State Gun Laws – Maryland – Saul Roth

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By Saul Roth

Here’s an overview of gun laws in the state of Maryland. Please note that laws can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to consult the most current and official sources or legal professionals for the most up-to-date information.

Permits and Licensing:

1. A Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is required to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun in Maryland. It involves a background check, fingerprinting, and completion of a training course.

2. A wear-and-carry permit is required to carry a concealed handgun in public. It is issued to individuals who can demonstrate a “good and substantial reason” to carry a concealed handgun.

Firearm Purchase and Transfers:

1. All firearm sales and transfers, including private sales, must be conducted through a licensed firearms dealer who conducts a background check.

2. There is a waiting period of 7 days for regulated firearms (handguns and assault weapons).

Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines:

1. Maryland bans the sale, transfer, possession, and manufacture of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, with exceptions for firearms possessed before October 1, 2013.

Safe Storage and Reporting:

1. Maryland has child access prevention laws that require firearms to be stored in a manner that prevents access by minors.

2. There is a requirement to report the loss or theft of a regulated firearm to law enforcement within 72 hours of discovering the loss or theft.

Carrying Firearms:

1. Open carry of firearms is generally prohibited in Maryland, except for certain law enforcement officers and individuals engaged in specific activities, such as hunting or target shooting.

2. Concealed carry of handguns requires a wear-and-carry permit, which is issued on a discretionary basis.

Stand Your Ground Law:

1. Maryland does not have a Stand Your Ground law. The state follows a “duty to retreat” principle, meaning individuals have a duty to retreat from a threat before using force, unless they are in their own home or place of business.

It’s important to consult the official Maryland state statutes or seek legal advice to obtain comprehensive and up-to-date information on the specific provisions and requirements of Maryland’s gun laws.