It is commonly known that there are laws pertaining to the possession of a firearm, but each state also has separate laws regarding other illegal weapons.
What are Illegal Weapons?
Each state has broad latitude to determine what weapons are illegal within its borders. A few common examples are:
- Ballistic knifes,
- Belt buckle knifes,
- Cane swords,
- Billy clubs,
- Large-capacity ammunition magazines,
- Ammunition with or containing an explosive agent,
- Camouflaging firearm container,
- Any gun not immediately recognizable as a firearm, or
- Metallic knuckles.
What Acts Violate an Illegal Weapon Law?
Each state is free to choose, and most illegal weapon laws make a variety of activities illegal. They can range from:
- Manufacturing or causing illegal weapons to be manufactured,
- Importing illegal weapons into a state,
- Selling or keeping illegal weapons for sale,
- Giving or lending illegal weapons, and
- Possession of an illegal weapon.
Are There any Exemptions from Illegal Weapon Laws?
Each state has its own exemptions for violations of its illegal weapon law, but most include:
- Police departments, the Department of Justice, the Armed forces, or any of their authorized agents,
- Licensed self defense schools,
- Antiques, relics, and instruments used in a collection,
- The use during motion pictures, television or video production, or
- Forensic laboratories.
What are the Consequences for Violating an Illegal Weapon Law?
If you violate an illegal weapon law, you have generally committed a felony and could face criminal punishment that can range from:
- Jail time, from 1 to 5 years,
- Fines, from $100 to $10,000,
- Community service, or
- Loss of driver’s license.
Do I Need an Attorney if I Have Violated an Illegal Weapon Law?
If you are charged with violating a state’s illegal weapon law, it is highly recommended that you contact a criminal lawyer. Only they will be able to fully explain the issues and assist in your defense.
