What weapons can a felon own in Tennessee?

What Weapons Can a Felon Own in Tennessee?

As a felon, it can be challenging to navigate the complex laws surrounding gun ownership in Tennessee. The state has specific regulations regarding the types of weapons that felons can and cannot own. In this article, we will explore the laws and regulations surrounding weapon ownership for felons in Tennessee.

What is a Felon?

Before we dive into the specifics of weapon ownership, it’s essential to understand what constitutes a felon in Tennessee. A felon is an individual who has been convicted of a felony crime, which is a crime punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies can include a wide range of crimes, such as murder, robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking.

Tennessee’s Gun Laws

Tennessee has strict gun laws, and felons are subject to additional restrictions. The state’s gun laws are designed to ensure public safety and prevent felons from possessing firearms that could be used to commit further crimes.

Weapons That Felons Can Own in Tennessee

While felons are subject to strict regulations, there are some weapons that they can own in Tennessee. These weapons are typically considered to be less dangerous and are not classified as firearms. Here are some examples of weapons that felons can own in Tennessee:

• Bows and Arrows: Felons can own and possess bows and arrows, as long as they are not used for hunting or other illegal activities.
• Martial Arts Equipment: Felons can own and possess martial arts equipment, such as nunchucks, katanas, and other weapons used for self-defense.
• Airsoft Guns: Felons can own and possess airsoft guns, which are toy guns that shoot plastic pellets.
• BB Guns: Felons can own and possess BB guns, which are toy guns that shoot metal BBs.

Weapons That Felons Cannot Own in Tennessee

While felons can own some weapons, there are many that are strictly prohibited. These weapons are typically considered to be dangerous and are designed for use in combat or other illegal activities. Here are some examples of weapons that felons cannot own in Tennessee:

• Firearms: Felons are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
• Machine Guns: Felons are prohibited from owning or possessing machine guns, which are firearms that can fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull.
• Short-Barreled Shotguns: Felons are prohibited from owning or possessing short-barreled shotguns, which are shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches.
• Silencers: Felons are prohibited from owning or possessing silencers, which are devices that reduce the noise of a firearm.

Additional Restrictions for Felons in Tennessee

In addition to the weapons that felons can and cannot own, there are several additional restrictions that apply to felons in Tennessee. These restrictions include:

• Background Checks: Felons must undergo a background check before purchasing or owning a weapon.
• Waiting Periods: Felons must wait a certain period of time before purchasing or owning a weapon.
• Registration: Felons must register their weapons with the state.
• Storage: Felons must store their weapons in a secure location, such as a gun safe or lockbox.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while felons in Tennessee are subject to strict regulations regarding weapon ownership, there are some weapons that they can own. It’s essential for felons to understand the laws and regulations surrounding weapon ownership in Tennessee to avoid legal consequences. By knowing what weapons are prohibited and what restrictions apply, felons can ensure that they are in compliance with the law and can exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly.

Table: Weapons That Felons Can and Cannot Own in Tennessee

Note: This table is not exhaustive and is intended to provide a general overview of the weapons that felons can and cannot own in Tennessee. It’s essential to consult with a legal professional or law enforcement agency for specific guidance on weapon ownership in Tennessee.