What are federal laws for antique guns?

Answer 1

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.

Also note that, while an antique rifle or shotgun is not a firearm and not subject to regulation, to cut it down to a handgun constitutes "making a weapon from a rifle/shotgun," and violates the National Firearms Act. You may change barrels, stocks, etc, as long as the receiver or frame is original. Changing the type of weapon is illegal.

If you are a felon, please check with an attorney before attempting to have any kind of firearm.

Answer 2

My understanding is that there is an absolute ban on felons owning any kind of firearm in federal law. It doesn't matter if it's black powder, a curio and relic, or it was left to you by grandpa. If a bullet can come out the barrel, it's not legal to own by a felon under federal law. You can have an attorney research this for you, or you can check the website for the Bureau of Alcohol,Tobacco,Firearms,and Explosives.(BATFE)

Answer 3

You need to talk to a lawyer for a correct, current and legal answer.

Added: US Code, Title 18, Para's: 921 & 922 address this question. Briefly: It must be a genuine antique, manufactured prior to 1898, or an EXACT replica of such a weapon.

Answer 4

There are a LOT of Federal Laws- but you are probably looking for Title 18, US Code, Section 922, which defines antique firearm. An "antique firearm" is one made BEFORE 1 Jan 1899, OR a gun that uses loose powder and ball (such as a muzzle loader or ball and cap revolver) no matter when made, IF that gun is not "readily convertible" to fire modern cartridge ammo. Antique firearms are not subject to most of the 1968 Gun Control Act provisions- they can be shipped across state lines without going through a dealer, can be mailed in US Mail, etc. The manufactured date is for THAT gun, not that model. A Winchester 1894 made in 94 through 99 is an antique- the same rifle made in 1899 is NOT.