What Weapons Are Illegal to Own in Louisiana?

LOUISIANA - Louisiana is known for having some pretty relaxed gun laws compared with other states. But that doesn't mean you can legally own or carry absolutely anything you want.

There are certain weapons that are prohibited, firearms that come with special legal requirements, and situations where owning a weapon is perfectly legal but carrying it could get you into trouble.

So, what weapons are illegal to own in Louisiana? And are things like machine guns, silencers, switchblades, and brass knuckles legal?

The answer depends on the type of weapon, how it's regulated under state and federal law, and sometimes even where you're carrying it.

Here's a closer look at what Louisiana law says.

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Are There Weapons You Cannot Legally Own in Louisiana?

Yes. Louisiana law specifically restricts certain weapons and explosive devices. Some of those restrictions apply to everyone, while others depend on federal registration requirements or a person's criminal history.

One important thing to know...A weapon being regulated does not automatically mean it's completely illegal to own. Some firearms may be legally possessed if the owner meets the right requirements.

I know, it kind of sounds clear as mud, but let's try to clear things up as best as we can.

1. Machine Guns

Heavy machine gun with ammunition belt on tripod

Machine guns are one of the clearest examples of a weapon that is heavily restricted under Louisiana law.

Louisiana Revised Statute 40:1752 generally prohibits "manufacturing, transferring, or possessing a machine gun in Louisiana". However, the law includes an exception for machine guns that are lawfully manufactured, transferred, or possessed under federal law, along with certain government-related exceptions.

Machine guns are restricted, but Louisiana's statute includes an exception for firearms lawfully possessed under federal law.

You can read the law in more detail at law.justia.com.

2. Bombs and Certain Explosive Devices

Under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:54.3, knowingly and intentionally manufacturing or possessing a bomb without the required license is illegal.

Louisiana also regulates the possession, storage, handling, and use of explosives. Louisiana Revised Statute 40:1472.4 generally requires a valid license to possess explosives, with limited exceptions.

READ MORE: Can You Get a Ticket for Hanging Something From Your Car Mirror?

Obvisouly, there are licenses granted for explosives for specific circumstances for things like demolition and excavation, but that's pretty much where it ends, for obvious reasons.

3. Firearms That Have Not Met Federal Requirements

These can include certain short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, machine guns, and other weapons regulated by the National Firearms Act.

Louisiana law also addresses the possession of firearms that have not been registered or transferred in accordance with federal requirements.

In other words, a firearm that might be legally obtainable under certain circumstances can become illegal to possess if the required federal process hasn't been followed.

Some firearms that fall under federal requirements -

Shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches.
Rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches.
Certain rifles or shotguns modified to an overall length shorter than 26 inches.

These aren't necessarily flat out illegal to own, but they are subject to special legal requirements.

4. Firearms With Removed or Altered Serial Number

This one is pretty cut and dry.

Being able to identify a firearm is important, and Louisiana law addresses firearms with obliterated or altered identification marks. If you're buying a used firearm, it's a good idea to make sure it has not been tampered with.

READ MORE: Is It Legal to Flash Your Headlights to Warn About Police?

Are Switchblades Illegal in Louisiana?

There is a lot of outdated information floating around online about switchblades and other types of knives. Based on the current Louisiana statutes, there does not appear to be a blanket statewide law banning owning a switchblade.

That doesn't mean every knife can be carried anywhere or used however someone wants. General weapons laws and restrictions on carrying dangerous weapons in certain locations can still apply.

Are Brass Knuckles Illegal in Louisiana?

MileA

Brass knuckles are another item that often shows up on lists of supposedly illegal weapons.

However, the Louisiana statutes do not list a general statewide ban on simply possessing brass knuckles.

As with knives, the circumstances surrounding possession and carrying can matter. A weapon that is legal to own may still create a legal problem if it's carried or used in a prohibited way.

If you're unsure whether a particular weapon is legal, don't rely on a social media post or an old list you found online. Check the current Louisiana statutes and federal requirements, or speak with a qualified attorney who handles firearms law.