What Weapons Can a Felon Own in Washington State?
Washington state has specific laws regulating the possession and ownership of weapons by felons. As a felon, it is essential to understand the laws and regulations regarding the types of weapons you are allowed to own and possess. In this article, we will explore the various weapons that a felon can own in Washington state and the legal requirements that come with it.
Felon Firearm Restrictions
In Washington state, a felon is prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under RCW 9.41.040. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. A felon can own or possess a firearm if they have received a pardon or restoration of civil rights. A pardon is a formal declaration that a person’s conviction is null and void, while restoration of civil rights refers to the restoration of certain rights, including the right to possess a firearm.
Long Guns
Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, are not considered firearms and are not subject to the same restrictions as handguns. A felon can own and possess long guns without a background check or any other restrictions. However, it is still illegal for a felon to purchase or receive a long gun from a licensed dealer without a background check.
| Type of Long Gun | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Rifles | None |
| Shotguns | None |
| Semi-automatic rifles | No restrictions |
Handguns
Handguns are considered firearms and are subject to stricter regulations. A felon cannot purchase or receive a handgun from a licensed dealer without a background check. However, a felon can own and possess a handgun that was lawfully obtained before the felony conviction.
| Type of Handgun | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Handguns | Background check required to purchase or receive from licensed dealer |
| Semi-automatic handguns | Background check required to purchase or receive from licensed dealer |
Short-Barreled Shotguns
Short-barreled shotguns, which are defined as shotguns with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, are considered firearms and are subject to the same restrictions as handguns. A felon cannot purchase or receive a short-barreled shotgun from a licensed dealer without a background check.
| Type of Short-Barreled Shotgun | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Short-barreled shotguns | Background check required to purchase or receive from licensed dealer |
Other Weapons
Other weapons, such as knives, daggers, and billy clubs, are not considered firearms and are not subject to the same restrictions. A felon can own and possess these types of weapons without any restrictions.
| Type of Other Weapon | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Knives | None |
| Daggers | None |
| Billy clubs | None |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a felon in Washington state can own and possess certain types of weapons, including long guns, short-barreled shotguns, and other weapons. However, there are certain restrictions and regulations that must be followed, including background checks and registration requirements. It is essential to understand the laws and regulations regarding the possession and ownership of weapons in Washington state to avoid legal consequences.
