So You Want a Magazine That Holds More Ammo Than a Bagel Holds Cream Cheese? In New York? Buckle Up.
Ah, New York. The city that never sleeps, the land of Broadway dreams...and apparently, a place with some pretty strict rules about how much ammo your magazine can hold. That's right, folks, in the Empire State, cramming 15 rounds into a magazine is about as legal as jaywalking with a pizza in each hand (trust me, you do not want that cheese dripping).
| Can I Own A 15 Round Magazine In New York |
But Why? The Lowdown on the Law
Now, before you start picturing secret police confiscating your carefully curated collection of Pez dispensers (hey, those little hats are valuable!), let's break it down. Back in 2013, the NY SAFE Act basically said "hasta la vista" to magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition. So, unless you have a time machine (and some serious stockpiling skills), owning a 15-round magazine in New York is a no-no.
There is, however, a silver lining for those who already owned these "high-capacity" magazines before the law changed. You can keep them, but under tight restrictions. They can't leave your house for a sleepover at your friend's place, and they definitely can't go on a joyride upstate.
Basically, those pre-ban magazines are like your grandma's embarrassing vacation photos: best kept hidden away.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Exceptions: Who Gets to Play With the Fun Stuff?
Now, there are always exceptions, right? Like, maybe there's a secret society of ammo wranglers who get to use these forbidden mags. Well, not exactly a secret society, but there are some folks exempt from the high-capacity magazine ban. Law enforcement and certain license holders are good to go, but for the average Joe (or Josephine), it's 10 rounds or less.
So, unless you wear a badge or have some serious licensing love going on, stick to the 10-round mags.
FAQ: Your Burning Magazine Capacity Questions Answered (with pizzazz!)
1. How to know if my magazine is legal in New York?
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
Easy there, Sherlock. If it holds more than 10 rounds and you didn't own it before January 15th, 2013, consider it a fancy paperweight.
2. How can I get a license for high-capacity magazines in New York?
record scratch Nope. Unless you're exempt by profession (see above), getting a special license for these mags isn't a thing in New York.
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
3. Is there a way to modify a high-capacity magazine to make it legal?
Maybe, but it's probably easier to just use a 10-round magazine. Play it safe and consult a licensed gunsmith if you're really set on modifying one.
4. What happens if I'm caught with a high-capacity magazine in New York?
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
This is a big no-no that could lead to some serious legal trouble. Don't risk it.
5. Where can I learn more about New York's gun laws?
Great question! The New York State Police website is a good resource https://gunsafety.ny.gov/.