Gun laws change fast. Here are the basics as of fall 2026.
Federal
- Dealer sales need a background check and Form 4473
- You must be 18 to buy a rifle from a dealer
- The 1994 assault weapons ban expired in 2004
- SBRs and suppressors have a $0 tax, and ATF stopped enforcing federal registration on October 9, 2026
- ATF rescinded the pistol brace rule in May 2026
- The 2022 frame or receiver rule for 80% lowers is still in effect for most buyers
- Machine guns and destructive devices are still tightly controlled
State
- Some states ban certain ARs, features or mag sizes
- Some require permits, registration or waiting periods
- Some still require federal NFA registration for SBRs and suppressors
Check your state laws, and the laws of any state you travel through.
Not legal advice. Always check your state’s laws.
