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Airgun law · World
Are Airguns Legal in United States?
Yes, with conditions.
Generally legal, but with real rules to follow, usually age verification and, in some places, a low-power threshold.
Tier 3: Moderate
Threshold-based licensing: a permit-free band for low-power airguns, with a licence required above it.
US
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive United States is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationOutside firearms scope
Age rule21+
PossessionVariable
Transfer / saleVariable
TransportVariable
AuthorityFederal + sub-national layer
Before you buy or sell
- Click anywhere on the United States to open the dedicated state-level map.
The rules in detail
Classification
Outside firearms scope
Airguns are NOT firearms under US federal law (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3) defines firearms by 'action of an explosive'). State-by-state classification varies: NJ and RI treat airguns as statutory firearms; most other states do not.
Age rule
21+
Federal floor: 18+ in many states; some states 21. New York City and DC near-total bans.
Possession
Variable
Varies by state and locality. See dedicated US map for full breakdown.
Transfer / sale
Variable
Federal floor allows interstate shipping; carrier policies vary.
Transport
Variable
TSA: checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case, compressed air cylinder detached.
Authority
Federal + sub-national layer
Federal statute on classification; state statute on classification and use; local ordinances on discharge.
Hunting with an airgun
Varies state-by-state. See dedicated US map.
Deer
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Turkey
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Small game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Predators
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Other big game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Import & travel
Local & import notes
Click for the dedicated US map
All 50 states + DC, with federal baseline, hunting rules, local carve-outs, and city-level ordinances. Click anywhere on the United States to open the dedicated state-level map.
Keep exploring
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance. It isn't legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.