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Airgun law · United States
Are Airguns Legal in Delaware?
Yes, but heavily regulated.
Legal in principle, yet the compliance burden is high — often firearm-grade steps for the airguns most people actually want.
Tier 2 — Major Restrictions
Significant state-level compliance steps required before any sale.
DE
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Delaware is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationSpecial category
Age ruleVariable
PossessionCarry restricted
Transfer / saleNotification or permit
TransportNo state rule
PreemptionLocal rules govern
Before you buy or sell
- Do NOT ship .22 caliber or larger to Delaware buyers without legal review — DE classifies these as dangerous weapons.
The rules in detail
Classification
Special category
Caliber-based: airguns ≤ .177 are essentially unregulated; > .177 are 'dangerous weapons' under Del. Code Title 11, § 1445.
Age rule
Variable
Standard adult possession; sales to minors restricted.
Possession
Carry restricted
≤ .177: lawful. > .177: classified as dangerous weapon — material risk to sale.
Transfer / sale
Notification or permit
Restrict sales of > .177 caliber.
Transport
No state rule
No state-specific transport rules.
Preemption
Local rules govern
No explicit airgun preemption.
Hunting with an airgun
Very narrow airgun use
Deer
Not allowed / prohibited
Not allowed
Turkey
Not allowed / prohibited
Not allowed
Small game
Allowed with conditions
Only gray squirrel allowed
Predators
Not allowed / prohibited
Not allowed
Other big game
Not allowed / prohibited
Not allowed
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.