The Guide To Oregon Assault Weapons: Are They Legal?
- Shawn Kollie
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
When it comes to Oregon assault weapons laws, things can feel a little complicated. While there’s no statewide ban on assault weapons right now, the state has been pushing for tougher gun rules to help reduce violence. That’s left many people wondering—are assault weapons still legal in Oregon? In this article, we’ll break down what’s currently allowed, what’s changing, and what you need to know moving forward.
Oregon Assault Weapons Ban
One major effort in tightening up Oregon gun regulations is Ballot Measure 114. This ballot would require a permit to buy firearms and outlaw magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. Although a federal judge recently upheld the measure as constitutional, it hasn’t gone into effect yet due to ongoing legal challenges.
In 2023, Oregon’s House passed a separate gun control bill aimed at updating the state's firearm laws. That legislation targets untraceable “ghost guns,” raises the age limit for purchasing certain firearms, such as semiautomatic rifles, and gives local governments the authority to restrict firearms in public buildings they control.
What Is An Assault Weapon in Oregon
Oregon doesn’t have a specific legal definition for "assault weapons." However, the term generally refers to semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns equipped with certain military-style features that enhance their lethality. Below is a basic list of what would be considered an Oregon assault weapon:
Semi-Automatic Rifles
Semi-automatic rifles are often considered assault weapons when they include certain military-style features. These features may include detachable magazines for quick reloading, pistol grips for better control, and folding or telescoping stocks for easier storage or concealment. Threaded barrels or flash suppressors can allow for attachments like suppressors. Some rifles also have bayonet lugs or grenade launchers, reflecting their military origins. When several of these features are combined, the rifle is more likely to face tighter regulations.
Semi-Automatic Pistols
Semi-automatic pistols may be labeled assault weapons if they include certain added features not found on standard handguns. Examples include magazines outside the grip, threaded barrels, barrel shrouds, and extra handgrips. Pistols weighing over 50 ounces are also flagged due to their increased size and potential for greater damage.
Semi-Automatic Shotguns
Semi-automatic shotguns are sometimes considered assault weapons when they include features that make them more powerful or easier to handle in fast-moving situations.
What Types of Firearms Can You Own
Oregon allows residents to legally own a fairly wide range of firearms. The state generally follows federal gun laws, with a few added restrictions. If you meet the age and background check requirements, you can legally own the following types of firearms in Oregon:
Rifles and Shotguns: Bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic rifles and shotguns are legal. You must be at least 18 to possess them, and at least 19 to purchase from a licensed dealer.
Assault-Style Rifles (e.g., AR-15s, AK-47s): Oregon permits ownership of semi-automatic rifles with military-style features. These are not banned under current state law, though new regulations are being debated.
Handguns (Pistols and Revolvers): You must be at least 21 years old to own or buy a handgun. No permit is required to own one, but a concealed handgun license (CHL) is necessary to carry it loaded and hidden in public.
NFA/Class III Firearms: With proper approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Oregon residents can legally own federally regulated items like suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns. These require a tax stamp, background check, and registration.
What Types of Firearms Can You Not Own in Oregon
Here’s a breakdown of what you can’t legally own in Oregon:
Ghost Guns and 3D-Printed Firearms: As of 2024, it’s illegal to possess unserialized firearms in Oregon. This includes homemade guns built from kits or created using 3D printers. Any firearm without a serial number is now banned. First-time violations can result in fines, and repeat offenses may lead to jail time or steeper penalties.
Fully Automatic Firearms (Machine Guns): Oregon prohibits the possession of fully automatic firearms unless they are legally registered under federal law. Machine guns manufactured after May 19, 1986, are generally banned. Owning one legally requires ATF registration and strict compliance with federal rules.
Armor-Piercing Ammunition: Handgun ammunition designed to penetrate soft body armor, such as those coated with Teflon or similar substances, is banned if intended for use in a crime. Possessing armor-piercing ammo in unlawful situations is treated as a serious offense under state law.
Unregistered Short-Barreled Rifles and Shotguns: Rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches or shotguns with barrels under 18 inches are illegal unless registered with the ATF. Possessing these without proper federal registration is a felony. You must go through a formal process, including background checks and tax stamps, to own one legally.
Are Threaded Barrels Illegal in Oregon?
The state doesn’t currently have a law that specifically bans firearms equipped with threaded barrels. Although ownership remains legal, it's advisable for firearm owners to stay informed about potential changes in legislation that could affect the legality of threaded barrels in the future.
Are AR Pistols Legal?
Yes, AR pistols are legal to own and possess in Oregon. The state doesn’t have specific laws prohibiting AR-style pistols, provided they comply with federal regulations.
Oregon Rifle Laws
Oregon rifle laws are fairly lenient compared to some other states, especially when it comes to ownership. Residents who are at least 18 years old can legally possess most types of rifles, including bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic models.
The Guide To The Oregon Assault Weapons Conclusion
Understanding Oregon’s firearm laws can feel like navigating a moving target, especially when rules are shifting so often. While many types of firearms are still legal to own, others—like ghost guns or unregistered short-barreled rifles—are now off-limits. Knowing what’s allowed and what’s not is key to staying on the right side of the law.
If you’re dealing with gun-related legal issues or want to restore your firearm rights, reach out to Oregon Gun Law. With Shawn Kollie leading the way, our team has the experience to guide you through the process and help protect your rights.
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
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