What Weapons are Illegal in Missouri?
Missouri, like many other states in the United States, has laws regulating the possession, sale, and use of certain weapons. These laws are designed to protect public safety and prevent the misuse of weapons. In this article, we will explore the weapons that are illegal in Missouri and provide guidance on what you can and cannot possess in the state.
Federal Firearms Laws
Before we dive into Missouri’s specific laws, it’s essential to understand the federal firearms laws that apply to all states. The federal government regulates the sale, possession, and use of firearms through the Gun Control Act of 1968 and the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Under federal law, it is illegal to:
- Sell or possess a firearm if you are under 18 years old (except for certain rifles and shotguns)
- Sell or possess a firearm if you have been convicted of a felony or have a pending felony charge
- Sell or possess a firearm if you have been adjudicated as mentally defective or have a pending mental health commitment
- Sell or possess a firearm if you are an illegal alien
- Possess a firearm in a school zone or a federal facility
Missouri State Laws
In addition to federal laws, Missouri has its own set of laws regulating weapons. The state’s laws are designed to be more lenient than federal laws, but still aim to promote public safety. Here are some key weapons that are illegal in Missouri:
1. Automatic Weapons
Illegal: Fully automatic weapons, such as machine guns, are illegal in Missouri, except for those registered prior to May 1986.
2. Short-Barreled Shotguns
Illegal: Short-barreled shotguns, defined as those with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, are illegal in Missouri.
3. Sawed-Off Shotguns
Illegal: Sawed-off shotguns, defined as those with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, are illegal in Missouri.
4. Concealed Firearms without a Permit
Illegal: Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit is illegal in Missouri, except for active-duty law enforcement officers.
5. Prohibited Persons
Illegal: Certain individuals, including those convicted of a felony, those with a mental health commitment, and those who are subject to a domestic violence restraining order, are prohibited from possessing firearms in Missouri.
6. Silencers
Illegal: Silencers, also known as mufflers or sound suppressors, are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for hunting or target shooting.
7. Short-Barreled Rifles
Illegal: Short-barreled rifles, defined as those with a barrel length of less than 16 inches, are illegal in Missouri.
8. Explosive Devices
Illegal: Explosive devices, such as grenades and fireworks, are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for hunting or agricultural purposes.
9. Stun Guns
Illegal: Stun guns, also known as electric stun guns, are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for self-defense.
Table: Missouri’s Illegal Weapons
| Weapon | Illegal? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic Weapons | Yes | Fully automatic weapons are illegal in Missouri, except for those registered prior to May 1986. |
| Short-Barreled Shotguns | Yes | Short-barreled shotguns are illegal in Missouri. |
| Sawed-Off Shotguns | Yes | Sawed-off shotguns are illegal in Missouri. |
| Concealed Firearms without a Permit | Yes | Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit is illegal in Missouri, except for active-duty law enforcement officers. |
| Prohibited Persons | Yes | Certain individuals are prohibited from possessing firearms in Missouri. |
| Silencers | Yes | Silencers are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for hunting or target shooting. |
| Short-Barreled Rifles | Yes | Short-barreled rifles are illegal in Missouri. |
| Explosive Devices | Yes | Explosive devices are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for hunting or agricultural purposes. |
| Stun Guns | Yes | Stun guns are illegal in Missouri, except for those used for self-defense. |
Penalties for Illegal Weapons
Violating Missouri’s laws regarding illegal weapons can result in severe penalties, including:
- Fines: Up to $5,000
- Imprisonment: Up to 7 years
- Suspension of Firearm Rights: Up to 5 years
Conclusion
Missouri has laws regulating the possession, sale, and use of certain weapons to promote public safety. Understanding what weapons are illegal in Missouri is crucial to avoid legal consequences. Remember that federal laws also apply, and it’s essential to be aware of both state and federal laws when it comes to weapons.
