Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Transport, and Repair of Certain Weapons Lawyer in St. Louis, MO
Missouri bans all individuals and business entities from possessing, manufacturing, transporting, or repairing nine types of weapons, with limited exceptions. Getting caught with these weapons can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment.
Combs Waterkotte has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients accused of a wide range of offenses, including gun charges. We can guide you through the criminal justice process and work toward a fair outcome in your case.
Call a St. Louis gun charges defense attorney at Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
Why Does Missouri Have Laws Covering the Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Transport, and Repair of Certain Weapons?
State and federal authorities believe that certain weapons pose a greater danger than others. These include bombs and machine guns, which can be used by criminals or terrorist groups. Because of their high lethality, the government restricts their manufacture, transport, repair, and possession—even without any use or violent intent.
Unfortunately, the law’s broad scope means that even well-meaning individuals can face criminal charges. Simply working with someone or unknowingly handling the wrong object may expose you to prosecution.
Missouri Laws Against the Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Transport, and Repair of Certain Weapons
Prohibited Weapons in St. Louis, MO
Under Missouri law, it is illegal to knowingly be involved in transactions or handling of the following weapons:
- Explosive weapons or their materials
- Gas guns
- Exploding ammunition
- Metal knuckles
- Machine guns
- Short-barreled rifles or shotguns
- Firearm silencers
- Switchblade knives
Prohibited Acts in St. Louis, MO
Illegal acts include possession, manufacture, transport, repair, and sale of these weapons. Possession may be actual (on your person) or constructive (within your control, such as in a locked safe).
Manufacture likely includes both building and converting weapons. Transport covers any movement—including shipping or hiring someone else to move the weapon. Courts interpret these terms by their standard definitions.
Missouri Laws Covering Related Offenses
- Defacing or Possessing a Defaced Firearm: Illegal regardless of who defaced the serial number.
- Possession of an Explosive Weapon by a Prohibited Person: Applies to felons, fugitives, the habitually intoxicated, and the mentally incompetent. No knowledge or intent is required.
Possible Defenses Against Charges of Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Transport, and Repair of Certain Weapons
- Lack of Intent: If you did not knowingly engage in the prohibited act, you may be able to avoid conviction. Example: Inheriting a weapon you didn’t know was illegal.
- Statutory Exception: You are exempt if your actions were part of official military, law enforcement, or commercial activities, or for museum or performance use.
Possible Penalties for Possession, Manufacture, Transport, Repair, or Sale of Certain Weapons
- Offense:
- Dealing in explosive weapons, gas guns, silencers, machine guns, short-barreled rifles or shotguns, or switchblades
- Dealing in metal knuckles or explosive ammo
- Defacing a firearm
- Possessing a defaced firearm
- Explosive weapon possession by a prohibited person
- Penalty:
- Class D felony; up to 7 years in prison
- Class A misdemeanor; up to 1 year in jail
- Class A misdemeanor; up to 1 year in jail
- Class B misdemeanor; up to 6 months in jail
- Class D felony; up to 7 years in prison
