you did not ask a question that is specific enough to answer without great length to cover federal and all 50 states as well as all municipalities.
It is FEDERAL Law that classifies black powder weapons as firearms. . . and therefore, prohibited to convicted felons.
Black powder guns are not federally controlled and can be shipped by mail to you. There are a few places (mostly major cities that do restrict black powder, it is always best to check with local law enforcement first. You don't need a yard full of black suburbans and guys in jumpsuits.
You need to ask a lawyer who is familiar with firearms law.
You need to find a lawyer who is familiar with firearms law to get a correct answer.
No, Federal Law states that you must be 21 to own a pistol, 18 for a rifle. I have been told you must be 21 to own any black powder weapons ( including muskets) too.
In most states the carry laws are the same for black powder as any other weapon. The NRA-ILA website has an extensive data base that may help for your area, or the local law enforcement officials are a good place to inquire.
You need to find a lawyer who is familiar with firearms law and explain your situation.
You may have to check with your individual state of residence. However, be advised that Federal statutes (US Code, Title 18) specifically describes and defines black powder arms as "firearms" under the law.
The NRA web sight www.nra.org has links that can answer for sure, but I know here in FL there can not be a gun in the same residence as a felon, black powder or not. Check out the sight for sure, they have up to the second info an the subject.
There is a strong likelihood that it does not have one. Serial numbers were not required by law on rifles and shotguns until 1968. If the shotgun is a muzzle loader that uses loose powder and shot, it is considered an antique firearm under Federal law, and is not required to have a serial number.
Your local police would be a place to find out. Or go to a Gun shop where there aint crooked people
State law has nothing to do with it. It is a FEDERAL offense for a convicted felon to own or possess a firearm or ammunition of ANY type, ANY where, for ANY reason. (US Code, Title 18). It is not a FEDERAL offense to own BLACK POWDER pistols or rifles, if you are a felon. They are NOT considered FIREARMS as long as they represent such guns manufactured prior to early 1900, are muzzle loaders, cap and ball, flintlock, known as percussion guns. A replica such as a Colt 1851/1858 .44 cal revolver, cap and ball, black powder gun is NOT considered a FIREARM. None of the black powder guns, either pistol or rifle are considered FIREARMS. per code of federal regulations , and the ATF. Even a Federal Felon, can own a black powder gun, in most States. Even though the respective State is in error if they deny a Felon the right to own and shoot a BLACK POWDER gun, most felons challenging the States decision to deny, will find a long and expensive court battle. There are less than a half dozen States that do not recognize the Federal Law view that black powder guns are NOT FIREARMS. So if you are a felon, don't be in one of those States if you intend on owning a black powder rifle or pistol. Mail order,buy at a gun show or private individual, and have some fun shooting black powder.