Gun Laws in Colorado
Colorado state has relatively lenient gun laws, allowing ownership and carrying of firearms with some restrictions. The laws do not require registration of firearms, but certain types like armor piercing ammunition are illegal.
Consequences of Illegal Possession
Knowingly possessing certain illegal weapons in Colorado, such as a blackjack or gas gun, can result in a class 1 misdemeanor with penalties ranging from jail time to fines.
Recent Gun Regulations in Colorado
Jared Polis recently signed four gun measures into law, tightening gun regulations in Colorado. The laws include expanding red flag laws, raising the minimum age for gun purchases to 21, imposing waiting periods on firearm purchases, and facilitating lawsuits against the gun industry.
What Guns are Legal in Colorado?
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns are legal in Colorado with age restrictions and background check requirements. However, certain weapons like machine guns and ballistic knives are prohibited. Local governments can also impose additional restrictions on gun ownership.
Regulation of BB Guns
Colorado state laws prohibit unauthorized possession of pellet or BB guns in public schools. Discharging BB guns in Colorado Springs and attempting to carry them into restricted areas like the airport can lead to legal consequences.
Right to Bear Arms in Colorado
The Colorado state constitution protects the right to bear arms, with the government allowed to regulate this right as long as regulations are reasonable. Self-defense laws in the state do not infringe on the right to bear arms for protection.
Gun Control Laws Evolution
Over the years, Colorado has passed laws in response to mass shootings to strengthen gun control measures. These include expanding background checks, restricting high-capacity magazines, and raising the minimum age to purchase guns to 21.