Navigating West Virginia’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 West Virginia. For related resources, check out our detailed breakdown of ghost gun laws, 80% lowers, and more.
Summary and Gun-Friendliness Rating for West Virginia
Summary: West Virginia 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 West Virginia
West Virginia currently has no state-level ban on assault weapons. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Magazine Capacity Limits in West Virginia
West Virginia does not impose magazine capacity limits at the state level. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Ghost Gun Laws in West Virginia
West Virginia has no specific state laws regulating ghost guns (unserialized firearms). Source: Giffords Law Center.
Concealed Carry in West Virginia
- Permit Type:
- Permitless (Giffords Law Center)
- Description:
- In West Virginia, a permit is generally not required to carry a concealed handgun.
Waiting Period in West Virginia
West Virginia does not mandate a waiting period between the purchase and delivery of firearms. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Red Flag Laws in West Virginia
West Virginia does not have red flag laws (Extreme Risk Protection Orders) in place. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Safe Storage Requirements in West Virginia
Requirement Level: None (Source: Giffords Law Center)
Description: West Virginia does not mandate specific firearm storage requirements at the state level.
Background Checks in West Virginia
West Virginia does not require universal background checks for all firearm sales; federal laws still apply to licensed dealers. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Open Carry in West Virginia
Open carry of firearms is generally allowed in West Virginia, potentially subject to local restrictions or permit requirements in certain areas. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Types of Guns Regulated in West Virginia
West Virginia does not have specific state-level bans on particular types of firearms beyond federal law. Source: Giffords Law Center.
Important Legal Cases in West Virginia
- West Virginia v. Donnell (2019): Concealed carry enforcement
- State v. Herald (2017): Firearm possession laws
- West Virginia v. Young (2021): Second Amendment challenge
- State v. O’Dell (2015): Public carry restrictions
Our Opinion on West Virginia’s Gun Laws
As staunch defenders of the Second Amendment, Husky Armory views West Virginia’s gun laws as a beacon of freedom for law-abiding citizens. With a gun-friendliness rating of 100/100, West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia’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.
