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Wisconsin

WI
moderate

Firearm Regulations

Assault Weapon Ban
No
Mag Capacity Limit
No
Permit to Purchase
No
Firearm Registration
No
Concealed Carry
Shall Issue (21+)
Open Carry
Yes, no permit
Red Flag Law
No
Background Check (Private)
No
NFA Weapons
Machine guns restricted
State Preemption
Yes

Key Notes

Handgun purchases require state background check fee via DOJ (in addition to federal). Machine guns may not shoot pistol cartridges or be possessed aggressively/offensively.

  • •Shall Issue (21+) Concealed Carry — Wisconsin must issue a Concealed Carry Weapon license to qualified applicants 21 and older. Training is required.
  • •Machine guns restricted (NFA) — Machine guns may not shoot pistol cartridges and cannot be possessed 'aggressively or offensively.' SBRs, SBS, and suppressors are legal with the federal tax stamp.
  • •Yes, no permit (Open Carry) — Open carry of handguns and long guns is legal without any permit.
  • •State Background Check Fee — Handgun purchases require a state background check through the Wisconsin DOJ in addition to the federal NICS check. A fee is charged for this service.
  • •State Preemption: Yes — Local governments cannot enact their own firearm regulations.
  • •No Background Check (Private) — Private sales between individuals do not require a state background check.

Last updated January 15, 2026

WVWY

Legal Disclaimer: This page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. Always verify current regulations with official state sources, a qualified attorney, or local law enforcement before making purchasing or carrying decisions. GunPartPicker is not responsible for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this information.