Can You own a tommy gun?

Can You Own a Tommy Gun?

The Tommy gun, also known as the Thompson submachine gun, is a legendary firearm that has become synonymous with the Prohibition era and organized crime. Its iconic design and legendary status have made it a coveted collector’s item for many gun enthusiasts. However, owning a Tommy gun is not as straightforward as it seems. In this article, we’ll delve into the legality and process of owning a Tommy gun, as well as provide some historical context and fun facts about this iconic weapon.

History of the Tommy Gun

The Thompson submachine gun was invented by John T. Thompson in the 1920s. It was originally designed for use in trench warfare during World War I, but it didn’t see widespread use until after the war. The gun gained notoriety during the Prohibition era of the 1920s and 1930s, when it was widely used by organized crime gangs, including Al Capone’s gang.

The Tommy gun’s popularity was also fueled by its depiction in films and literature, including the classic gangster movies of the 1930s and 1940s. The gun’s reputation as a symbol of gangsterism and criminality has endured to this day, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Legality of Owning a Tommy Gun

So, can you own a Tommy Gun? The answer is a resounding "maybe." The legality of owning a Tommy Gun depends on a number of factors, including your location, the specific model of the gun, and your local laws regarding firearms.

Federal Laws

In the United States, the Tommy Gun is considered a National Firearms Act (NFA) weapon, which means it is heavily regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). To legally own a Tommy Gun, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a resident of the United States
• Pass a background check
• Pay a $200 transfer tax (this tax is not paid by the buyer, but by the seller)
• Register the gun with the ATF

State and Local Laws

In addition to federal laws, many states and local governments have their own laws regarding firearms, including the Tommy Gun. Some states have restrictions on the ownership of submachine guns, while others may have specific requirements or permits needed to own such a weapon.

For example, in California, ownership of a Tommy Gun requires a special permit and approval from the California Department of Justice. In New York, the possession of a Tommy Gun is illegal without a special permit.

Can You Own a Functional Tommy Gun?

Not everyone can own a fully functional Tommy Gun. Many modern Tommy Guns are "fake" or " reproductions" that are made to look like the original, but are not fully functional. These guns may be made of plastic or metal and may not be capable of firing live ammunition.

If you want to own a fully functional Tommy Gun, you will need to find a licensed manufacturer or dealer who is allowed to sell NFA weapons. These guns are usually expensive, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

Benefits of Owning a Tommy Gun

So, what are the benefits of owning a Tommy Gun? Here are a few:

• Historical significance: The Tommy Gun is a piece of history, with a rich and storied past. Owning a Tommy Gun is a great way to own a piece of that history.
• Collectibility: Tommy Guns are highly sought-after collector’s items, with many enthusiasts willing to pay top dollar for rare or unique models.
• Fun: Let’s be honest, owning a Tommy Gun is a lot of fun! It’s a unique and iconic weapon that is sure to generate plenty of attention and conversation.
• Investment: Tommy Guns are a smart investment, with many rare models appreciating in value over time.

Fun Facts About the Tommy Gun

Here are a few fun facts about the Tommy Gun:

• Fastest-selling gun: The Tommy Gun was the fastest-selling gun in the world when it was first introduced, with over 15,000 guns sold in the first year alone.
• Used in the war: The Tommy Gun was used by the United States military during World War II, where it became known as the "Tommy Gun" due to its popularity among American troops.
• Influenced popular culture: The Tommy Gun has been featured in countless films, television shows, and video games, including the classic TV show "The Untouchables" and the "Call of Duty" video game series.
• Highly regulated: Due to its reputation as a symbol of gangsterism and criminality, the Tommy Gun is heavily regulated by the government, making it difficult to own one legally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, owning a Tommy Gun is not for the faint of heart. It requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort, as well as a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding NFA weapons. However, for those who are willing to put in the work, owning a Tommy Gun can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Table: Tommy Gun Ownership Requirements

References

• "The Tommy Gun: A History of the Thompson Submachine Gun" by Richard H. Hoffman
• "Tommy Gun: The Most Famous Gun in the World" by David C. Jones
• "NFA Weapons: A Guide to the National Firearms Act" by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)