Buying a Rifle or Shotgun in Maryland: How It Differs From a Handgun

Buying a long gun in Maryland is simpler than buying a handgun, but there are still rules. Here's how they differ, from American Redneck Munitions, a licensed FFL dealer in Owings, MD.

Handguns Are "Regulated Firearms"; Most Long Guns Aren't

Maryland law treats handguns, and certain assault-style firearms or copies of them, as "regulated firearms." Those require a Handgun Qualification License for handguns, the MSP 77R application, and a 7-day wait. Most standard hunting and sporting rifles and shotguns are not regulated firearms, so those extra state steps don't apply to them.

What Still Applies to Rifles and Shotguns

• ATF Form 4473 and a federal NICS background check for every dealer transfer.

• Federal law: you must be at least 18 to buy a rifle or shotgun from a dealer (21 for a handgun).

• Our $30 FFL transfer fee if the gun is shipped to us from another seller.

Watch Out for Banned and Copycat Models

Some semi-automatic rifles and shotguns meet Maryland's "assault weapon" or "copycat weapon" definitions, which look at features like detachable magazines combined with a folding stock or flash suppressor, fixed magazines over 10 rounds, or a rifle under 29 inches overall. Many of these can't be sold in Maryland at all. Before you buy out of state, send us the make and model and we'll tell you whether we can transfer it.

Buying a Handgun Instead?

Start with our Maryland HQL guide and the step-by-step Maryland buying guide.

Questions? Call 844-915-4867 or email Ricky@TheAmericanRedneckCompany.com. You can also browse our firearms.

This is general information, not legal advice. Maryland and federal rules change; confirm current requirements with the Maryland State Police before you buy.