Can a felon use a muzzleloader in mn?

Answer 1

Minnesota allows hunting with muzzleloaders and does not restrict ownership of muzzleloading firearms. There are restrictions specific to hunting by season and area, check the current edition of the DNR hunting handbook.

Answer 2

A muzzleloader is considered a antique firearm in Minnesota, and is also addressed on the federal level. It is not considered a firearm, and can be used from a felon.

antique Firearms as they pertain to Federal Law are any firearm manufactured before 1899 or any replica, whether or not they fire cartridges or are muzzle loaders. Antiques or muzzle loaders are outside the jurisdiction of the ATF and can be legally possessed by felons from a federal standpoint. It is important to note, however that every state has different laws in reference to firearms. For example, you could be convicted of a minor federal felony and possess a muzzle loading rifle and be free from federal prosecution, in the state of Wisconsin you could be subject to a state felon in possession charge, but in Missouri you'd be fine. If you have a felony conviction it's important to check your state laws specific to antiques and replicas if wish to hunt with or shoot black powder weapons.

ANOTHER VIEW: The applicable and controlling federal statute for convicted felons is NOT the definition contained in the ATF Statutes. It is in US Criminal Code - US Code, Title 18, Para's 921 and 922.

Felons ARE not prohibited from owning GENUINE antique muzzleloaders or EXACT replicas. NOTE THAT THE DEFINING ADJECTIVE IS REPLICA!

A modern muzzle-loader is not a REPLICA of an antique muzzleloader, just because they share a similar method of ignition, any more than a Shelby Cobra is a replica of a Model-T, just because they both have 4 tires and a steering wheel.

ALSO: Black powder is an explosive. Under the same criminal code statute convicted felons are prohibited from possessing EXPLOSIVES.

BOTTOM LINE: Although SOME states do restore partial firearms rights to convicted felons, be certain to check carefully with your state's authorities on this question.

AND - if your state grants such an exception be advised that it is not transferrable to any other state. Do not attempt to 'carry' out of your state or you will be subject to arrest and prosecution.