By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Maddy Teka, Esq. | Last reviewed May 25, 2021
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Gun control is a hotly debated topic in the United States, pitting impassioned defenses of the Second Amendment against public safety concerns. Most gun control laws originate at the state level, but there are some federal laws that regulate gun purchases and ownership. Some states require gun buyers to wait a certain period of time before taking ownership of a gun, during which a background check is conducted. Other states have as few restrictions as possible.
Alaska's gun laws are generally less restrictive than those of many other states. For example, the state of Alaska does not require a waiting period for gun buyers, but instant background checks are required for most purchases.
Additional details of Alaska's gun control laws are listed below. See Gun Laws for related information.
Relevant Statutes (Laws) |
Alaska Statutes Title 11. Criminal Law Section 11.61
|
|---|---|
Illegal Arms |
You can't possess the following firearms in Alaska unless you have a federal permit.
Possession, sale, transfer, or manufacture of the above firearms is illegal. |
Waiting Period |
None |
Who May Not Own |
In addition to the Federal law prohibitions, you can't own a gun in Alaska if you are:
|
License Required? |
No |
Concealed Carry License Required? |
No |
Open Carried Allowed? |
Yes |
Eligibility for a Concealed Carry License |
You don't need a license to carry a concealed weapon in Alaska. But to carry a concealed handgun you must:
|
Machine Gun Laws |
It's illegal to own a machine gun in Alaska unless you can show it is legally registered in compliance with federal laws. |
Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession |
Illegal firearm possession is considered a:
|
Penalties for Illegal Possession on or Near School Grounds |
|
Note: State laws are always changing, usually when newly signed legislation is enacted or through the decisions of higher courts. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these pages, you also may want to contact an Alaska criminal defense attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you face state or federal gun charges, protect yourself and your right to own a firearm by calling a local criminal defense attorney — you can find a qualified attorney through our directory.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Alaska attorneys offer free consultations.