18 U.S.C. § 922 – Unlawful acts (firearms offenses, including possession by prohibited persons and firearm trafficking)
This statute lists many federal gun offenses, including unlawful possession, illegal sales, and trafficking of firearms.
Section 922 contains the main federal rules that make certain firearms-related acts illegal. It covers who may possess a firearm, how guns may be sold or transferred, and which weapons are banned under federal law. The penalties for violating this statute are handled in Section 924.
(g) Possession by prohibited persons.
A person violates this law if they possess, receive, or transport a firearm or ammunition and fall into one of the prohibited categories, such as:
- someone convicted of a felony,
- a fugitive from justice,
- a person who unlawfully uses controlled substances,
- someone with certain mental health adjudications,
- a person convicted of domestic violence offenses, or
- a person subject to certain restraining orders.
(d) Unlawful sales or transfers.
It is illegal to sell or give a firearm or ammunition to someone the seller knows or reasonably believes is prohibited from possessing it.
(a), (b), and (x) Rules for dealers and trafficking.
Federal law regulates firearm dealers and prohibits:
- selling guns across state lines without proper licensing,
- selling guns without recording required information,
- buying or selling guns for unlawful purposes, and
- straw purchases—buying a gun on behalf of someone prohibited from owning one.
(o) Possession of machineguns.
It is unlawful to possess or transfer a machinegun unless it is legally registered under federal law and falls within certain narrow exceptions.
(k) Firearms stolen or shipped illegally.
The statute prohibits possessing a stolen firearm, stealing firearms from licensed dealers, and transporting guns that were taken unlawfully.
(j) Firearms used in crimes.
A person may face additional penalties for using or carrying a firearm during the commission of certain federal crimes.
Because this statute covers many different types of firearm conduct, the specific penalties depend on the subsection involved and the person’s criminal history.
If you’re facing a federal firearm charge, understanding your rights is essential. Message our team or call (314) 900-HELP to speak with a federal criminal defense attorney.
