Barrel lengths for shotguns in America....... ?

Question

In Canada we can't cut a barrel down less then 18" and I know that you Americans have the same rule. But in Canada you can buy a shotgun with a 14" or 12.5" barrel. (law states you can't cut a barrel shorter then 18", but you can buy one if it's available from a manufacture)

http://www.canadaammo.com/product.php?productid=18

I was just wondering if your laws are the same and if these shotguns are available in the States ?

I ask this question because I just purchased the shotgun in the link and It's now my new favourite shotgun and I recommend it to everyone that is looking for a good home defence weapon.

Answer 1

For the first time I am jealous of Canadians!

Answer 2

They can't be sold over the counter or cut down without prior permission from the feds in the form of a $200 tax stamp and registration if they are less than 18 inches

They are not handguns they are Short Barreled Shotguns

Answer 3

NO 18 inches.* Cool shotgun though.* Great price to.*

Answer 4

Shotguns with barrel lengths under 18" fall under the AOW category and require a $200 tax stamp and approval from your local law enforcement official. AOW means Any Other Weapon.

Here's where even I get confused, it costs 200 bucks for the stamp to manufacture an AOW, but if one is already made, it can be transfered for 5 dollars. So if you make one, spend the 200 bucks to do it legally, then decide to sell it, it's only going to cost me 5 bucks to transfer the stamp to my name.

At least that's the way I understand the law, as written for Virginia.

Answer 5

I'm pretty sure its illegal to shoot that bad boy .

Answer 6

What broker said. 18" is the shortest you can go without paying any taxes.

If you plan to make a 18" barreled shotgun, make it around 18.5" so that incase you run into trouble with the law, you can clearly show that your shotgun is over 18" minimum.

Answer 7

Under US laws, Shotgun barrels must be at least 18 inches.  Anything less would be considered a handgun.