Weapons and the Law: How Many Firearms Can You Legally Own?
One of the most common questions among both new and seasoned gun owners is: How many firearms can I legally own? The answer may seem simple, but it’s actually layered with legal nuance, depending heavily on your country, state, or even local jurisdiction. While some areas have no limit, others enforce strict regulations on ownership, types of weapons, and how they must be stored. Understanding these laws is essential for staying within your rights while remaining a responsible gun owner.
No Federal Limit in the U.S.
In the United States, federal law does not limit the number of firearms a person can own. Whether you possess one pistol for self-defense or a collection of dozens of rifles, federal regulations focus more on how weapons are purchased and transferred than on the quantity you own. However, all gun buyers must pass a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), unless they purchase from a private seller where exemptions may apply, depending on the state.
State and Local Restrictions
While the federal government doesn’t cap the number of firearms, state and local governments might. Some states and cities have implemented their own firearm ownership laws to address concerns over gun violence and public safety. For example:
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California has strict laws around firearm registration and bans certain types of weapons, like “assault weapons,” without special permits.
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New York enforces magazine capacity limits and requires firearm licenses for both pistols and rifles in certain areas.
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Hawaii requires all firearms to be registered with local law enforcement and limits magazine capacities.
In contrast, states like Texas, Arizona, and Alaska tend to have fewer restrictions and generally support broader firearm rights, including open and concealed carry.
Special Categories: NFA Firearms
When discussing limits, it’s important to consider weapons regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA)—this includes machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), silencers (suppressors), and certain explosive devices. These weapons are not banned outright, but require more rigorous steps for legal ownership, including:
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Filing ATF Form 4
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Passing an extended background check
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Paying a $200 tax stamp per item
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Registering each item with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Although there’s no numerical limit here either, these requirements serve as deterrents to mass accumulation of NFA items.
International Laws Vary Greatly
Outside the U.S., firearm ownership is typically more restrictive. In countries like Japan or the United Kingdom, private gun ownership is tightly regulated, and most citizens are limited to a very small number of firearms, often for sporting purposes only. Background checks, mental health evaluations, and mandatory training are standard in many nations.
The Bottom Line
So, how many firearms can you legally own? In most parts of the U.S., as many as you can responsibly handle and store—as long as you’re following all federal, state, and local regulations. But legal ownership isn’t just about quantity. It’s about accountability, safety, and understanding the law. Always check your local statutes, and when in doubt, consult with a qualified attorney or firearms expert.