Are AR Pistols Legal in Maryland?
Maryland, like many other states in the United States, has its own set of laws and regulations regarding firearms, including AR pistols. The legality of AR pistols in Maryland is a topic of much debate and confusion among gun owners and enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the current state of the law and provide a comprehensive answer to the question: Are AR pistols legal in Maryland?
What is an AR Pistol?
Before we dive into the legality of AR pistols in Maryland, it’s essential to understand what an AR pistol is. An AR pistol is a firearm that is designed and configured to be fired from the shoulder, but is not a rifle. AR pistols are typically shorter than rifles and have a longer barrel, but are designed to be fired with the same mechanism as a handgun. They are often used for self-defense, hunting, and recreational shooting.
Maryland Law Regarding AR Pistols
In Maryland, the law regarding AR pistols is governed by the Maryland Firearm Safety Act (MFSA) of 2013. The MFSA defines an "assault weapon" as a firearm that meets certain criteria, including having a folding or collapsible stock, a pistol grip, and a barrel length of less than 16 inches. AR pistols, which have a barrel length of less than 16 inches and a folding or collapsible stock, are considered assault weapons under Maryland law.
Legal and Illegal AR Pistols in Maryland
Under Maryland law, there are two types of AR pistols: legal and illegal. Legal AR pistols are those that meet the criteria for an assault weapon, but are grandfathered in under the MFSA. These firearms were legally owned and registered before the MFSA was enacted in 2013. Illegal AR pistols are those that do not meet the criteria for an assault weapon, but are still configured to be fired from the shoulder.
Grandfathered In AR Pistols
Maryland law allows for grandfathered in AR pistols to be owned and possessed by individuals who legally owned them before the MFSA was enacted. To be grandfathered in, an AR pistol must have been legally owned and registered in Maryland before October 1, 2013. Additionally, the owner must have been a Maryland resident at the time of purchase and must have possessed the firearm continuously since then.
Illegal AR Pistols
Illegal AR pistols, on the other hand, are those that do not meet the criteria for an assault weapon, but are still configured to be fired from the shoulder. These firearms are illegal to own, possess, or manufacture in Maryland. The possession of an illegal AR pistol can result in criminal charges and fines.
Converting a Pistol to an AR Pistol
Another important consideration is the conversion of a pistol to an AR pistol. Converting a pistol to an AR pistol by attaching a stock or other component is illegal in Maryland. This is because the MFSA prohibits the conversion of a pistol to an assault weapon.
Penalties for Violating Maryland Law
Violating Maryland law regarding AR pistols can result in serious penalties, including:
- Criminal charges: Possessing an illegal AR pistol can result in criminal charges, including felonies and misdemeanors.
- Fines: Fines can range from $1,000 to $10,000 for violating Maryland law regarding AR pistols.
- Imprisonment: Imprisonment can range from 1 to 10 years for violating Maryland law regarding AR pistols.
- Forfeiture: The firearm itself can be forfeited and destroyed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the legality of AR pistols in Maryland is complex and nuanced. While grandfathered in AR pistols are legal, illegal AR pistols are illegal and can result in serious penalties. Converting a pistol to an AR pistol is also illegal in Maryland. It is essential for gun owners and enthusiasts to understand the laws and regulations regarding AR pistols in Maryland to avoid violating the law and facing penalties.
Table: Comparison of Legal and Illegal AR Pistols in Maryland
| Legal AR Pistols | Illegal AR Pistols | |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | Less than 16 inches | Less than 16 inches |
| Stock | Folding or collapsible | Folding or collapsible |
| Pistol Grip | Yes | Yes |
| Grandfathered In | Yes, if owned and registered before October 1, 2013 | No |
| Legal to Own and Possess | Yes | No |
| Legal to Manufacture | No | No |
Bullets Points:
- Maryland law defines an "assault weapon" as a firearm that meets certain criteria, including having a folding or collapsible stock, a pistol grip, and a barrel length of less than 16 inches.
- AR pistols with a barrel length of less than 16 inches and a folding or collapsible stock are considered assault weapons under Maryland law.
- Grandfathered in AR pistols are legal to own and possess, but illegal to manufacture or convert a pistol to an AR pistol.
- Illegal AR pistols are illegal to own, possess, or manufacture in Maryland and can result in criminal charges and fines.
- Violating Maryland law regarding AR pistols can result in serious penalties, including criminal charges, fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture.
