Where Can I Buy A Fully Automatic Gun | 2026 Update |
Only those weapons already registered with the ATF before this 1986 date can be legally bought and sold between private citizens.
Ownership is only permitted in states that do not have their own bans on automatic weapons. Approximately 35 states allow private ownership, while others, like New York and Delaware, prohibit it. where can i buy a fully automatic gun
You cannot have felony convictions, certain domestic violence misdemeanors, or other disqualifying factors (e.g., being an unlawful drug user or having a dishonorable military discharge). Can You Own a Fully Automatic Weapon Legally? Only those weapons already registered with the ATF
In the United States, purchasing a fully automatic firearm (a "machine gun") is legal but governed by extremely tight federal regulations, high costs, and lengthy wait times. 1. The Legal Framework: "The 1986 Cut-Off" You cannot have felony convictions
Under the of 1986, it is illegal for civilians to possess or transfer any machine gun manufactured after May 19, 1986 .
You must be at least 21 years old and a legal resident of the U.S..
Newer models (manufactured after May 1986) are generally reserved for military, law enforcement, or specialized licensed dealers (FFL holders with an SOT). 2. Eligibility Requirements To legally buy a transferable machine gun, you must:
