Minnesota Gun Laws in Plain English
In Minnesota, you need a permit to buy a handgun or an AR-15 style rifle, even from a private seller. You can get a concealed carry permit from your sheriff, which also lets you open carry. There are no limits on magazine size, and you can own suppressors. However, be aware that 'Red Flag' laws are in effect, meaning your guns can be temporarily taken if a court deems you dangerous.
Critical: Minnesota Gun Law Gotchas
These are the most important things to know that could get you arrested or charged with a crime:
- #1Binary triggers are now classified as illegal 'trigger activators' under Minn. Stat. § 609.67.
- #2Open carry is NOT legal without a permit. You must have a Permit to Carry to carry openly or concealed (Minn. Stat. § 624.714).
- #3Private sales of handguns and 'military-style' rifles now require a background check and permit check (Minn. Stat. § 624.7134).
- #4The blood alcohol limit for carrying is 0.04, which is half the limit for driving (Minn. Stat. § 624.7142).
- #5You must display your carry permit 'upon demand' of a peace officer (Minn. Stat. § 624.714 Subd. 1b).
- #6Short-barreled shotguns are generally prohibited unless they are 'Curios and Relics', unlike SBRs which are legal with NFA compliance (Minn. Stat. § 609.67).
- #7Having a medical marijuana card does not disqualify you from a state permit, but makes you a prohibited possessor under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)).
- #8Saturday Night Special laws ban the sale of certain cheap handguns based on melting point (Minn. Stat. § 624.712).
- #9Snowmobiles and ATVs have specific transport rules that may differ from general vehicle carry unless you have a carry permit (Minn. Stat. § 97B.045).
- #10Ghost guns (unserialized firearms) are illegal to possess or build as of Jan 1, 2024 (Minn. Stat. § 609.6675).
Read these carefully - they cover common mistakes that lead to felony charges.