Are Bolt Action Rifles Legal in Illinois?
The question of whether bolt-action rifles are legal in Illinois has sparked a lot of controversy and confusion among gun owners and enthusiasts in the state. To answer this question, we need to explore the legal framework governing firearms in Illinois and examine the specific laws and regulations regarding bolt-action rifles.
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Laws and Regulations Governing Firearms in Illinois
Illinois has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the country, and understanding these laws is crucial to determining the legality of bolt-action rifles in the state. The Illinois Firearm Owner Identification Card Act (FOID) requires all Illinois residents who own or purchase firearms to obtain a FOID card from the Illinois State Police (ISP).
To be eligible for a FOID card, an individual must:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 years old for active or retired military or honorably discharged veterans)
- Not be subject to a protective order or domestic violence order
- Not have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving a firearm
- Not be addicted to narcotics
- Not be an illegal alien
Once an individual has obtained a FOID card, they can legally possess and own certain types of firearms, including rifles. However, there are strict regulations regarding the type and caliber of firearms that are allowed.
The Illinois Gun Ban: Are Bolt-Action Rifles Legal?
In 2013, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed the Firearm Owners Identification Card (FOID) Act into law, which banned certain types of assault weapons, including certain models of semi-automatic rifles with detachable magazines. This law specifically exempted certain types of rifles, including bolt-action rifles.
According to the law, bolt-action rifles are considered legal as long as they have a barrel length of at least 16 inches and an overall length of at least 26 inches. The rifle must also be chambered for a.22 centerfire or rimfire cartridge. In addition, the rifle cannot have a flash suppressor, bayonet lug, or collapsible or foldable stock.
Additional Regulations and Considerations
While bolt-action rifles with the aforementioned specifications are technically legal in Illinois, there are several additional regulations and considerations that gun owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:
• Registration Requirement: In Illinois, it is mandatory to register all firearms with the ISP, including bolt-action rifles.
• Assault Weapon Ban: As mentioned earlier, the FOID Act banned certain models of semi-automatic rifles, including some with detachable magazines. While bolt-action rifles are exempt from this ban, certain features, such as pistol grips and collapsible stocks, are still illegal on all rifles, including bolt-action rifles.
• Local Ordinances: Some local jurisdictions in Illinois have implemented their own stricter gun control laws, including bans on certain types of firearms, including bolt-action rifles. It is important for gun owners to familiarize themselves with local regulations and restrictions.
• Magazine Capacity: While the FOID Act does not impose a magazine capacity limit on bolt-action rifles, local ordinances and some county-level regulations may restrict magazine capacity to 10 rounds or less.
Table: Legal Considerations for Bolt-Action Rifles in Illinois
| Criteria | Legal/Illegal |
|---|---|
| Barrel length | Minimum 16 inches (Legal) |
| Overall length | Minimum 26 inches (Legal) |
| Caliber | .22 centerfire or rimfire (Legal) |
| Flash suppressor | Prohibited (Illegal) |
| Bayonet lug | Prohibited (Illegal) |
| Collapsible or foldable stock | Prohibited (Illegal) |
| Pistol grip | Prohibited (Illegal) |
| Collapsible magazine | Permitted, but local ordinances may restrict to 10 rounds or less |
In conclusion, bolt-action rifles are legal in Illinois as long as they meet the specific criteria outlined in the FOID Act and comply with local regulations and restrictions. It is essential for gun owners and enthusiasts to understand the laws and regulations governing firearms in Illinois to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues.
It is recommended that gun owners and enthusiasts check with local authorities and legal experts to confirm the specific laws and regulations applicable to their area and situation. Additionally, it is crucial to remember that the laws and regulations surrounding firearms are constantly evolving, and it is the responsibility of gun owners and enthusiasts to stay informed and adapt to changing legal requirements.
