Understanding Arizona’s Laws on Prohibited Weapons
When it comes to firearm and weapon laws in Arizona, there are specific regulations in place to ensure public safety and order. In this blog post, we’ll break down some of the key weapons that are prohibited under Arizona law, as well as the potential consequences for those caught in possession of these dangerous items.
Arizona law, under ARS 13-3101, defines and regulates several categories of prohibited weapons. These are weapons that, due to their nature, are considered a threat to public safety and are illegal to possess, manufacture, or use.
Arizona’s Prohibited Weapons
Let’s walk through some of the most notable prohibited weapons according to the law:
- Explosive Devices: Bombs, Grenades, and Rockets
Any explosive device capable of causing damage or harm is strictly prohibited. This includes bombs, grenades, and rockets—basically any device that contains an explosive substance (four ounces or more) that could detonate and cause destruction. Whether homemade or professionally made, possession of such items is illegal and can result in serious felony charges. - Firearm Sound Suppressors
While the statute does not specifically mention “silencers,” it does include sound suppressors or any devices intended to reduce or mute the noise produced by firing a firearm. This includes anything placed on the end of a gun that manipulates or suppresses the sound. Even though the term “silencer” is commonly used, the law focuses on the ability of a device to reduce the sound of a firearm, making it illegal under Arizona law to possess such a device. - Short-Barreled Shotguns and Rifles
In Arizona, there are strict regulations regarding the length of firearm barrels. Short-barreled shotguns (those with barrels shorter than 18 inches) and short-barreled rifles (those with barrels shorter than 16 inches) are prohibited. If you modify a shotgun or rifle by shortening its barrel, you are breaking the law, even if the modification is done for personal use. Additionally, the overall length of the firearm, when fully assembled, must be at least 26 inches.
This is to ensure that firearms maintain a level of stability and safety when used, preventing the potential for misuse or concealment. - Molotov Cocktails and Similar Devices
One of the more notorious prohibited weapons is the Molotov cocktail—a homemade incendiary device typically made from a bottle filled with flammable liquid and a wick. Arizona law prohibits any breakable container that holds flammable liquid, combined with any type of wick or material designed to cause it to ignite. Whether it’s gasoline in a bottle or other similar dangerous concoctions, these types of devices are illegal. - Bursting Gas Bombs (Including Dry Ice Bombs)
Many people may not realize that something as simple as a dry ice bomb could be illegal. If you’ve ever filled a sealed container with dry ice and let it explode, you’re technically creating a prohibited weapon under Arizona law. This includes any device that creates pressure and then bursts due to the build-up of gas—these are considered explosive devices. The statute also specifically mentions dry ice bombs, which have become a common example of a simple yet dangerous homemade device. - Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)
The term IED (Improvised Explosive Device) often brings to mind images of warfare and terrorism, but under Arizona law, any device that functions as an explosive device—such as a pipe bomb or one that is triggered by a timer or remote device—is illegal. IEDs are specifically banned, as they pose significant risks to public safety. This category is broad and can include various combinations of materials designed to create a dangerous explosion. - Materials for Assembling Prohibited Weapons
Arizona law doesn’t stop at banning the weapons themselves. The statute includes a catch-all provision making it illegal to possess materials that could be used to assemble any of the aforementioned prohibited devices. For example, if someone is caught with components that can be combined to create an explosive device, even if no weapon has been constructed, they can still face charges for possessing prohibited weapon materials.Legal Consequences of Possessing Prohibited Weapons
Possessing any of the prohibited weapons outlined above can result in severe legal consequences. If you’re caught in possession of a banned item, you could face felony charges, which carry significant penalties, including prison time and heavy fines. The severity of the charge depends on the specific weapon and circumstances of the case.
Understanding the laws surrounding firearms and prohibited weapons is crucial for anyone who owns or intends to own weapons in Arizona. If you’re unsure about the legality of a particular weapon or device, it’s important to consult legal experts to avoid unintentional violations.
If you or someone you know is facing charges related to weapons violations in Arizona, it’s advisable to seek legal assistance immediately. At R&R Law Group, we offer free case evaluations to help you understand your legal rights and options, schedule now or give us a call at (602) 497-3088. Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have questions about Arizona’s weapon laws or are facing charges, we recommend contacting an attorney for guidance.
