Air Gun Laws in Missouri: Your Definitive Guide in 2023

Did you know that in the state of Missouri, there are specific regulations for owning or planning to own an air gun? Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone who owns or plans to own a suitable firearm. The history of Air Gun Laws in Missouri includes regulations for rifles, pistols, and certain weapons, with various changes and updates over the years.

Missouri’s air gun laws provide an overview of the rights and responsibilities surrounding the possession and use of these firearms, including weapons offenses such as pistols, rifles, and certain weapons. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting out, it’s important to be aware of the rules governing air guns in order to stay on the right side of the law.

By familiarizing yourself with these regulations, including prohibitions and the need for a carry permit, you can ensure a safe and legal experience, especially in places such as schools where consent is required. So let’s dive right in!

Defining Air Gun Laws in Missouri

Air guns, also known as suitable firearms, are regulated under specific laws in Missouri. Understanding these laws is crucial for gun owners and enthusiasts who own rifles and certain weapons, including bullets, to ensure compliance with the state’s regulations.

What constitutes an air gun under Missouri law?

Missouri law defines an air gun as a device that propels a projectile using compressed air or gas, excluding firearms such as missiles, crossbows, rifles, and slingshots that use explosive force from a burning propellant. This includes both pellet guns and BB guns.

Differentiating between firearms and air guns

It is important to differentiate between certain weapons, such as rifles, and air guns in Missouri. While firearms, including rifles, use explosive force, air guns rely on compressed air or gas to propel projectiles. This distinction affects the legal requirements and restrictions placed on each type of weapon, especially in cases of weapons offenses involving missiles.

Understanding the legal status of air guns in the state

In Missouri, the legal status of air guns, including rifles and pistols, falls under specific regulations. Some key points to note include the suitable firearm, bullets, and their respective guidelines.

• Air guns are not considered firearms under state law.
• Individuals aged 18 years or older can possess and use pneumatic guns, firearms, rifles, and other weapons without any special permits or licenses.
• Minors below 18 years old may possess and use an air gun, firearm, rifle, or pistol only when supervised by a parent, guardian, or qualified adult with a carry permit.
• Discharging a firearm or slingshot within city limits may be subject to local ordinances regarding unlawful use.

It is essential to stay informed about any updates or changes to firearm laws as they may vary over time. Familiarizing oneself with the specific regulations ensures responsible ownership and usage of rifles, weapons, and pistols in Missouri.

Remember, always consult official sources or legal professionals for accurate information regarding current laws pertaining to firearm, rifles, pistol, and slingshot in your area.

Pellet Gun Laws in Missouri

In Missouri, there are specific regulations in place regarding firearms, including pellet guns, rifles, and pistols. These laws aim to ensure the safe and responsible use of these air-powered weapons, as well as slingshots. Here’s what you need to know.

Restrictions on Caliber and Velocity

Missouri imposes restrictions on air rifles, a type of projectile weapon. According to Air Gun Laws in Missouri, air rifles with a caliber exceeding .18 inches are considered firearms and subject to the same regulations as traditional firearms. Any air rifle that exceeds a velocity of 700 feet per second is also classified as a firearm.

Permissible Uses and Locations

There are certain rules about where air guns can be used and for what purposes. Here’s an overview of air gun ordinances and the permit required to use them on-premises, as specified in subsection regulations.

• Hunting: Air rifles, crossbows, slingshots, and pistols may be used for hunting small game species such as rabbits or squirrels during designated hunting seasons.
• Target Practice: You can use your air rifles, crossbow, or slingshot for target practice on private property as long as you have permission from the landowner.
• Air rifle shooting ranges: There are shooting ranges across the state where you can safely enjoy shooting your air rifles, slingshots, pistols, and crossbows.

It’s important to note that while some areas allow the use of air rifles or pellet guns, others may have additional local ordinances or restrictions in place for these projectile weapons. Always check with local authorities or consult relevant resources before using your air rifle, firearm, pistol, or any other projectile weapon.

Age Restrictions for Owning Air Guns

In Missouri, there are specific age requirements in place for owning a firearm. It is important to be aware of these restrictions to ensure compliance with the law, especially when it comes to owning a rifle, pistol, or other weapons.

• Minimum age requirements: Individuals must be a certain age to legally own a firearm in Missouri. The minimum age varies depending on the type of firearm and its power. For example, individuals must be at least 18 years old to possess a high-powered rifle, while the minimum age for low-powered pistols is 16 years old.
• Exceptions or exemptions: There may be exceptions or exemptions to the age restrictions for certain individuals when it comes to air gun ordinances. These exceptions could include supervised use of air rifles by minors under adult supervision or participation in organized shooting competitions with a firearm under specific circumstances. Additionally, paintball gun usage may also have its own exceptions or exemptions.
• Consequences for violating age restrictions: Violating the age restrictions related to owning a firearm, such as a rifle or pistol, can have legal consequences. Individuals who are found in possession of a firearm without meeting the minimum age requirement may face penalties such as fines or other legal actions.

It is essential to understand and abide by the laws regarding firearms, including rifles, pistols, and slingshots, in Missouri, including the age restrictions. By doing so, individuals can ensure they are acting within legal boundaries and avoid any potential legal issues that may arise from non-compliance with these regulations.

BB Gun Laws in Missouri

Distinctions between BB guns and other types of air guns under Missouri law

In Missouri, there are specific regulations that distinguish BB guns, rifles, pistols, and slingshots from other types of firearms. It is important to understand these distinctions to ensure compliance with the law.

Under Missouri law, a BB gun is defined as a device that expels projectiles utilizing compressed air or gas, not exceeding .177 caliber. This means that any air gun, such as a rifle or pistol, that falls within this definition is subject to the specific regulations governing firearms and weapons.

Regulations governing the use and possession of BB guns

There are specific air gun ordinances that persons must follow to obtain a permit. These regulations aim to promote safety and prevent misuse of these devices, with the police enforcing compliance.

1. Age restrictions: In Missouri, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess an air rifle, firearm, pistol, or any other projectile weapon without adult supervision.
2. Discharge restrictions: It is generally prohibited to discharge an air rifle or firearm, such as a BB gun or pistol, within city limits unless on private property with permission from the owner.
3. Transportation requirements for firearms, air rifles, pistols, and other weapons: When transporting a BB gun, firearm, or air rifle, it must be unloaded and securely enclosed in a case or container.

It is essential for persons to familiarize themselves with air gun ordinances and adhere to them to avoid any legal issues. Familiarizing oneself with these regulations is crucial for individuals to avoid any legal complications.

Safety measures and precautions associated with BB guns

To ensure the safe usage of air rifles, firearms, and other weapons like bows, it is crucial to take appropriate safety measures and precautions with these BB guns.

1. Eye protection: Always wear protective eyewear when operating or around others using an air rifle or firearm that shoots projectiles, such as BB guns or other weapons.
2. Firearm target awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and ensure there are no unintended targets in the line of fire, especially when using weapons like air rifles that shoot projectiles.
3. Proper handling of an air rifle: Treat a BB gun, a type of firearm, as if it were loaded with projectiles at all times, even when it’s not.
4. Responsible storage: Store your air rifle, firearm, or other weapons in a secure location away from unauthorized access.
5. Firearm education and training: Seek proper education on how to handle and operate a rifle, BB gun, and other weapons safely.

By following these safety measures and precautions, individuals can enjoy the responsible use of firearms, rifles, weapons, bows, and BB guns while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Permits and Carrying Restrictions

In Missouri, there are specific permits and carrying restrictions that individuals need to be aware of when it comes to firearms, rifles, and other weapons. Whether you want to carry or transport a firearm or projectile weapon in public places, certain rules apply. Here’s what you need to know.

• Carry Permit: While a specific carry permit is not required for air guns in Missouri, there are still restrictions and prohibitions on their possession and use.
• Concealed Carry Rules: Concealed carry rules also apply to air guns in Missouri. This means that if you choose to carry an air gun concealed, you must adhere to the same regulations as those carrying certain weapons.
• Loaded or Uncased Air Guns: It is important to note that carrying a loaded or uncased air gun can be subject to limitations. To ensure compliance with the law, it is advisable to transport your air gun in a case or unloaded it when traveling in public areas.

Exemptions

While these restrictions on weapons exist, there are exemptions and endorsements available for a person to use a bow under certain circumstances. For example, a person may be allowed to possess and use a bow if they meet the requirements outlined in the weapons section of the law.

• Carry Endorsement: If you have a valid concealed carry endorsement for firearms, this may extend to include the carrying of air guns as well.
• Premises Restrictions: Some premises may have their own specific ordinances regarding the possession or discharge of air guns. It is essential to be familiar with any local regulations before entering such areas.
• Public Safety Considerations: Ultimately, these laws and restrictions aim to maintain public safety by ensuring responsible conduct.

It is crucial for individuals in Missouri who plan on carrying or transporting a firearm, projectile weapon or bow in public places to understand and abide by the state’s laws regarding permits and carrying restrictions. By doing so, they can avoid potential violations while enjoying their hobby responsibly.

Remember: Stay informed about the latest updates on firearm and weapons laws as they may change over time.

Hunting Regulations for Air Guns

Guidelines for hunting with an air gun in Missouri, including specific game species allowed

In Missouri, hunters can use air guns as weapons for hunting certain game species in the city. The state recognizes air rifles as suitable projectile firearms for hunting purposes. However, it is important for a person to be aware of the specific guidelines and regulations when using an air gun for hunting.

• Only pneumatic guns that propel projectiles through the force of compressed air or gas are permitted for discharge. These guns are considered firearms and are classified as weapons. They should only be used by a responsible person.
• Air guns, also known as firearms, must meet the minimum caliber requirement of .177 inches in order to qualify as projectile weapons.
• Hunters should ensure compliance with all other general hunting regulations while using a firearm, weapons, or projectile to discharge.

Requirements for obtaining a hunting license when using an air gun

To hunt with a firearm or projectile weapon in Missouri, individuals must possess a valid hunting license. This applies to both residents and non-residents. Here are some key points regarding hunting licenses for persons.

1. City residents can obtain a resident permit from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to discharge a spring gun within city limits, in accordance with city code.
2. Non-residents in the city of Missouri need to acquire a non-resident permit from the MDC in order to discharge firearms.
3. Both Missouri code permits for city weapons and air gun ordinances can be obtained online through the MDC website or at authorized vendors throughout the state.

Seasonal restrictions or limitations on hunting with an air gun

It is crucial to be aware of seasonal restrictions and limitations imposed on hunting with a firearm or other projectile weapons in the city of Missouri. These restrictions may vary depending on factors such as game species and location. Some important considerations include the use of firearms and other projectile weapons.

• Deer Hunting: During deer season, hunters must adhere to specific regulations outlined by the MDC, including air gun ordinances, firearm usage, spring gun restrictions, and the proper handling of weapons.
• Other Game Species: Certain game species may have designated seasons or bag limits that apply regardless of the type of firearm used, including spring guns, pellet guns, and other weapons. It is important to be aware of any air gun ordinances that may be in place when hunting these species.

By familiarizing yourself with these guidelines and adhering to them, you can enjoy safe and legal hunting experiences while utilizing a firearm or other weapons, such as an air gun, in the city of Missouri. These guidelines ensure that you engage in responsible handling and usage of projectiles during your hunting activities.

Municipal Regulations in Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri has its own set of additional regulations that govern the use, possession, and discharge of firearms, weapons, and projectiles within city limits. These regulations are specific to Kansas City and may differ from the broader laws outlined by the state of Missouri.

The municipal code of Kansas City addresses the rules and restrictions related to firearm and air gun usage. The city council, in collaboration with the police department and other political subdivisions, has established ordinances securing public safety while allowing for responsible ownership of firearms and projectile weapons.

Some key points regarding municipal regulations in Kansas City, including the Missouri code, include the discharge and possession of weapons, such as spring guns.

• Local ordinances in the Missouri code outline where and when firearms, weapons, and projectiles can be discharged within city limits.
• The Missouri Department of Conservation provides guidelines on hunting with firearms and other projectile weapons in designated areas. These guidelines are important for ensuring safety and following the code of conduct.
• Certain districts or district school boards may have additional restrictions pertaining to firearms, weapons, and projectile possession on their premises within the city.
• Hillsboro is an example of a nearby city that has implemented its own unique provisions for firearm and weapons usage within its jurisdiction.

It is important for residents and visitors alike to familiarize themselves with these local regulations regarding firearms and weapons to ensure compliance with Kansas City’s municipal code. By understanding the specific restrictions imposed by the city, individuals can enjoy responsibly discharging their projectiles from air guns while respecting public safety measures.

Conclusion: Understanding Air Gun Laws in Missouri

In conclusion, having a clear understanding of firearm and weapon laws in the city of Missouri is essential for responsible gun owners and enthusiasts. By familiarizing yourself with the regulations outlined by the state, you can ensure that you comply with the law and safely discharge your firearms and weapons. Enjoy your firearms and weapons safely in the city of Missouri.

Some key points to remember include:

1. Defining Air Gun Laws in Missouri: Air guns are considered firearms under Missouri law, and therefore subject to specific regulations.
2. Pellet Gun Laws in Missouri: Pellet guns are classified as firearms and must be treated accordingly, including obtaining appropriate permits.
3. Age Restrictions for Owning Air Guns: There are age restrictions for owning and using air guns in Missouri, with minimum age requirements set by law.
4. BB Gun Laws in Missouri: BB guns are also regulated as firearms and require adherence to the same laws governing other types of firearms.
5. Permits and Carrying Restrictions: Depending on the circumstances, certain permits may be required for carrying air guns outside of private property.
6. **Hunting Regulations for Firearms:** Specific rules and restrictions apply to the discharge of a firearm, including caliber limitations and licensing requirements for a person.
7. Municipal Regulations in Kansas City, Missouri: In addition to state laws, some municipalities may have their own additional regulations regarding air gun use within city limits.
8. Non-Powder and Toy Guns in Missouri: Non-powder guns such as paintball markers or toy guns may have different regulations than traditional air guns.

To stay informed about any updates or changes to laws regarding the discharge of a firearm, it is advisable to consult official sources such as the Missouri Department of Conservation or local law enforcement agencies. This will ensure that you are aware of any regulations that may affect your possession and use of this weapon.

FAQs

Can I openly carry an air gun in Missouri?

Yes, you can openly carry an air gun in Missouri as long as you comply with the state’s firearm regulations and any applicable local ordinances. An air gun is not considered a weapon under Missouri law, so it is legally permissible for a person to openly carry and discharge an air gun in public.

Do I need a permit to own an air gun in Missouri?

No, you do not need a permit to own a firearm or weapon in Missouri. However, certain permits may be required for carrying them outside of private property by a person.

Are there age restrictions for owning air guns in Missouri?

Yes, there are age restrictions for owning and using firearms in Missouri. The minimum age requirements vary depending on the type of firearm and its intended use.

Can I hunt with an air gun in Missouri?

Yes, hunting with an air gun as a firearm is allowed in Missouri for a person. However, specific rules and regulations apply, including caliber limitations and licensing requirements for the weapon.

Are there any additional regulations for using air guns within Kansas City limits?

Yes, Kansas City may have additional regulations regarding the use of air guns, a type of firearm, within city limits as outlined in the Missouri code. It is important for any person residing or planning to use their air gun within Kansas City to familiarize themselves with these local ordinances.