Navigating Washington’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 Washington. For related resources, check out our detailed breakdown of ghost gun laws, 80% lowers, and more.
Summary and Gun-Friendliness Rating for Washington
Summary: Washington enforces strict gun laws, with an assault weapons ban, a 10-round magazine limit, up to a 10-day waiting period, red flag laws, strict safe storage rules, and universal background checks.
Gun-Friendliness Rating:
0% – 0 = Strictest gun laws, 100 = Most gun-friendly
Assault Weapons Ban in Washington
Washington enforces a ban on certain firearms defined as assault weapons. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Magazine Capacity Limits in Washington
Washington restricts firearm magazines to a maximum capacity of 10 rounds. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Ghost Gun Laws in Washington
Washington regulates ghost guns, typically requiring serialization and background checks for frames and receivers. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Concealed Carry in Washington
- Permit Type:
- Shall-issue (Giffords Law Center)
- Description:
- Washington is a shall-issue state, meaning permits are issued to qualified applicants who meet statutory requirements.
Waiting Period in Washington
Washington enforces a 10/Up to10-day waiting period for firearm purchases. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Red Flag Laws in Washington
Washington has enacted red flag laws, allowing temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a danger. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Safe Storage Requirements in Washington
Requirement Level: Strict (Source: Giffords Law Center)
Description: Washington enforces strict safe storage laws, requiring firearms to be securely stored to prevent unauthorized access.
Background Checks in Washington
Washington mandates universal background checks for nearly all firearm sales, including private transfers. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Open Carry in Washington
Open carry of firearms is generally allowed in Washington, potentially subject to local restrictions or permit requirements in certain areas. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Types of Guns Regulated in Washington
In addition to assault weapons, Washington may regulate other specific types of firearms. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Important Legal Cases in Washington
- Washington v. Gant (2019): Firearm possession restrictions
- State v. Rupe (1984): Second Amendment challenge
- Washington v. Allen (2021): Red flag law application
- Kitsap County v. Kitsap Rifle (ongoing): Gun range restrictions (Source: Giffords Law Center)
Our Opinion on Washington’s Gun Laws
As advocates for the Second Amendment, Husky Armory finds Washington’s gun laws, with a dismal rating of 0/100, to be a severe infringement on constitutional rights. Washington enforces strict gun laws, with an assault weapons ban, a 10-round magazine limit, up to a 10-day waiting period, red flag laws, strict safe storage rules, and universal background checks—a litany of restrictions that stifles the freedoms of law-abiding citizens while doing little to address actual crime. The right to bear arms is a cornerstone of American liberty, and Washington’s heavy-handed approach undermines that fundamental principle.
We urge Washington to reconsider its stance, particularly on measures like assault weapons bans and universal background checks, which disproportionately burden responsible gun owners. The Second Amendment exists to protect against such overreach, and Washington must work to dismantle these barriers to ensure its citizens can exercise their rights without fear of government intrusion. Liberty demands nothing less.
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.
