So You Want a Pew-Pew Party Machine in Washington? A Guide (Because Let's Face It, Regular Guns Are So Manual)
Ever dreamt of owning a firearm that lets you unleash your inner action hero with the simple squeeze of a trigger? You know, the kind that makes bad guys look like Swiss cheese (metaphorically, of course... please don't use a fully automatic weapon on actual cheese)? Well, if you live in Washington state, buckle up, because this ain't exactly a shoot-'em-up free-for-all.
Can You Have Fully Automatic Gun In Washington State |
The Law Lays Down the Law (And It's Not Wearing a Tiny Cowboy Hat)
Here's the gist: In Washington, owning a fully automatic weapon, also known as a machine gun, is a big no-no for most folks. We're talking about guns that fire continuously with a single pull of the trigger, not your average semi-automatic that needs a trigger pull for each bullet.
This law applies to any machine gun manufactured after July 1, 1994. Basically, unless you have a time machine or inherited a vault full of pre-ban goodies from your gangster grandpa, owning a fully automatic weapon is likely a dream reserved for late-night action movie marathons.
Why the Big Fuss?
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
There's a reason why Washington and many other places have restrictions on fully automatic firearms. These guns are designed for serious firepower, and in the wrong hands, well, let's just say things could get messy (and fast).
Now for the Exceptions (Because There's Always a Loophole... Maybe)
Now, hold on to your hats, because there is a tiny, teeny tiny chance you might be able to own a pre-ban machine gun. But here's the catch:
- You'll need a federal license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), which involves a whole lot of paperwork, background checks, and enough waiting to make a sloth seem impatient.
- Owning a pre-ban machine gun also comes with a hefty price tag. We're talking about investing more than a fancy sports car, so get ready to loosen those purse strings (or sharpen your bartering skills).
Basically, unless you're a licensed collector or have a secret vault filled with diamonds, owning a fully automatic weapon in Washington is a non-starter.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
FAQ: Fully Automatic Fun in Washington State (Spoiler Alert: It's Not Very Fun)
How to channel your inner action hero?
There are plenty of exciting and safe ways to get your adrenaline pumping! Try paintball, tactical laser tag, or even take a self-defense class.
How to learn more about Washington gun laws?
Tip: Reread sections you didn’t fully grasp.
The Washington State Department of Licensing website is a great resource https://dol.wa.gov/professional-licenses?combine=&field_category_target_id=24.
How to own a firearm legally in Washington?
You'll need to pass a background check and complete a safety course. Check out the DOL website for details https://dol.wa.gov/professional-licenses?combine=&field_category_target_id=24.
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
How to be a responsible gun owner?
Always store your firearms safely and securely, follow gun safety rules at all times, and only use them for legal purposes.
How to avoid accidentally becoming a real-life action hero (because let's be honest, it's messy)?
Maybe leave the fully automatic fantasies to the movies and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with responsible gun ownership (or no gun ownership at all!).