
Table: Illegal Shotguns in Illinois
| Type of Shotgun | Illegal in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches | |
| Shotguns with an overall length of less than 26 inches | |
| Shotguns with a magazine capacity of more than 5 rounds | |
| Shotguns with a pistol grip | |
| Shotguns with a folding or collapsible stock |
Conclusion
Shotguns are legal for hunting and other purposes in Illinois, but there are certain types that are illegal to own, possess, or use in the state. These include shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, shotguns with an overall length of less than 26 inches, shotguns with a magazine capacity of more than 5 rounds, shotguns with a pistol grip, and shotguns with a folding or collapsible stock. It’s important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding firearms in Illinois to avoid penalties and legal consequences.
