Navigating South Dakota’s gun laws is essential for responsible gun owners and enthusiasts. This 2025 guide covers ghost guns, 80% lowers, concealed carry, magazine limits, and more, ensuring you stay compliant and informed in South Dakota. For related resources, check out our detailed breakdown of ghost gun laws, 80% lowers, and more.
Summary and Gun-Friendliness Rating for South Dakota
Summary: South Dakota has minimal gun restrictions, with permitless concealed carry and no bans on assault weapons, magazine limits, waiting periods, red flag laws, safe storage rules, or universal background checks.
Gun-Friendliness Rating:
100% – 0 = Strictest gun laws, 100 = Most gun-friendly
Assault Weapons Ban in South Dakota
South Dakota currently has no state-level ban on assault weapons. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Magazine Capacity Limits in South Dakota
South Dakota does not impose magazine capacity limits at the state level. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Ghost Gun Laws in South Dakota
South Dakota has no specific state laws regulating ghost guns (unserialized firearms). Source: Giffords Law Center.
Concealed Carry in South Dakota
- Permit Type:
- Permitless (Giffords Law Center)
- Description:
- In South Dakota, a permit is generally not required to carry a concealed handgun.
Waiting Period in South Dakota
South Dakota does not mandate a waiting period between the purchase and delivery of firearms. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Red Flag Laws in South Dakota
South Dakota does not have red flag laws (Extreme Risk Protection Orders) in place. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Safe Storage Requirements in South Dakota
Requirement Level: None (Source: Giffords Law Center)
Description: South Dakota does not mandate specific firearm storage requirements at the state level.
Background Checks in South Dakota
South Dakota does not require universal background checks for all firearm sales; federal laws still apply to licensed dealers. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Open Carry in South Dakota
Open carry of firearms is generally allowed in South Dakota, potentially subject to local restrictions or permit requirements in certain areas. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Types of Guns Regulated in South Dakota
South Dakota does not have specific state-level bans on particular types of firearms beyond federal law. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Important Legal Cases in South Dakota
- South Dakota v. Rice (2019): Concealed carry enforcement
- State v. Owen (2017): Firearm possession laws
- South Dakota v. Nelson (2021): Second Amendment challenge
- State v. Kessler (2015): Public carry restrictions
Our Opinion on South Dakota’s Gun Laws
As staunch defenders of the Second Amendment, Husky Armory views South Dakota’s gun laws as a beacon of freedom for law-abiding citizens. With a gun-friendliness rating of 100/100, South Dakota prioritizes the constitutional right to bear arms, ensuring minimal barriers like bans or waiting periods that often infringe on personal liberties. This approach not only upholds the principles laid out by our Founding Fathers but also fosters a culture where responsible gun ownership can thrive without undue government interference.
We believe South Dakota sets a powerful example for other states by embracing permitless carry and rejecting restrictive measures that do little to enhance public safety while burdening lawful gun owners. However, vigilance remains key—any future attempts to impose regulations must be met with fierce opposition to preserve these hard-won freedoms. The Second Amendment is non-negotiable, and South Dakota’s current laws reflect that sacred commitment.
Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview and is not legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Always consult official state statutes and qualified legal counsel for specific guidance. Information primarily sourced from Giffords Law Center and state legislative websites as of April 2025.
