What Weapons are Illegal in Arizona?
Arizona is known for its tough gun laws, with some restrictions on certain weapons. While gun rights are heavily protected in the state, there are certain weapons that are illegal to own, possess, or transport in Arizona. In this article, we’ll break down what weapons are illegal in Arizona and why.
Firearms and Destructive Devices
According to Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3102, "firearms" are defined as "any handgun, rifle, shotgun, machine gun, submachine gun, semiautomatic rifle, and all components thereof, and ammunition, and armor piercing ammunition, and explosive, smoke or incendiary projectile". Under this definition, the following weapons are considered illegal in Arizona:
- Machine guns: defined as firearms that can fire more than one shot without manual reloading, unless manufactured before 1986 (ARS 13-3102.A).
- Short-barreled shotguns: defined as shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches (ARS 13-3102.E).
- Destructive devices: defined as "any device designed, made, or adapted primarily for the discharge of destructive rays or particles" (ARS 13-3102.F).
Restricted Handguns
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3105, the following types of handguns are restricted or illegal:
- High-capacity magazines: defined as magazines that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition (ARS 13-3105.A).
- Crimson traceless weapon: defined as any device that enhances the visibility of a person, unless designed for medical purposes (ARS 13-3105.B).
- Nunchaku: defined as any length of chain, rope, or wire attached to a closed club, unless designed for exercise or martial arts purposes (ARS 13-3105.C).
Knives and Daggers
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3107, the following types of knives are restricted or illegal:
- Switchblades: defined as knives that have a spring-loaded blade, unless designed for food processing (ARS 13-3107.A).
- Flick knives: defined as knives with a retractable blade, unless designed for food processing (ARS 13-3107.B).
- Gravity knives: defined as knives with a folding blade, unless designed for food processing (ARS 13-3107.C).
Other Prohibited Items
In addition to the weapons listed above, Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3115 prohibits the following items:
- Imitation weapons: any toy, look-alike, or fake weapon that could reasonably be mistaken for a real weapon (ARS 13-3115.A).
- Flamethrowers: any device designed to produce a flame for the purpose of using as a weapon (ARS 13-3115.B).
- Gadgets or contraptions: any device designed to enhance the carrying or use of a weapon (ARS 13-3115.C).
Table of Prohibited Weapons in Arizona
| Weapon | ARS Section | Definition/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Machine guns | 13-3102.A | Cannot fire more than one shot without manual reloading |
| Short-barreled shotguns | 13-3102.E | Barrel length of less than 18 inches |
| Destructive devices | 13-3102.F | Designed to discharge destructive rays or particles |
| High-capacity magazines | 13-3105.A | Holds more than 10 rounds of ammunition |
| Crimson traceless weapon | 13-3105.B | Enhances visibility, not for medical purposes |
| Nunchaku | 13-3105.C | Designed for martial arts, not for fighting |
| Switchblades | 13-3107.A | Has a spring-loaded blade |
| Flick knives | 13-3107.B | Has a retractable blade |
| Gravity knives | 13-3107.C | Has a folding blade |
| Imitation weapons | 13-3115.A | Could reasonably be mistaken for a real weapon |
| Flamethrowers | 13-3115.B | Designed to produce a flame as a weapon |
| Gadgets or contraptions | 13-3115.C | Enhances carrying or use of a weapon |
Consequences of Violating Arizona Weapons Laws
It is crucial to note that violations of Arizona weapons laws can result in serious consequences, including:
- Criminal charges: misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the nature of the violation.
- Penalties: fines, imprisonment, or both.
- Losing gun rights: certain convictions can result in the loss of your right to possess or purchase firearms.
- Criminal justice costs: additional expenses associated with legal proceedings, court appearances, and other legal obligations.
In conclusion, while gun rights are heavily protected in Arizona, there are certain weapons that are illegal to own, possess, or transport in the state. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the state’s laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues or consequences. If you are unsure about any weapon’s legality in Arizona, it is always best to consult with a legal expert or law enforcement authorities.
