Gun Law 101: Grading Alaska - Overview of State Gun Law

Published on October 20, 2021
Duration: 19:08

This video provides a comprehensive overview of Alaska's gun laws, analyzing its constitutional protections, ownership restrictions, acquisition processes, ammunition controls, carry regulations, and self-defense statutes. While Alaska's constitution includes a right to bear arms, judicial interpretation has limited its scope. The state generally lacks firearm registration, licensing, and waiting periods, but prohibits certain individuals, like felons and those under 18, from possessing firearms. Notably, Alaska bans NFA items like machine guns and suppressors, though possession compliant with federal law serves as an affirmative defense. The state has a 'stand your ground' law and allows permitless concealed carry for those 21 and older.

Quick Summary

Alaska's constitution protects the right to bear arms, but judicial interpretations have limited its scope. The state allows permitless concealed carry for those 21+ and prohibits firearm registration. Notably, Alaska bans NFA items like machine guns and suppressors, though federal compliance acts as a defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Alaska Gun Laws Series
  2. 01:01Alaska Constitution and Right to Bear Arms
  3. 01:47Judicial Interpretation of Alaska's Gun Rights
  4. 03:07Restrictions on Owning Firearms in Alaska
  5. 03:47Age Restrictions for Firearm Possession
  6. 04:06Felon and Misdemeanor Firearm Restrictions
  7. 04:33Past Intoxication Laws and Dwelling Restrictions
  8. 05:03Prohibitions for Misdemeanors and Mental Health Orders
  9. 05:25Mental Health Reporting to NICS
  10. 05:48Acquiring or Purchasing Firearms
  11. 06:41Homemade Firearms (Ghost Guns)
  12. 07:18Ammunition Controls in Alaska
  13. 08:01Carry Restrictions: Concealed and Open
  14. 08:12Permitless Concealed Carry in Alaska
  15. 08:41Concealed Carry Permit Requirements
  16. 09:26Reciprocity of Carry Permits
  17. 09:53Open Carry Regulations
  18. 10:03Carry Restrictions on School Property
  19. 10:32Firearm Storage in Parked Vehicles
  20. 10:46Prohibited Carry Locations
  21. 11:11Unusual Carry Restrictions
  22. 11:23Loaded Firearm Restrictions Near Liquor Sales
  23. 11:44Carry Near Child Care, Courtrooms, Shelters
  24. 11:53Silent Areas for Carry (Parks, Hospitals, etc.)
  25. 12:03Self-Defense Regulations: Stand Your Ground
  26. 12:36Cool Gun Restrictions (NFA Items)
  27. 13:11Restoring Firearm Rights
  28. 13:43Restoration for Felonies Against Persons
  29. 13:56Restoration for Other Felonies
  30. 14:07Miscellaneous Gun Laws
  31. 14:14State Preemption of Local Laws
  32. 14:20Nuisance Lawsuit Limitations
  33. 14:28Other Miscellaneous Laws (Storage, Lost Guns, Red Flag)
  34. 14:40Grading Alaska's Gun Laws
  35. 15:41Final Score and Comparison
  36. 16:05Disclaimer on Video Publication Date

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Alaska have a constitutional right to bear arms?

Yes, Article 1, Section 19 of the Alaska Constitution protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms, stating it shall not be infringed by the state or its political subdivisions. However, judicial interpretations have placed limitations on this right.

Can you carry a concealed firearm in Alaska without a permit?

Yes, since 2003, Alaska allows individuals aged 21 and older who can lawfully possess a firearm to carry it concealed without a permit. Permits are still available for those seeking reciprocity with other states or to bypass FFL background checks.

Does Alaska require firearm registration?

No, Alaska does not have any state laws requiring firearm registration. Furthermore, state law prevents local governments from passing ordinances that would result in the registration of firearms or knives.

What are Alaska's restrictions on NFA firearms like machine guns and suppressors?

Alaska law generally bans machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and suppressors, defining them as prohibited weapons. However, possessing these items in compliance with federal law serves as an affirmative defense against state charges.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Fudd Busters

View all →