Illegal Weapons in Raleigh
The right to bear arms is guaranteed by the North Carolina and the United States Constitution, but it is not an unlimited right to carry or possess every weapon. Certain weapons are illegal to possess in Raleigh and North Carolina in general. While some weapons are illegal, North Carolina still has some of the least restrictive gun and weapons laws in the United States, but restrictions still exist.
Being found in possession of an illegal weapon can have a devastating impact on your life. You could lose your right to keep and bear arms and end up a convicted felon. To mitigate the chances of this happening to you, contact the Coolidge Law Firm. Our attorneys have the experience needed to negotiate a better outcome for your case.
Take the first step in building your defense and contact the Coolidge Law Firm. The sooner you do, the sooner we can begin formulating a defense plan. The Coolidge Law Firm defends clients of weapons crimes in areas across Wake County including Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Garner, Apex, and many others.
Call (919) 239-8448 to schedule a free consultation.
Are Machine Guns Illegal in North Carolina?
It’s against North Carolina law for any person, firm, or corporation to possess, sell, or manufacture a machine gun, sub-machine gun, or any similar gun. For a gun to be considered a machine gun, it must be able to shoot more than one round by a single pull of the trigger. Parts used to convert a firearm into a machine gun are also illegal.
North Carolina residents who own machine guns used in past wars can legally possess the weapon without violating Section 14-409 of the North Carolina General Statutes. The weapons will be considered an antique, and ownership must be reported to the county sheriff’s office.
Possessing a machine gun or similar firearm is a class I felony punishable by three to 12 months in prison depending on previous criminal history.
What is a Weapon of Mass Destruction?
Weapons of mass destruction are capable of causing widespread death and damage, so it’s no surprise such weapons are illegal in Raleigh. A weapon of mass destruction includes any combination of substances or parts designed to convert a device or substances into a nuclear, biological, or chemical weapon capable of causing widespread destruction. A device or weapon with any of the following is considered a weapon of mass destruction:
- Radiation
- Organisms of a deadly disease or virus
- Poisonous or toxic chemicals
Possessing or attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction is a class BI felony punishable by 144 to 483 months in prison. This is the second most serious felony in Raleigh. Defending this crime will require the skills and knowledge of the defense attorneys at Coolidge Law Firm. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime involving a weapon of mass destruction, contact us immediately.
Projectile Knives
Most knives are legal in North Carolina. There is one knife that is not. Knives with detachable blades that can be ejected several yards with the pull of a trigger are illegal in the state. This is called a projectile or ballistic knife, and no one can possess one, not even law enforcement.
A conviction for selling, possession, manufacturing, or delivering a ballistic knife is a class 1 misdemeanor punishable by one to 120 days in jail.
Teflon-Coated Bullets
Another weapon banned in North Carolina are bullets coated in Teflon. Teflon-coated bullets were originally intended for law enforcement. Conventional bullets were less effective when it came to striking hard targets, so experimenters coated them with a substance called polytetrafluoroethylene.
This Teflon-like substance allows the bullet to penetrate hard targets such as car doors, windshields, and protective body armor. Because they are capable of penetrating the protective gear of law enforcement, the bullets earned the name “cop-killer bullets.”
Importing, manufacturing, possessing, or selling Teflon-coated bullets is a class 1 misdemeanor punishable by one to 120 days in jail.
Additional Resources for Illegal Weapons
North Carolina Firearms Laws – Follow this link to view a PDF provided by North Carolina’s Attorney General covering the state’s firearm laws. You can gain access to more information about illegal weapons, the dos and don’ts of carrying a concealed handgun, and the requirements to purchase a firearm in North Carolina.
Machine Guns and Other Like Weapons | North Carolina General Statues – Visit the official website of the North Carolina General Assembly to read the statute over machine guns. You can read the precise legal definition of machine gun and find out who can legally possess the weapon in Raleigh.
Facing Illegal Weapons Charges?
Speak to a Defense Attorney in Raleigh!
You will lose many Constitutional rights if you are convicted of possessing, selling, or manufacturing illegal weapons. These losses can include your right to hunt, bear arms, carry a concealed weapon, and, in some circumstances, vote.
Here at the Coolidge Law Firm, we know when to push for dismissal, negotiate a plea deal, or prepare to fight in trial. Take the first step in building your defense and contact the Coolidge Law Firm today. Call (919) 239-8448 or fill out a contact form to schedule your free consultation.
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