Are Armor Piercing Rounds Illegal?
In this article, we will discuss the legality of armor-piercing rounds and help you understand the regulations and restrictions surrounding these powerful firearms.
Direct Answer for the Question: Are Armor Piercing Rounds Illegal?
Armor-piercing rounds are not illegal at the federal level in the United States, but there are certain restrictions and regulations. Only certain individuals who are authorized to possess them legally are allowed to buy or own armor-piercing rounds. This may include military personnel, law enforcement officers, and gun collectors.
What is an Armor Piercing Round?
An armor-piercing round, or AP round, is designed to penetrate armor-plated targets, such as heavy vehicles, tanks, or body armor. AP rounds are typically made with a hardened steel core and are muzzle-loaded. They are illegal for civilian use in the United States, with only certain exceptions.
Federal Ban on Armor Piercing Rifle Ammunition
In 1986, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) banned the ownership and sale of armor piercing rifle ammunition to all civilians. This ban effectively prohibited the sale of AR-15 and other sporting rifles, as well as other semi-automatic firearms designed to accept armor-piercing ammunition.
Which States Have Their Own Prohibitions?
Many states have their own prohibitions on certain types of armor-piercing rounds. In some states, all ammunition is banned, while others have specific restrictions on handgun or rifle ammunition. Additionally, some states have provisions that make it illegal for certain individuals, such as convicted felons or parolees, to own certain types of ammunition.
State-by-State Breakdown of Armor-Piercing Round Restrictions:
| State | AR-15 Restrictions | Handgun Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | No | No |
| Alaska | No | Limited |
| Arizona | Partial | No |
| California | Total | Total |
| Colorado | No | Limited |
| Connecticut | Total | Total |
| Delaware | No | Partial |
| Florida | Limited | Limited |
| Hawaii | Total | Total |
| Idaho | No | No |
| Illinois | Limited | Limited |
| Indiana | No | Limited |
| Kentucky | No | No |
| Louisiana | No | Limited |
| Maine | No | Partial |
| Maryland | No | Limited |
| Massachusetts | Total | Total |
| Michigan | Limited | Limited |
| Minnesota | No | Limited |
| Mississippi | No | Partial |
| Missouri | Partial | Partial |
| Nebraska | No | No |
| Nevada | Limited | Limited |
| New Jersey | Total | Total |
| New Mexico | Partial | Limited |
| New York | Total | Total |
| North Carolina | Limited | Limited |
| North Dakota | No | No |
| Ohio | Limited | Limited |
| Oklahoma | No | Partial |
| Oregon | No | Limited |
| Pennsylvania | Limited | Limited |
| Rhode Island | Partial | Partial |
| Tennessee | No | Partial |
| Texas | No | Limited |
| Utah | No | Limited |
| Vermont | No | Limited |
| Virginia | Partial | Partial |
| Washington | Limited | Limited |
| West Virginia | Partial | Limited |
| Wisconsin | Limited | Limited |
Key Takeaways from the Table:
- 7 states have bans on all armor-piercing rounds (AR-15 and handgun)
- 11 states have restricted or limited access to ARMOR-PIERKing rounds (AR-15 and handgun)
- 33 states have no restrictions or prohibitions on armor-piercing rounds (AR-15 and handgun)
- 9 states restrict or ban certain types of handgun ammunition
When are Armor Piercing Rounds Legal?
Armor piercing rounds are legal when:
- Used by military and law enforcement personnel in compliance with military and department of justice regulations
- Collectors, curators, and museums are authorized by the National Firearms Act to possess armor-piercing rounds for historical, artistic, or educational purposes
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Federal Felonies: Possessing or transferring armor-piercing rounds without a legal exemption can result in imprisonment for up to 20 years
- Federal Misdemeanors: Violating federal restrictions or regulations on armor-piercing rounds can result in up to 1 year in prison and a fine up to $100,000
- State-Felonies: State statutes may impose more severe penalties for non-compliance
- State-Misdemeanors: State-level violations may result in criminal charges, fines, or both
Conclusion
Armor-piercing rounds are legal for certain groups, such as military, law enforcement, and historians, but are restricted and illegal for civilians in the United States. State restrictions and prohibitions vary greatly, with some states restricting or banning certain types of armor-piercing rounds. It is essential for individuals to understand and abide by local and federal laws regarding armor-piercing rounds to avoid criminal liability.
