Why can I legally carry a loaded semi-auto only AK-47 in a vehicle in Arkansas but not a loaded handgun?

Question

Why do I need a permit to carry a loaded handgun for defensive purposes but am allowed to carry a much more offensively capable weapon loaded with 30 round magazines or even a 75 round drum? What's up with that????

I got my concealed carry permit revoked for carrying a handgun in my vehicle while drinking and driving so now, I just carry an AK-74 in .223 caliber with 30 round magazine in place. The only place I can find where a feller might get in trouble is with the Game & Fish Commision as they do have regulations that forbid loaded firearms on state & county highways and roads while hunting. I would like to see them make a case that I was hunting in downtown Little Rock at 10 p.m. at night.

Answer 1

To answer the "Why rifle allowed but not handgun"?  Historically handguns have been much more strictly regulated than long guns because it is easier to commit a variety of crimes with a handgun (concealable).  Also easier for crimes of opportunity.  Rifles are problematical to regulate because of their widespread use for hunting.  Hard to write a law that differentiates between "good" and "bad" rifles.  Mechanically, a semi-auto is a semi-auto, whether it has a pretty wooden stock or Rambo attachments.  Only sensible thing is a magazine restriction.  None in Ark.?  Well, if you ever DID shoot someone the large magazine and scary looking rifle would be used against you in a criminal or civil trial, trying to show your intent or state of mind, regardless of self-defense, etc.      (And yes, everyone, one can  plan ahead and rob a convenience store with a rifle.  Just not as readily.)  Stay safe.

Answer 2

just what we need - someone drunk behind the wheel with a loaded  AK 47.  Your chances of dying just doubled in Arkansaw.

Answer 3

You need to check your local and state laws better before you drive around town with that in your car or truck. Most states have a ban on the round amount that can be carried in a car. California you can have more than a ten round clip and in Arizona it is 16 rounds.

Answer 4

I never cease to be amazed at what the rednecks in this state do...  

Answer 5

I live in Arkansa and would like to be there when they stop you and throw your butt in jail for carrying that weapon loaded.