Are Pump Shotguns Legal in Illinois?
Illinois is a state with strict gun laws, and understanding what types of firearms are legal in the state can be confusing. In this article, we will delve into the laws surrounding pump shotguns in Illinois, answering the question: are pump shotguns legal in Illinois?
Direct Answer:
Yes, pump shotguns are legal in Illinois, but there are certain requirements and restrictions that must be followed.
Key Points:
- Illinois allows the possession and purchase of pump shotguns with a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and a federal firearms license (FFL).
- Pump shotguns must meet federal and state regulations regarding barrel length, overall length, and gauge.
- Certain types of pump shotguns, such as those with a "pistol grip" or "flash suppressor", may be subject to stricter regulations or even be banned.
Federal Regulations:
The National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 and the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968 govern the sale, possession, and transfer of firearms in the United States, including pump shotguns. Federal regulations require pump shotguns to meet certain criteria:
- Barrel Length: The barrel of a pump shotgun must be at least 18 inches (46 cm) long, measured from the breech face to the muzzle.
- Overall Length: The overall length of the pump shotgun must be at least 26 inches (66 cm) long, measured from the breach face to the muzzle, with the stock extended.
- Gauge: Pump shotguns must have a minimum gauge of 10 (0.3 inches) and a maximum gauge of 12 (0.3 inches) for most hunting and recreational uses.
Illinois State Regulations:
In addition to federal regulations, Illinois has its own set of laws and regulations regarding pump shotguns. These laws include:
- Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card: To purchase or possess a pump shotgun in Illinois, you must have a valid FOID card.
- Federal Firearms License (FFL): To sell or transfer a pump shotgun in Illinois, the seller must be a licensed FFL.
- Magazine Capacity: Pump shotguns in Illinois are restricted to a maximum magazine capacity of 10 rounds, with certain exceptions for shotguns used for hunting.
- Pistol Grips and Flash Suppressors: Certain types of pump shotguns, such as those with a "pistol grip" or "flash suppressor", are subject to stricter regulations or may be banned in Illinois.
Exceptions and Restrictions:
While pump shotguns are generally legal in Illinois, there are certain exceptions and restrictions that must be followed:
- Felon or Convicted Felon: If you have a felony conviction, you are prohibited from possessing a pump shotgun or any other firearm in Illinois.
- Mental Health: If you have a mental health condition that prevents you from safely possessing a firearm, you may be prohibited from owning a pump shotgun.
- Prohibited Possessors: Certain individuals, such as those subject to a restraining order or those with a history of domestic violence, may be prohibited from possessing a pump shotgun.
Table: Summary of Federal and State Regulations
| Regulation | Federal | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | at least 18 inches (46 cm) | N/A |
| Overall Length | at least 26 inches (66 cm) | N/A |
| Gauge | 10-12 (0.3-0.3 inches) | N/A |
| FOID Card | N/A | Required for possession |
| FFL | Required for sale/transfers | N/A |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10 rounds (with exceptions) |
| Pistol Grips and Flash Suppressors | N/A | Subject to stricter regulations/banned |
Conclusion:
Pump shotguns are legal in Illinois, but only if they meet federal and state regulations regarding barrel length, overall length, gauge, and magazine capacity. Additionally, certain types of pump shotguns, such as those with a "pistol grip" or "flash suppressor", may be subject to stricter regulations or even be banned. It is essential for individuals in Illinois to understand and comply with these regulations to ensure they are legal and safe to possess a pump shotgun.
