Can a Felon Own a Muzzleloader in 2025?

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). According to the ATF’s official guide on firearms, firearms are defined as:

“Any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive…”

Antique firearms are NOT considered firearms under federal law. The ATF defines an antique firearm as:

• Any gun manufactured before 1899, or
• Any black powder muzzleloading rifle, bow, shotgun, or pistol that doesn’t use modern ammunition.

So technically, under federal law, most muzzleloaders are not classified as firearms.

Can a Felon Legally Own a Muzzleloader?

Under Federal Law: Yes, But With Conditions

Federal law does not prohibit felons from owning a muzzleloader—but only if it fits the “antique firearm” definition under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)). This means:

• It must be a black powder gun (not using fixed ammunition).
• It must not be capable of firing modern cartridges.
• It cannot be modified to fire modern rounds.

If you’re a felon and you pick up an antique-style muzzleloader that fits these specs, you’re not violating federal law.

State Laws Are a Whole Different Beast

Just because the federal government doesn’t classify muzzleloaders as firearms doesn’t mean your state agrees.

This table summarizes current laws as of May 2025. Always check with your state attorney general’s office or a firearms attorney before making a purchase.

What Type of Muzzleloaders Can a Felon Own?

Here are three categories that usually fall under the “safe zone” (federally speaking):

1. Traditional Flintlock Rifles (e.g., Kentucky rifle)
   
   • Uses black powder
   • Not modified for cartridges
   • Manufactured before 1899 (or replica)
     
2. Cap and Ball Revolvers
   
   • Pre-1899 designs
   • Uses percussion caps
   • No modern ammo
3. Inline Muzzleloaders
   
   • These are tricky. Some are too modern and can be reclassified as firearms depending on features.

Common Myths About Felons and Muzzleloaders

Let’s debunk a few tall tales floating around the web:

Myth 1: “All black powder guns are legal for felons.”

Nope! Some black powder guns fire modern ammo or can be easily converted. That’s illegal.

Myth 2: “If I own a muzzleloader, I can carry it during hunting season.”

Wrong again. Even in states where ownership is legal, hunting laws may prohibit possession by felons.

Myth 3: “It’s legal everywhere if it’s pre-1899.”

Not quite. Some states don’t care about manufacture year; they ban felons from possessing any type of gun-like object.

Risks and Penalties If You Get It Wrong

Let’s be crystal clear: Owning the wrong kind of muzzleloader can land you back in prison.

Possible Consequences:

• Federal felony possession of a firearm – up to 10 years in federal prison (18 U.S.C. § 922(g))
• State weapons charges – can add additional 5–15 years, depending on location
• Parole or probation violations
• Loss of future rights restoration eligibility

If you’re not 100% sure whether the muzzleloader is legal for you to own—don’t risk it.

How Can a Felon Regain Gun Rights?

If you’re looking to legally own a broader class of firearms (not just muzzleloaders), here are your options:

1. Pardon

• Issued by the Governor (state felony) or President (federal felony)
• Often restores full gun rights

2. Expungement

• Not always available
• Doesn’t always restore rights—but can help in some states

3. Restoration of Civil Rights

• Available in many states after probation/parole
• Process can take 1–3 years, often requires legal filing

4. ATF Relief from Disabilities

• This federal program was defunded, but keep an eye out in case it resumes

What Should You Do Before Buying a Muzzleloader?

✔ Checklist for Felons:

• Confirm federal law compliance (Antique Firearm rule)
• Double-check state law (Not just Google—read the actual statute!)
• Avoid anything that can be converted to modern ammo
• Get written legal advice, if possible
• Document the purchase (bill of sale, specs, etc.)
• Do not carry or transport across state lines without verification

Real-World Example:

In 2017, a man in Pennsylvania was sentenced to 18 months in prison for possessing a black powder pistol. He thought it was legal—but PA law considered it a firearm. The judge called it “a tragic misunderstanding of state vs. federal gun laws.”

Final Thoughts

Muzzleloaders offer a unique legal loophole for felons—but it’s not a free pass. The difference between freedom and a felony charge can come down to one misunderstood law or technical detail.

FAQs