Best and Worst States for Gun Rights — See Where Yours Is On The List

Gun laws differ widely across the United States, shaping how residents can buy, carry, and use firearms. Whether you’re a dedicated gun owner or just starting out, it’s important to know how your state compares. This guide combines research from two detailed reports by Ammo.com—one ranking the most gun friendly states and another listing the worst states to be a gun owner. By blending their findings, we’ve created a complete list of all 50 states, from the most gun-friendly to the most restrictive.

Here’s where your state stands in 2025 when it comes to Second Amendment freedoms.

#50 New Hampshire (Best State for Gun Rights)

New Hampshire allows Constitutional Carry, meaning citizens over 18 can open or conceal carry without a permit. The state honors permits from all 50 states, and residents can travel to 29 others with a pistol and revolver license. There’s no state sales tax, making firearms purchases cheaper. Federal background checks are required, but no additional safety courses, fingerprinting, or registrations are necessary. The state also issues permits to non-residents, though they are valid only in New Hampshire. Stand-your-ground laws protect individuals defending life or property, with no duty to retreat. NH allows teachers to carry in the classroom without restriction.

Governor Kelly Ayotte supports Second Amendment rights and opposes restrictive gun laws, maintaining New Hampshire’s strong pro-gun stance. These policies keep it one of the most gun-friendly states in the U.S.

#49 West Virginia

West Virginia supports Constitutional Carry for individuals over 21, while those 18 and older can apply for a provisional license. Carry Handgun Licenses (CHLs) are valid in 38 other states, and West Virginia accepts permits from all 50 states. To obtain a CHL, residents must complete a gun safety course. The state does not require firearm registration or extra background checks beyond federal laws. Stand-your-ground protections exist, with no duty to retreat, and citizens are shielded from civil and criminal liability when acting lawfully. Firearm sales are tax-free. Governor Patrick Morrisey strongly supports Second Amendment rights, promoting legislation that protects both gun owners and firearm manufacturers, making West Virginia a highly pro-gun state.

#48 Arkansas

Arkansas allows lawful residents over 18 to open or conceal carry firearms without extra permits in most cases. Carrying in restricted areas requires an enhanced license, which involves background checks and safety training. Standard permits are recognized in 37 states, and Arkansas accepts permits from all 50 states. The state has no firearm registration or Red Flag Laws. Although firearms are normally subject to sales tax, occasional tax holidays make firearm purchases more affordable. Stand-your-ground laws apply, meaning no duty to retreat. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders supports protecting gun rights and plans to sign laws that strengthen these freedoms. Arkansas’s minimal restrictions and pro-2A leadership make it one of the more gun-friendly states.

#47 Montana

Montana has Constitutional Carry, allowing residents to open or concealed carry without a permit or registration. There’s no state sales tax, making firearms more affordable. Residents can obtain a Montana CCW, valid in 34 states, while Montana honors 43 other states’ permits. The state’s Use of Force policies protect citizens who use deadly force in self-defense or to stop a felony, provided their actions are reasonable. Governor Greg Gianforte is a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, publicly opposing federal anti-gun measures. These freedoms, combined with supportive leadership and broad reciprocity agreements, keep Montana near the top for gun owners seeking minimal restrictions and a pro-2A environment.

#46 South Dakota

South Dakota offers both open and concealed Constitutional Carry to residents as young as 18. No firearm registration or extra background checks are required beyond federal laws. Residents can apply for an enhanced carry permit, recognized by 38 other states, or a Gold Card, which lets them bypass federal background checks through NICS. Stand-your-ground and no-duty-to-retreat laws protect individuals defending their lives or property. Firearms are completely tax-free following the passage of House Bill 1078. Governor Gary Rhoden has consistently supported legislation reducing restrictions for gun owners, making South Dakota one of the most supportive states for firearms rights.

#45 Mississippi

Mississippi residents 18 and older can open carry, while those over 21 can conceal carry without a permit. The state offers permits for those who want to travel to 35 other states or carry in restricted areas. Mississippi honors CCWs from all 50 states. Only federal background checks are required, and there are no registration requirements in place. While standard sales tax applies, tax holidays occasionally exempt firearms and ammunition from taxation. Stand-your-ground protections apply, with no duty to retreat. Governor Tate Reeves strongly backs the Second Amendment and has passed laws to block registries and gun tracking, securing Mississippi’s place as a gun-friendly state.

#44 Missouri

Missouri permits Constitutional Carry for individuals 19 and older, allowing residents to openly or conceal carry firearms freely. Missouri honors permits from all 50 states, and residents’ permits are valid in 36 others. No firearm registration is required, and there are no limits on magazine capacity. Purchases require federal background checks, and firearms are subject to sales tax. Missouri’s self-defense laws include no duty to retreat, protecting those acting to defend themselves or others. Governor Mike Kehoe’s voting record shows consistent support for gun rights, ensuring Missouri remains a strong state for firearm owners.

#43 Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers Constitutional Carry to citizens 21 and older, with an exception for active-duty military at 18. The state recognizes permits from all 50 states, and residents’ permits are valid in 38 states. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect individuals from criminal and civil liability when acting lawfully, with no duty to retreat. Oklahoma does not ban machine guns beyond federal law restrictions. Standard sales tax applies to firearms and ammunition, but a proposed bill could introduce exemptions. Governor Kevin Stitt’s actions, including proclaiming NRA Day, highlight the state’s pro-gun stance and commitment to maintaining these freedoms.

#42 Texas

Texas allows Constitutional Carry for residents 21 and older, meaning they can carry a firearm openly or concealed without a permit. Due to a court ruling, individuals 18–20 may also carry, though this could change in the future. Texas honors permits from 44 other states, and residents can travel to 37 states with enhanced permits. Firearms and ammunition are taxed, but safety equipment, such as safes and locks, is exempt. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect those defending life or property, with no duty to retreat. Governor Greg Abbott is a strong supporter of gun rights, having signed significant legislation to secure Texas’s standing as one of the most firearm-friendly states.

#41 North Dakota

North Dakota offers open and concealed Constitutional Carry for residents 18 and older with no felony convictions or pending charges. Even individuals with past convictions may restore their rights after serving their sentence. The state honors permits from 38 other states, and residents can carry in 39 states with a North Dakota permit. No firearm registration or extra background checks are required. Stand-your-ground laws apply, with no duty to retreat and civil immunity for justified use of deadly force. Governor Doug Burgum declared North Dakota a Second Amendment Sanctuary State, signaling strong ongoing support for gun rights.

#40 Idaho

Idaho residents can open or concealed carry without a permit under Constitutional Carry laws. Visitors must have a CCW permit, which Idaho honors from all 50 states. Standard state sales tax applies to firearms and accessories, but no registration or additional background checks are required. The state has strong self-defense protections through stand-your-ground laws, which eliminate the duty to retreat. Governor Brad Little has taken steps to protect gun owners’ privacy, including signing the Credit Card Privacy Bill. Idaho remains one of the best states for firearms freedom thanks to its minimal restrictions and pro-2A leadership.

#39 Wyoming

Wyoming allows Constitutional Carry for law-abiding citizens, who can carry either openly or concealed without a permit. For travel, residents can obtain enhanced permits recognized by 35 other states. No registration or additional background checks are required. A 4% state sales tax applies to firearms and safety equipment. Wyoming protects its citizens through strong stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws, offering clear legal protection when defending life or property. Governor Mark Gordon signed the 2A Protection Act to shield residents’ rights from federal interference, further ensuring Wyoming stays among the most gun-friendly states.

#38 Alaska

Alaska offers Constitutional Carry for residents aged 21 and above, allowing open or concealed carry without a permit. There is no state sales tax, making firearms more affordable. Alaska honors permits from all 50 states, and residents can travel to 26 other states with their permits. No additional registration or background checks are required beyond federal forms. Stand-your-ground protections apply, with no duty to retreat unless the individual is the aggressor. Governor Mike Dunleavy strongly supports gun rights, including campus carry, ensuring Alaska remains a top state for gun owners seeking maximum freedom and minimal government interference.

#37 South Carolina

South Carolina allows Constitutional Carry for anyone 18 and older who can legally own a firearm, with both open and concealed carry permitted without a license. The state does not require background checks for private sales, and carry permits can serve as a substitute for background checks when purchasing from dealers. Occasionally, South Carolina offers tax holidays on the purchase of firearms and ammunition. Strong stand-your-ground laws protect individuals who act in self-defense, with no duty to retreat from the situation. Governor Henry McMaster is a vocal supporter of the Second Amendment and has pushed for tougher penalties for illegal firearm possession. These policies make South Carolina an attractive state for law-abiding gun owners seeking freedom and legal protection.

#36 Alabama

Alabama provides Constitutional Carry for residents aged 19 and above, allowing open and concealed carry without a permit. Those who wish to obtain a CCW can apply through their local sheriff’s office for a small fee and undergo a background check. Alabama honors permits from 48 other states, and residents can travel to 32 states with an Alabama concealed carry permit. Firearm registration is not required; however, purchases are taxed at the standard sales rate. Strong stand-your-ground and castle doctrine protections apply, with no duty to retreat. Governor Kay Ivey, affectionately known as “Memaw Ivey,” recently signed legislation affirming these rights, ensuring Alabama remains a top state for gun owners.

#35 Kentucky

Kentucky allows residents 21 and older to open or conceal carry without a permit. The state accepts CCWs from all 50 states, and Kentucky permits are valid in 37 other states. Federal background checks are required for purchases, but there are no state-level registration requirements. Firearms are taxed at standard rates, though tax exemptions are being considered. Stand-your-ground protections shield citizens acting in self-defense, with no duty to retreat from the aggressor. Governor Andy Beshear has supported Second Amendment rights and did not oppose legislation designating Kentucky as a Second Amendment Sanctuary State, reinforcing its reputation as a gun-friendly state.

#34 Tennessee

Tennessee offers Constitutional Carry for residents 21 and older, allowing open and concealed carry without a license. To obtain a CCW, applicants must meet criteria similar to those used in federal background checks. Tennessee has reciprocity with 37 states and honors permits from 48 states. While firearms and accessories are taxed, safety equipment may qualify for tax exemptions. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect those acting lawfully in self-defense, though they do not cover criminal activity. The state performs both state and federal background checks. Governor Bill Lee has blocked extreme gun control measures, such as red flag laws, showing strong support for gun owners.

#33 Florida

Florida, often called “The Gunshine State,” allows Constitutional Concealed Carry, meaning residents can conceal carry without a permit. Open carry is only legal while hunting, fishing, camping, or traveling to those activities. Florida honors permits from 35 states, and its own permits are valid in 37 others. Federal background checks are required for firearm purchases, and the state imposes additional standards that limit ownership. Firearms and ammunition are subject to standard sales tax, and there are no registration requirements for these items. Stand-your-ground laws protect individuals defending themselves without a duty to retreat. Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Constitutional Carry law, keeping Florida firmly in the pro-gun category.

#32 Louisiana

Louisiana allows Constitutional Carry for residents 18 and older, though open carry is not fully covered under state law. There are restrictions on carrying firearms at parades and bars. The state issues Concealed Handgun Permits (CHPs), which allow holders to travel to 37 other states, and it also accepts permits from 37 other states. Federal background checks are required, but no additional permits or registration are necessary for purchasing firearms. Standard sales tax applies to firearms and ammunition, though the state occasionally holds tax holidays for accessories and safety gear. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect lawful self-defense with no duty to retreat. Governor Jeff Landry signed Constitutional Carry into law, strengthening gun rights in the state.

#31 Indiana

Indiana permits anyone 18 years or older to open or conceal carry without a license, unless they are legally prohibited from owning a firearm. The state honors permits from 48 other states, and Indiana residents can travel to 32 states with their permits. Indiana has Red Flag Laws, which allow police to confiscate firearms from individuals deemed a danger temporarily, but courts must review the decision within 14 days. No registration is required for firearms. Standard sales tax applies; however, a bill is under consideration to exempt firearms and ammunition. Governor Eric Holcomb has supported Constitutional Carry while also limiting devices that convert guns into fully automatic weapons.

#30 Georgia

Georgia allows Constitutional Carry for individuals 21 and older who can legally possess firearms. While open carry is allowed, some areas require concealment. Georgia honors permits from 32 states, and its Weapons Carry License (WCL) is valid in 33 other states. Residents do not need to register firearms or obtain purchase permits. Firearms and ammunition are taxed at standard rates without exemptions. The state’s stand-your-ground laws provide legal protection to individuals defending themselves without a duty to retreat. Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation that expanded open carry rights, demonstrating Georgia’s strong commitment to Second Amendment protections.

#29 Iowa

Iowa allows Constitutional Carry for law-abiding citizens, allowing them to open or conceal carry without a permit. However, a Permit to Carry Weapons (PCW) is available for those over 21 or for employment-related needs if under 18. Iowa honors permits from 49 states, and its PCW is valid in 33 states. Standard sales tax applies to firearms and ammunition, though some lawmakers have proposed tax holidays. Stand-your-ground protections shield those acting in self-defense. Governor Kim Reynolds helped remove purchase permit requirements and supports lowering the minimum age for buying handguns to 18. These changes highlight Iowa’s progress in protecting gun owners’ rights.

#28 Kansas

Kansas offers Constitutional Carry for residents aged 18 and older, allowing them to carry a firearm openly or concealed without a license. While permits aren’t required, citizens can apply for a Concealed Carry Handgun License (CCHL) to travel to 39 other states. There are no state-level firearm registration or extra background check requirements beyond federal laws. Kansas does not offer tax breaks on firearms or safety accessories, and standard rates apply. The state has castle doctrine laws that exempt individuals from the duty to retreat, thereby protecting lawful self-defense. Governor Laura Kelly has opposed some pro-gun bills, including one that would have added firearm training in schools.

#27 Arizona

Arizona is a Constitutional Carry state, allowing residents to carry a firearm openly or concealed without a permit. Those 18 and older can open carry, while only individuals over 21 can purchase handguns and conceal carry without a permit. Arizona also issues Concealed Weapon Permits (CWPs) for travel, valid in 36 other states. The state’s castle doctrine laws protect lawful self-defense, with no duty to retreat from one’s home. Firearms are subject to regular sales tax but are exempt from the Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) as of January 2023. While Arizona is highly pro-gun, new Governor Katie Hobbs has a voting record that suggests future challenges to gun rights, creating uncertainty for the state’s standing.

#26 Utah

Utah allows open or concealed carry for residents over 18, though carrying loaded firearms without a permit is restricted to those over 21. Permits are not required for private sales, and there’s no state-level background check for these transactions. Firearm buyers must pay a $7.50 fee for standard background checks unless they hold an in-state CCW. Utah also provides tax exemptions on firearms and ammunition purchases. Stand-your-ground laws protect individuals acting lawfully in self-defense, with no duty to retreat. Governor Spencer Cox has expressed willingness to discuss regulation but also signed legislation preventing local governments from imposing additional gun control measures.

#25 Ohio

Ohio allows Constitutional Carry for residents 21 and older, with open or concealed carry permitted without a license. The state issues Concealed Handgun Licenses (CHLs) for those who want to travel, valid in 38 other states. Ohio honors permits from 49 states. Federal background checks are required for purchases, and sellers must have a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Ohio’s castle doctrine and stand-your-ground laws protect lawful self-defense, with no duty to retreat. However, because Ohio limits permitless carry to those 21 and older, it ranks lower compared to states offering these rights at 18. Governor Mike DeWine has signed multiple pro-gun bills supporting firearm owners.

#24 North Carolina

North Carolina permits open carry for residents aged 18 and above, although some cities and counties require concealed carry permits even for open carry. The state issues Concealed Handgun Permits (CHPs), which allow holders to travel to 37 states, and it accepts permits from 48 other states. Firearms and ammunition are taxed at standard rates, with no exemptions. Self-defense laws provide legal protection against prosecution, but state leadership is divided. Governor Josh Stein supports stricter gun control measures like ghost gun bans and safe storage requirements, while the legislature leans pro-2A. This political split makes the future of gun laws in North Carolina unpredictable.

#23 Maine

Maine allows open and concealed carry without a permit for individuals 21 and older who are legally permitted to possess firearms. Residents between 18 and 20 may purchase rifles or shotguns but not handguns. The state honors permits from all 50 states, and Maine-issued permits are valid in 29 other states. No registration is required, though buyers must receive a safe storage pamphlet with every purchase. Safety equipment like gun safes is tax-exempt. Maine has “yellow flag” laws that let police temporarily remove firearms from dangerous individuals. Governor Janet Mills has recently supported stricter gun laws, including universal background checks and ERPOs, following a mass shooting.

#22 Nevada

Nevada permits open carry for individuals 18 and older, but concealed carry requires a permit, which is available to residents 21 and older. The Nevada CCW has various restrictions but allows residents to carry in 33 states, while Nevada honors permits from 27 states. Private sales require background checks, but firearm registration is not necessary. There are no tax exemptions for firearms, ammunition, or accessories. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect individuals who act lawfully in self-defense, with no duty to retreat. Governor Joe Lombardo has vetoed several anti-gun bills, showing his commitment to Second Amendment rights, though existing restrictions keep Nevada lower on the list.

#21 Virginia

Virginia allows open carry without a permit for individuals 18 and older, while concealed carry requires a permit at the age of 21. The state honors permits from 48 states, and residents’ permits are valid in 35 others. Universal background checks are mandatory, even for private sales. There are no tax breaks for firearms or related gear. Some areas restrict open carry, so local ordinances must be checked carefully. Virginia has castle doctrine protections, but they are limited to the home and do not fully extend to public spaces. Governor Glenn Youngkin opposes strict gun control and favors mental health initiatives, potentially improving the state’s standing for gun owners.

#20 Wisconsin

Wisconsin allows open carry without a permit but requires a Concealed Weapons License (CWL) for concealed carry, including in vehicles. Applicants must complete an eight-hour course, and approval takes about three weeks. Wisconsin honors permits from 45 states, and its CWL is valid in 33 states. Private sales don’t require background checks, though FFL dealer sales do. Firearm registration is not required, but firearms are taxed at standard rates. Castle doctrine laws protect individuals in their homes with no duty to retreat, but self-defense protections don’t extend to defending property alone. Governor Tony Evers is open to new gun control laws, though the legislature remains largely pro-gun.

#19 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania allows open carry without a permit for individuals 18 and older, while concealed carry requires a License to Carry Firearms (LTC) for those over 21. The LTC is valid in 32 states, and Pennsylvania honors permits from 29 other states. Purchases from private sellers must go through an FFL, and the state police keep firearm transaction records. A $3 surcharge applies to each firearm purchase, in addition to the regular sales tax. Stand-your-ground and castle doctrine laws protect those acting in self-defense, with no duty to retreat. Governor Josh Shapiro supports expanded background checks and weapon bans, but the state legislature has resisted these measures.

#18 Michigan

Michigan allows open carry without a permit for eligible residents. Concealed carry requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL), which is valid in 39 other states. Michigan also honors permits from all 50 states. A permit is also required to purchase firearms, and sellers must keep records of all transactions. Individuals between 18 and 21 can purchase pistols privately with a purchase license, whereas FFL sales require buyers to be 21 years of age or older. Safety equipment, such as gun safes, is tax-exempt, but firearms and ammunition are not. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has passed multiple anti-gun measures, including ERPOs, ensuring Michigan remains among the least gun-friendly states.

#17 Nebraska

Nebraska allows permitless open carry for those 18 and older in most areas. To purchase a firearm, residents must have a permit to purchase or a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). Concealed carry permits require training and are available to residents who are at least 21 years old. Nebraska honors permits from 35 states, and residents’ permits are valid in 33 other states. Firearms and accessories are taxed at standard rates, with no exemptions. While castle doctrine laws exist, citizens have a duty to retreat when defending themselves in someone else’s home or workplace. Governor Jim Pillen supports gun rights and signed permitless carry into law, though the state’s restrictions keep it lower on the list.

#16 Delaware

Delaware allows open carry without a permit for individuals 21 years of age and older. Concealed carry requires a Concealed Deadly Weapons License (CDWL), which is available at 18 with proper training. Delaware honors permits from 21 states, and residents can carry in 30 other states. The state has castle doctrine protections at home, but in public, citizens have a duty to retreat. Firearms and ammunition are not taxed in Delaware, as the state does not have a sales tax. However, universal background checks are required for all firearm sales, including private ones, and permits are necessary for handgun purchases. Governor Matt Meyer supports more gun control and has enacted bans on certain firearms and high-capacity magazines.

#15 Oregon

Oregon allows open carry without a permit, but concealed carry requires a Concealed Handgun License (CHL). Applicants must be 21 or older and complete training or have military experience. Oregon CHLs are recognized in 25 states; however, Oregon does not honor out-of-state permits. Private sales must go through an FFL for federal background checks. While there’s no sales tax, Oregon imposes strict gun laws. Self-defense laws are less clear, leaving interpretation to courts and past rulings. Governor Tina Kotek supports stronger background checks, dealer inspections, and weapon bans, which continue to restrict gun rights in the state.

#14 Vermont

Vermont permits open and concealed carry without a permit starting at the age of 16, although federal law sets 18 as the minimum age. Firearms cannot be sold privately without going through an FFL dealer, and buyers under 21 cannot purchase firearms. Vermont enforces magazine capacity limits and bans accessories such as bump stocks. Background checks are required for most transfers, except for immediate family members. The state does not offer tax breaks on firearms or accessories. While there are limited self-defense protections, residents must comply with various restrictions. Governor Phil Scott has a record of supporting gun control measures, keeping Vermont on this list.

#13 New Mexico

New Mexico allows residents 19 and older to carry openly. Concealed carry requires a Concealed Handgun License (CHL), available at 21 after a 15-hour training course. The process includes up to 90 days for background checks and an additional 30 days for approval. Residents can carry in 36 states, and New Mexico honors permits from 20 states. Background checks are mandatory for all sales, including private ones. Firearms are subject to an 11% sales tax. While citizens can defend themselves, they are encouraged to de-escalate or flee first, as there’s no broad castle doctrine. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham supports strict gun control measures, including storage laws and bans on certain gun parts.

#12 Minnesota

Minnesota requires residents to obtain a Permit to Carry a Pistol (PCP) to legally carry handguns, whether openly or concealed. With a PCP, residents can carry in 30 other states, though Minnesota only honors permits from 15 states. Background checks are required for private purchases of pistols and certain rifles classified as “semiautomatic military-style.” Standard state sales tax applies to firearms, ammunition, and safety gear. While there are self-defense protections, residents have a duty to retreat when outside their homes. Governor Tim Walz and the state legislature recently passed strict gun control laws, including red flag laws and binary trigger bans, making Minnesota one of the most restrictive states for gun owners.

#11 Washington

Washington permits open carry without a license, but concealed carry or possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). The CPL is available to residents 21 and older and is valid in 28 states. Washington honors permits from only nine states. Private sales must go through an FFL, and all firearm sales are recorded with a ten-day waiting period. Tax exemptions are available for safety equipment, such as gun safes and lock boxes. Governor Bob Ferguson and the legislature support additional gun control measures, including permits to purchase firearms, which would add further restrictions for gun owners.

#10 Colorado

Colorado allows open carry without a permit, but concealed carry requires a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). A CHP also grants reciprocity with 33 other states, and Colorado honors permits from 33 states. All firearm purchases, including private sales, must go through an FFL for state and federal background checks. The state enforces safe storage laws but does not provide tax exemptions for firearms or accessories. Colorado lacks a stand-your-ground law, although statutes do protect those acting lawfully in self-defense from prosecution. Governor Jared Polis and the legislature have passed restrictive laws, including universal background checks, waiting periods, and limits on the purchase of semi-automatic firearms.

#9 Rhode Island

Rhode Island has strict rules requiring residents to obtain a Handgun Safety Certification, also known as a “blue card,” before purchasing a firearm. Carry permits require proof of need and may be issued by local authorities or the Attorney General’s office. There is a mandatory seven-day waiting period for purchases, and residents must be at least 21 years old to buy firearms. Large-capacity magazines are banned, and there are gun registration requirements in place. Rhode Island has castle doctrine protections, allowing defense without a duty to retreat in one’s home. Governor Dan McKee has announced plans to push for an assault weapons ban, further tightening gun restrictions in the state.

#8 Maryland

Maryland residents must complete a 16-hour training course to apply for a Wear and Carry Handgun Permit (WCHP). The state does not honor permits from other states, but Maryland permits are valid in 26 other states. Residents must also obtain a permit to purchase, register their firearms, and undergo a background check for each purchase. There is a $500 tax exemption for approved safety equipment; however, firearms and ammunition are subject to tax. Maryland bans certain firearms, including ghost guns and some assault weapons. Governor Wes Moore strongly supports gun control, working to expand restrictions and enforcement throughout the state.

#7 Connecticut

Connecticut requires residents to obtain a Connecticut State Pistol Permit (CSPP) to carry a firearm. The application process includes a mandatory safety course with live-fire training. With a CSPP, residents can carry in 27 other states. Firearms and safety equipment purchases may be eligible for tax exemptions. When using force in self-defense, the burden of proof lies with the individual, and there is a legal duty to retreat when possible. Governor Ned Lamont continues to advocate for stricter laws, including limiting firearm purchases to one per month. Connecticut’s combination of strict permits and retreat laws keeps it among the least gun-friendly states.

#6 New Jersey

New Jersey has one of the strictest firearm permitting processes in the country. Residents must first apply through the local police, then seek approval from higher courts to obtain a Permit to Carry a Handgun (PCH). This permit allows carry in 26 states, though New Jersey honors no other state’s permits. To purchase firearms or even handgun ammunition, residents must have a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC). While castle doctrine protections exist, overall freedoms are highly limited. Governor Phil Murphy is actively pursuing even tighter restrictions on gun ownership, ensuring that New Jersey remains a challenging state for firearm enthusiasts.

#5 Illinois

Illinois allows concealed carry with a Concealed Carry License (CCL) for residents 21 and older, but open carry is banned. Applicants must complete 16 hours of training, and permits can be denied at law enforcement discretion. The state issues permits to non-residents from six states but honors none in return. All firearm buyers must have a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. While there is no registration requirement, there are no tax breaks for firearms or equipment. Recently, Illinois enacted bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. These laws, supported by Governor JB Pritzker, ensure the state remains restrictive for gun owners.

#4 New York

New York requires a Pistol License (NYPL) to carry a loaded firearm outside the home. All handguns and certain rifles are required to be registered, and strict background checks and purchase permits are in place. Visitors are prohibited from carrying firearms in New York, and the state bans various types of firearms, magazines, and accessories. Residents must secure firearms at all times and pay standard sales tax. Self-defense laws include a duty to retreat outside the home unless retreat is clearly unsafe. Governor Kathy Hochul strongly supports further restrictions despite a recent Supreme Court ruling requiring local permitting options. These laws keep New York near the top of the most restrictive states.

#3 California

California prohibits open carry without a permit, though recent Supreme Court decisions have made obtaining one slightly easier. Residents must register assault weapons and high-capacity magazines with the state. Purchases are limited to one firearm every 30 days and require a mandatory waiting period. Surprisingly, California does have stand-your-ground protections, allowing individuals to defend themselves without retreating in life-threatening situations. However, proposed legislation aims to double firearm sales taxes and expand extreme risk protection orders. With its strict purchase limits, registration rules, and future tax increases, California remains one of the most challenging states for gun ownership.

#2 Massachusetts

Massachusetts residents must have a Firearms Identification Card or a License to Carry (LTC) to buy or possess a firearm. After purchasing a firearm, it must be registered within seven days. Tax breaks are available for safety equipment, such as gun safes and trigger locks. Residents are legally required to store firearms securely, in accordance with strict state guidelines. In self-defense situations, individuals have a duty to retreat whenever possible before using force. Governor Maura Healey is pushing for additional gun control laws in 2025, reinforcing Massachusetts’s reputation as one of the strictest states for gun owners. These regulations ensure the state remains among the worst places for firearm rights.

#1 Hawaii (Worst State for Gun Rights)

Hawaii ranks as the most restrictive state for gun ownership. Carry permits are required to possess firearms, but they are rarely issued. Even visitors must meet strict criteria, such as hunter safety certification, to bring firearms into the state. Residents must also register all firearms within five days of acquiring or bringing them into the state of Hawaii. No tax exemptions are available for firearms or safety equipment. Self-defense laws require individuals to retreat whenever possible and use only the minimal force needed to defuse a threat. Governor Josh Green strongly supports gun control, including banning certain firearms, making Hawaii the least gun-friendly state in the nation.