Expert: Robert P. Firriolo - 1/13/2008

Question
  My Husband was convicted of Federal Felony (tax fraud)not violent and not substance related, and served 3 Years.  He has been out 3 + years and can legally use a firearm in his state.  he can not legally use a firearm though due to Federal law 922 etc.  He can legally use "antique firearms" and has two BATF letters of opinion as to being able to own, use, shoot and hunt with Blackpowder weapons provided they do not use the definitons components that are related to ammunition.  He then is limited to Cap and ball pistols and Cap and bore load shotguns and rifles. His question is where do the new CVA Electra Rifles fit in as they do not use 209 primers but rather are electrially ignited.  Now as this is not covered in law is it against the law to own one..He is not precluded from owning a Taser as long as it is gas operated so is the Electra legal by definition of law?  Further note BATF says he can use even the modern in lines etc it just can't be with a 209 primer--thank you

Answer
The legal status of any new firearm technology will be initially subject to a review by the BATFE. Sometimes a muzzleloader will have characteristics deemed similar enough to modern firearms, such as the Savage 10ML, that BATFE will classify them as rifles under the Gun Control Act. I could not find any ruling on the CVA Electra. However, BATFE encourages inquiries on such matters directly to the Firearms Technology Branch at (304) 260-3414,(304) 260-1700, or (202) 927-7910, or write to them at 244 Needy Road Martinsburg, WV 24501. I suggest you call them directly since only they can tell you for certain how this particular technology is classified.