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Are muzzle brakes legal in Illinois?

Are Muzzle Brakes Legal in Illinois?

As a responsible gun owner in Illinois, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding the use of muzzle brakes on your firearms. Muzzle brakes are devices designed to reduce the recoil and muzzle rise of a gun, making it easier to shoot and more accurate. But are they legal in the Prairie State?

Direct Answer:

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Muzzle brakes are legal in Illinois, but there are specific regulations and restrictions you must follow. According to the Illinois State Police, muzzle brakes are permitted as long as they do not exceed 1 inch in diameter and are designed to reduce recoil and not alter the trajectory of the projectile.

Background Check and Registration:

To own a muzzle brake in Illinois, you’ll need to undergo a background check and register your firearm with the Illinois State Police. This is a requirement for all firearms, including muzzle brakes. You can submit your registration application online or in person at a state police facility.

Specific Laws and Regulations:

Here are some key laws and regulations to keep in mind when it comes to muzzle brakes in Illinois:

Illinois Revised Statutes (730 ILCS 5/24-1): This statute prohibits the manufacture, sale, or possession of any firearm that has a barrel less than 16 inches in length or any firearm that is designed or intended to be fired while concealed on the person.
Illinois Revised Statutes (430 ILCS 65/5): This statute prohibits the sale or transfer of any firearm that is designed or intended to be fired while concealed on the person, including muzzle brakes.
Illinois Administrative Code (20 Ill. Adm. Code 1360.10): This code regulates the manufacture, sale, and possession of firearms, including muzzle brakes. It requires that all firearms, including muzzle brakes, be registered with the Illinois State Police.

Federal Law:

In addition to Illinois state law, you must also comply with federal law when it comes to muzzle brakes. The National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates the possession, transfer, and registration of certain firearms, including muzzle brakes. Under the NFA, muzzle brakes are considered firearms silencers, which are regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

ATF Definition:

According to the ATF, a muzzle brake is considered a firearm silencer if it is designed to:

• Reduce the noise of a firearm
• Reduce the muzzle flash of a firearm
• Reduce the recoil of a firearm
• Alter the trajectory of a projectile

ATF Registration:

To own a muzzle brake that is considered a firearm silencer, you’ll need to register it with the ATF. This involves paying a $200 transfer tax and submitting an application to the ATF.

Table: Muzzle Brake Regulations in Illinois

RegulationDescriptionConsequences
Background CheckMust undergo a background check to own a muzzle brakeFailure to comply may result in criminal charges
RegistrationMust register muzzle brake with Illinois State PoliceFailure to comply may result in fines and confiscation of the firearm
Federal LawMust comply with federal law, including registration with the ATFFailure to comply may result in criminal charges and fines
DefinitionMuzzle brake must not alter the trajectory of a projectileFailure to comply may result in registration requirements

Conclusion:

In conclusion, muzzle brakes are legal in Illinois as long as they meet specific regulations and restrictions. You must undergo a background check, register your muzzle brake with the Illinois State Police, and comply with federal law. Failure to comply may result in criminal charges, fines, and confiscation of the firearm. As a responsible gun owner in Illinois, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding muzzle brakes to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.

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