Are Airsoft Guns Legal in Virginia? Airsoft guns are a blast! If you’re new to the sport, you probably have a few questions. For example, are airsoft guns legal in Virginia? Read on to learn more about this exciting hobby. This article explains the legality of your airsoft guns in Virginia.
Are Airsoft Guns Legal in Virginia?
Airsoft guns are not legal in Virginia.
Airsoft guns shoot plastic pellets, and Virginia law defines a firearm as ” any device designed or redesigned, made or remade, or readily converted or restored, and intended to be fired or discharged by the use of a projectile, including any such device which may be readily restored to fire.” Va. Code. Ann.§ 18.2-599. Even though this is not defined in the statute, some people have picked this language to justify arguments that they can legally purchase airsoft guns in Virginia.
What are the laws on airsoft guns in VA? – Are Airsoft Guns Legal in Virginia
It is a crime to carry a BB gun, pellet gun, air rifle, air pistol, or any gun that is not a firearm in public if it looks like a real gun. It is also a crime to point, aim, or brandish a replica gun at another person in a threatening way. Here are the main things to keep in mind and information you should know before airsofting in Virginia.
Keep All Laws In Mind. The laws related to airsofting in Virginia are similar to those that govern hunting. The laws protect people from injury or death caused by airsoft guns. Keep in mind that there are some extra-legal requirements surrounding airsoft guns.
That means that you must always follow the laws concerning your airsoft gun wherever it is. It is up to you to decide whether or not you will stay inside a set of designated airsoft playing fields or be outside in places where the law does not cover you.
One of the things to keep in mind is that there is a lack of regulation around the airsoft guns that you decide to buy. How you decide to treat your airsoft gun will determine what the local laws require.
Bring Your Own Licensing.
The law requires you to have your license if you want to shoot with an airsoft gun. Depending upon where you live, you may need to bring your state-issued hunting or sporting license along with you if you plan to shoot with a BB gun.
You may also be asked to pick up your license if you plan to hunt with airsoft guns, or if you plan to shoot with lights. Having your license means that you are qualified to own and operate the type of airsoft gun that you are planning to shoot. Purchasing Another License is Generally Not Prohibited.
Oliver has been a paintball enthusiast since he first stepped on the field at just 11. He quickly joined clubs and teams all throughout New Hampshire! He started Paintball Hive to share his passion and knowledge with other paintball heads out there!