Definitions of "Firearms"

[jdkillson]

this should be stickied.

That term has various meanings depending on what law you're discussing.

hi Everyone...
this is jdkillson...!!
I also agree

[Too-Tall]

i hate to dig up an old thread; but when i did OTR i thought about picking up a fullauto airsoft gun in case anyone tried to come in my truck while sleeping i could at least subdue them (those things hurt); however i was dissuaded from doing so when i was informed that in some states even an airsoft or bb gun is considered a "firearm" and therefore may not be transported in a vehicle ect ect ect (you know the schtick)

[dman]

Deflagration !!!!!!!!! I'm impressed !!

[walteq]

Ok, I see these definitions. I was also told by a State Police Officer that a pellet gun also falls into this firearm catagory because they expell a projectile at high velocities. I really don't understand the laws anymore on firearms because they seem to change constantly. Is a CO2 powered Pellet gun considered a firearm? Some pellets travel 1200 fps. I'm really confused about the whole firearm definition when related to high powered pellets without the explosion. Any advice or knowledge here? Seems like you have to have an attorney on retainer for the law.

[gnbrotz]

Ok, I see these definitions. I was also told by a State Police Officer that a pellet gun also falls into this firearm catagory because they expell a projectile at high velocities. I really don't understand the laws anymore on firearms because they seem to change constantly. Is a CO2 powered Pellet gun considered a firearm? Some pellets travel 1200 fps. I'm really confused about the whole firearm definition when related to high powered pellets without the explosion. Any advice or knowledge here? Seems like you have to have an attorney on retainer for the law.

I am unaware of any state statute that defines air rifles/pistols as "firearms". Even the most broad definition I've seen (basically anything that "expels a projectile by force of an explosion") would not qualify.

I have seen local park regulations that define "firearm" to include things like bow & arrows, and slingshots.

[GunLawyer001]

I am unaware of any state statute that defines air rifles/pistols as "firearms". Even the most broad definition I've seen (basically anything that "expels a projectile by force of an explosion" would not qualify.

I have seen local park regulations that define "firearm" to include things like bow & arrows, and slingshots.

A pellet gun can be a weapon or an instrument of crime, but here in PA it can't be a "firearm". (I think that NJ is different. In so many ways....)

It can, however, be a "replica firearm", which can get you into trouble if used in a crime. But then, so can a carved bar of soap.

Note that our "weapons-free school" statute has been used successfully to prosecute a kid with a paintball gun, and a paint ball has far less penetrating power than a pellet or BB.

[dgg9]

A pellet gun can be a weapon or an instrument of crime, but here in PA it can't be a "firearm".

...which is why, of course, Philly can and does ban them.

[karlthev]

Where do black power muzzle-loaders and percussion "weapons" figure into this...as "firearms" or not in Pennsylvania?

[tl_3237]

Where do black power muzzle-loaders and percussion "weapons" figure into this...as "firearms" or not in Pennsylvania?

Quasi -firearms. Though most of the UFA does not apply to them, the section 6106 (carrying) and 6105 (prohibited persons) do.

18 Pa CS § 6118. Antique firearms.
(a) General rule.--This subchapter shall not apply to
antique firearms.
(b) Exception.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to the extent
that such antique firearms, reproductions or replicas of
firearms are concealed weapons as provided in section 6106
(relating to firearms not be carried without a license), nor
shall it apply to the provisions of section 6105 (relating to
persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or
transfer firearms) if such antique firearms, reproductions or
replicas of firearms are suitable for use.
(c) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "antique
firearm" means:
(1) Any firearm with a matchlock, flintlock or
percussion cap type of ignition system.
(2) Any firearm manufactured on or before 1898.
(3) Any replica of any firearm described in paragraph
(2) if such replica:
(i) is not designed or redesigned for using rimfire
or conventional center fire fixed ammunition; or
(ii) uses rimfire or conventional center fire fixed
ammunition which is no longer manufactured in the United
States and which is not readily available in the ordinary
channels of commercial trade.

[4thdimension]

There are multiple definitions so its easier for cops and prosecutors to screw over people. If one definition doesn't fit their needs there are others that might. The judicial system is designed to be manipulated to the benefit of the prosecution. Judges are supposed to be impartial arbitrators of the law but they are rarely impartial.