Transferring and Transporting an AR-15: What You Need to Know for a Smooth Move
Buying a firearm such as an AR-15 involves much more than simply purchasing it and carrying it around. The legal process and considerations for moving from one state to another bring up unique challenges that require a detailed understanding of the laws in both states.
Is Moving from WA to UT Legal with Your AR-15?
If you're considering moving from Washington (WA) to Utah and taking your AR-15 with you, the short answer is no. It's a legal grey area, as WA has recently banned the sale of this and similar style rifles, and you would have to deal with interstate transport laws.
The reality is that carrying any kind of firearm, especially such a versatile and popular model like the AR-15, comes with significant responsibilities. This includes ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal laws. If you still want to proceed, it's important to understand the key legal and logistical considerations.
Why Can't You Bring It Across State Lines?
From a legal standpoint, the DEA and ATF clearly outline the process and restrictions for transporting firearms across state lines. Interstate transport requires careful planning and compliance with federal laws, as well as state-specific requirements.
In the case of moving from WA to UT, you would need to:
Contact the local law enforcement in both WA and UT to understand the specific requirements and restrictions.
Check with the individual sheriff departments of the counties you will be traveling through to ensure you are following all local laws.
Be prepared to prove your legal ownership of the firearm and your intent to comply with all laws in both states.
Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to legal complications and penalties, including fines and potential arrest.
Prepare and Plan Your Transport
Based on personal experience, here are some tips for safely and legally transporting an AR-15 across state lines:
Call Ahead: Contact the state police and sheriffs offices of the counties you will travel through to clarify the legal requirements.
Obtain Proper Permits: Ensure you have all the necessary permits and documentation for your firearm. This includes a copy of your dealer's copy of the transfer form (DA-44).
Secure the Firearm: Properly secure the AR-15 in a case to prevent accidents or damage during transport. Follow the specific guidelines provided by the ATF regarding interstate transport.
Travel with Caution: Adhere to all traffic laws and proceed with caution, especially in areas with strict gun regulations.
When traveling through states with less strict firearm laws, such as Texas, individual states have their own regulations to follow. For instance, prior to a recent trip from Missouri to Texas, I confirmed with local authorities that I could legally transport my AR-15 across multiple state lines, provided I followed the constitution and stayed clear of areas with heightened restrictions.
Disambiguating AR-15 and Full Automatic/Burst Automatic Weapons
The AR-15, as a commercially manufactured firearm, was originally designed for military use and later adapted for civilian needs. It includes both semi-automatic and select-fire variants. However, fully automatic or burst automatic weapons like the AR-15 Full Auto are strictly regulated and require* special permits and extensive paperwork.
The select fire AR-15 is a semi-automatic version which, while capable of selective fire modes, is still governed by the National Firearms Act (NFA) and requires additional procedures for interstate transport, especially when crossing state boundaries with varying gun regulation policies.
Interestingly, the Armalite Rifle AR-15 was originally designed in 1956 and has undergone many iterations and manufacturers since then. As of 1978, third parties have been able to produce gas impingement weapons, but they are required to avoid calling their weapons an AR-15. It will be fascinating to see how this trademark influence evolves over time.
* Note: While I did not provide a deep dive into the specific legal requirements for fully automatic or burst automatic weapons, it is important to seek professional legal advice if you are considering owning such a weapon to comply with all federal and state restrictions.
Conclusion
Moving with an AR-15 (for the semi-automatic version, at least) across state lines involves a complex set of legal and logistical requirements. Understanding the laws and regulations in both your current and destination states will ensure a smooth transition and compliance with all legal obligations. Always consult with local law enforcement and follow all applicable statutes to avoid any legal complications.
Keywords
AR-15, Interstate Transport, Gun Laws