Mississippi Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What type of firearm is prohibited from being owned or possessed in Mississippi?

1. Semi-automatic weapons

2. Assault weapons

3. Machine guns without proper permits

4. None

The correct answer is: Machine guns without proper permits

In Mississippi, the law prohibits the ownership or possession of machine guns without the proper permits. This is significant because machine guns are classified as fully automatic firearms that continuously fire rounds as long as the trigger is pressed. The regulation surrounding machine guns is stricter due to their potential for rapid fire and greater firepower compared to other firearms. The requirement for permits ensures that individuals who wish to own such firearms undergo a vetting process, which may involve background checks and adherence to specific regulations set forth by local, state, and federal laws. The distinction between machine guns and other types of firearms like semi-automatic weapons or assault weapons is critical. Semi-automatic firearms fire one round per trigger pull and are typically legal for ownership under Mississippi law, provided that they are not classified as restricted. Additionally, the term "assault weapons" can vary in definition and may not be uniformly banned under Mississippi law, depending on specific characteristics and features, rather than a blanket prohibition. Overall, the emphasis on permitting for machine guns underscores the state's commitment to regulating more dangerous firearms, thereby aiming to enhance public safety while still allowing the ownership of other types of firearms under regulated conditions.