What are the gun laws concerning black powder in New Mexico?

Answer 1

The Federal Laws governing firearms do not classify muzzleloaders as a "firearm" , and in most states you can buy one with no paperwork or background check. However that does not make it technically legal for a felon to poses it. I have read of cases pertaining to this where the person was hassled at great expense in time and money by local law enforcement regardless of the intended use, only to be convicted on possession of explosives charges for having black powder. The "best practice" I have heard of is obtaining a waiver from BATFE or your local jurisdiction so you have paper in hand showing proof of legal possession, after all it is not worth your time, money or potential freedom dealing with an over zealous prosecutor or non gun friendly jurisdiction when a simple document could prevent it. This topic has been discussed at length for years both pro and con, and what it boils down to is a case by case determination. You can go to free advice.com ( http://forum.freeadvice.com/other-crimes-federal-state-4/ex-felons-black-powder-weapons-legal-386903.html) or better yet to the BATF site ( http://www.atf.gov/firearms/index.htm) and get a more direct answer for your state and county, but the best advice would be to speak to an authority in your state or to BATFE to be 100% sure.

Answer 2

as of now, a felon can possess and use a blackpowder rifle or shotgun in new york but it is illegal in New York City and perhaps albany, buffalo and rochester. a felon may possess a blackpowder pistol as long as there is no intent to shoot it. a felon can't possess a blackpowder pistol and the powder and bullets that go with it. i have read that new york is now trying to regulate blackpowder rifles and shotguns just as they do with smokeless powder firearms.

Another View: Under US Code, Title 18, black powder weapons are specifically named as among the classification of firearms that are prohibited to convicted felons.

Answer 3

The NRA-ILA website has an extensive search-able data base of federal and state laws, That would be a good place to start. Also your local gun shop would know if there are any local laws that amend or differ from state laws.

Answer 4

Depends on the BP rifle and NY's definition of BP.