Owning a gun is a big responsibility. Not only do you need to know how to use it safely and effectively, but you also need to be aware of the laws surrounding firearms in your area. In some states, felons are not allowed to own any type of gun, while in others they may be able to obtain a permit with certain restrictions.

Can felons own firearms?

In general, most states allow felons to own firearms as long as they have obtained the appropriate permits and licenses. This includes black powder revolvers, though it may be more difficult for felons to obtain these licenses due to their criminal record.

To own a black powder revolver as a felon, there are a few key requirements that you must first meet. These include taking a gun safety class, obtaining your state-approved firearm license, and registering the gun with local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, you should always make sure to exercise caution when using or storing your black powder revolver, as even minor accidents can cause serious injuries or damage. With proper care and attention, however, owning a black powder revolver as a felon is possible and can be a rewarding experience.

Black powder revolvers

Also known as muzzle-loading revolvers, are a type of antique firearm that was popular in the 1800s. Unlike modern handguns, which typically use bullets or casings to load and fire ammunition, black powder revolvers use paper cartridges filled with gunpowder and shot.

Though they may be difficult to find and purchase today, these unique guns are still legal to own in most states. For example, in California, felons are allowed to own black powder revolvers with certain restrictions and under the supervision of a licensed gun dealer.

As long as you meet the requirements for owning a black powder revolver as a felon, and take proper precautions to ensure your safety and that of others, you can enjoy this unique piece of history while still being responsible gun owner.

Requisites for owning a black powder revolver as a felon

Requisites for owning a black powder revolver as a felon
Photo by Mikhail Nilov

In order to be eligible to purchase and own a black powder revolver, felons must first meet several key requirements. These include taking a gun safety class, obtaining their state-approved firearm license, and registering the gun with local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they should always take steps to ensure proper care and storage of their firearm. With these precautions in place, owning a black powder revolver as a felon can be both safe and rewarding.

How to take the first steps in owning a black powder revolver as a felon

If you’re interested in owning a black powder revolver as a felon, the first step is to familiarize yourself with your state’s laws and regulations regarding firearms. Once you have a clear understanding of the requirements, you can then begin taking steps to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. In most cases, felons will need to take a gun safety class, obtain their state-approved firearm license, and register the gun with local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, it’s important to always exercise caution when using or storing your black powder revolver, as even minor accidents can cause serious injuries or damage. With proper care and attention, however, owning a black powder revolver as a felon is possible and can be a rewarding experience.

Can a felon own a black powder gun in California? 

Unfortunately, owning a black powder firearm is not an option in California. According to Penal Code 16520, the definition of a firearm in the state includes rifles, shotguns, revolvers, pistols, or any device used as a weapon from which a projectile is expelled by force of any explosion or other form of combustion. This includes the frame or receiver of any such weapon.

While certain black powder guns may be exempt from dealer licensing requirements, sales and loans between private persons, Handgun Safety Certificates or transfers between private parties, they are still classified as firearms for all other purposes.

In order for an individual to have their gun rights restored in California, they must obtain a full and unconditional pardon based on a certificate of rehabilitation. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in pardons, expungements and restoration of gun rights is recommended as the process can be difficult.

Conclusion

Felon gun ownership rights are being restored in more and more states across the country. This means that, with proper care and attention, owning a black powder revolver as a felon is possible and can be a rewarding experience. So if you’re interested in this unique type of firearm, don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps to make it happen.

If you’re a felon and want to know more about owning a black powder revolver, leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you and share your experience. In addition, be sure to check out our other articles on felon gun ownership rights and the different types of firearms that are available to felons.

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15 COMMENTS

    • It is illegal for a felon to purchase, possess, or use a black powder gun in California. The law considers these guns as antique firearms, so instead of them a convicted felon may own daggers, dirks, or stilettos – but these weapons must remain on their property and not be carried in cars or public.

  2. If the conviction of a felony #5 states “up to a year” and the rule of felony conviction states “exceeds a year” is there a difference? Felony is a felony?

  3. For example, in California, felons are allowed to own black powder revolvers with certain restrictions and under the supervision of a licensed gun dealer, why dose it state this in the article , if felons cannot not own black powder guns in California?

    • Hi Kenneth,

      Own a black powder revolver is not always permitted on Virgina. They are 2 limitations on the current law: your felony should have been considered non-violent, and the firearm should be considered “antique firearm”.

      I will quote a passage of the bill, § 18.2-308.2, which is the code section denying convicted felons the right to possess firearms generally, the subsection C2 reads:

      C2. The prohibitions of subsection A shall not prohibit any person other than a person convicted of an act of violence as defined in § 19.2-297.1 or a violent felony as defined in subsection C of § 17.1-805 from possessing, transporting, or carrying (i) antique firearms or (ii) black powder in a quantity not exceeding five pounds if it is intended to be used solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes in antique firearms. For the purposes of this subsection, “antique firearms” means any firearm described in subdivision 3 of the definition of “antique firearm” in subsection G of § 18.2-308.2:2.

  5. I’m an ex-convicted from in Michigan. I served 23 years. I’ve been home ten years now. No problems with the law. 1. Would an expungement of my 2nd degree murder conviction, allow me to possess a firearm. Without an expungement, would I be able to possess a black powder revolver, for sport and hunting?

    • As an ex-convict in Michigan, if you have been convicted of 2nd degree murder, you are generally prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law, regardless of whether or not you have an expungement of your conviction.

      However, there are certain limited exceptions to this rule. For example, in some cases, an individual may be able to have their firearm rights restored through a process known as a “restoration of rights.” This typically involves applying for relief from the firearms prohibition in court and demonstrating that you are not a danger to public safety and that restoring your firearm rights is in the public interest.

      In summary, without a restoration of your firearm rights, you are generally prohibited from possessing a firearm, including black powder revolvers, as a convicted felon in Michigan.

    • In Ohio, it is generally legal for a convicted felon to own a black powder firearm. According to state law, black powder firearms are not considered “firearms” under the definition provided by the Ohio Revised Code, and therefore are not subject to the same restrictions as traditional firearms.

      However, it is important to note that federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a felony from owning or possessing any firearm, including black powder firearms, that has been manufactured after 1898 and uses fixed ammunition. Therefore, if a black powder firearm is modified to use fixed ammunition, it would be considered a firearm under federal law and a convicted felon would be prohibited from owning it.

  8. I got a felony stealing food out of a vacant home. It was 35 years ago when I was 18. I need help with this as I have failed every time I’ve tried.

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