General
Because black powder firearms are considered antique firearms, the possession of a black powder firearm by a person subject to federal firearms disabilities is not prohibited by the GCA. However, a person subject to federal firearms disabilities may not receive and/or possess black powder firearms that can be readily converted to fire fixed ammunition by replacing the barrel, bolt, breechblock, or any combination thereof which are classified as "firearms." Additionally, state law may prohibit the possession of a black powder firearm by persons who are not federally prohibited from possessing them. Please contact your state's Attorney General’s Office for information regarding black powder firearms.
[18 U.S.C. 921(a)(3) and (16); 27 CFR 478.11 and 478.141(d)]
No, assuming the antique firearm is not a replica designed or redesigned for using rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed ammunition. The antique firearm also cannot be a black powder muzzle loading weapon that incorporates a firearm frame or receiver, have been converted into a muzzle loading weapon, or uses fixed ammunition (or readily converted to do so).
[18 U.S.C. 921(a)(3) and (16); 27 CFR 478.11 and 478.141(d)]
Yes. A license is required to import or manufacture ammunition. However, a license is not required to deal only in ammunition. Ammunition includes cartridge cases, primers, bullets or propellant powder designed for use in any firearm other than an antique firearm.
[18 U.S.C. 921(a)(17), 922(a)(1)(B) and 923(a); 27 CFR 478.11]
