No, you do not have to register long guns in PA. In fact, according to 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6111.4, it is illegal for any government or law enforcement agency in Pennsylvania to keep a firearms registry.
If you face threats to your right to bear arms, a gun lawyer with our firm can fight for you. We can defend against gun-related charges or charges that may affect your ability to own or carry a firearm.
What Is a Long Gun?
Under 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6102, a firearm is any weapon that falls within the following ranges when measured from the muzzle of the barrel to the face of the closed action, bolt, or cylinder:
- A pistol or revolver with a barrel length of less than 15 inches
- A shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches
- A rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches
- A pistol, revolver, rifle, or shotgun with an overall length of less than 26 inches
Long guns are weapons with barrels exceeding these ranges, including certain rifles, shotguns, and carbines.
PA Keeps a Record of Handgun Sales but does Not Maintain Long Gun Records
According to 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6111, firearms dealers must provide the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) with a record of the sale of handguns and other weapons outlined in 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6102. The police maintain sales records in a permanent database. However, under the law, PSP must destroy records related to long gun sales within 72 hours of the purchaser’s background check.
Additionally, if you wish to transfer your long gun to another owner, you must do so at a licensed firearms dealer’s place of business. The dealer must provide the PSP with a record of the number of long guns sold, surcharges and fees remitted, and a statement confirming proper background checks. The dealer does not have to provide the PSP with an application/record of sale.
Do You Need a License to Possess a Long Gun?
Pennsylvania does not require gun owners to obtain a license to possess a firearm, but the state does require permits to conceal and carry a firearm or carry a firearm in a motor vehicle. According to the Pennsylvania Firearm Owners Association (PAFOA), you can obtain a License to Carry Firearms (LTCF) permit via your local county sheriff’s office.
You must complete an LTCF application and submit it in person, along with a passport photo and the required fees. The process also involves a background check and a short interview. Our gun attorney can assist you if you received a denial of your LTCF application.
Are There Age Restrictions on Gun Ownership in PA?
You do not have to register long guns or other firearms, but you must be over 18 to legally own and operate a weapon. However, according to 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6110.1, there are exceptions:
- A minor is engaged in lawful activity (including safety training, target shooting, or organized competition) under the supervision of a parent, grandparent, legal guardian, or an adult with the expressed consent of the aforementioned.
- A minor is hunting or trapping in accordance with PA law.
Other Prohibitions on PA Gun Ownership
Certain individuals cannot possess, carry, or operate a long gun or any other type of firearm under state and federal law. According to 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 6105, offenses that prohibit you from possessing, using, controlling, manufacturing, selling, or transferring a firearm include but are not limited to:
- Aggravated assault
- Stalking
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Involuntary manslaughter involving a firearm
- Kidnapping
- Rape
- Arson
- Any felony conviction
- Three or more separate driving under the influence (DUI) convictions within five years
We Can Protect Your Right to Own a Long Gun or Other Firearm
If you face criminal charges or have convictions that prevent you from obtaining or carrying a long gun or other firearms, a lawyer with our firm can help fight to protect or reinstate your right to bear arms. We can:
- Work to get your charges reduced or dismissed
- Arrange to have you released on bail or get your bail reduced
- Collect case evidence, interview witnesses, examine legal procedures, and apply federal and PA law to build your defense
- Attempt to work out an advantageous plea bargain with prosecuting attorneys
- Represent you at trial if necessary
- Seek to have previous charges expunged or sealed
- Pursue a gubernatorial pardon
- Fight to have your civil rights restored
Contact McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
If you need help protecting your right to bear arms, contact McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. today. Our attorney in PA can defend you against criminal charges or fight to have your gun rights restored. Do not hesitate to protect your rights or take chances with your freedom. Reach out 24/7 to get started on your case.