2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms/Matchlock pistols and rifles

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Expert: - 7/28/2009


Question
Hello, I am a NY state resident and live on Long Island and I wanted to know about any laws prohibiting flintlock pistols or rifles. I have recently wanted to collect and shoot the different pistols and rifles that pirates used in the 1700 and 1800's. I was wondering if you needed a certain permit to shoot flintlock pistols and rifles. Do you have to be a certain age other than 21 to buy and use flintlock pistols or rifles? And any other information about flintlock gun laws in NY would be appreciated. Thank you.

Answer
Muzzle-loading pistols (antiques and reproductions) do not require a license in NYS unless you possess them simultaneously with ball and powder. If you want to shoot them, you will need to get a pistol license. If you are in Nassau or western Suffolk, go to the police department and get an application. If you are in the five eastern-townships of Suffolk, go to the sheriff's department. While there are some exceptions, you generally need to be 21 years or older to get a license.

2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms

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Robert P. Firriolo

Expertise

General constitutional (Second Amendment) and federal firearm law inquiries. New York State and New York City laws and regulations on firearms. Use of force in self-defense.

Experience

Practicing firearms law attorney, including representation of individuals, gun clubs, sportsmen's organizations, shooting ranges, and businesses. Over 20 years of grassroots activism, including involvement in campaigns and elections; writing and editing articles, letters, press-releases, policy papers, and op-ed columns; interaction with firearm regulatory agencies; former board member and current legal advisor to the board of sportsmen's and firearm civil rights organizations; pro-bono counsel on select firearms-related legal cases; debated leaders of the gun-control lobby on national television. Lecturer on lawful use of deadly physical force and crime prevention.

Education/Credentials
Attorney at law. Extensive practice, independent study and research in this field. NRA-certified firearms instructor (rifle, pistol, shotgun, home firearm safety, personal protection) and Chief Range Safety Officer.

Awards and Honors
Martindale-Hubbell "AV" Peer-Review Rating.

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