Worst States to be a Gun Owner (2023 Updated)

The sheer volume of firearms in the United States is a point of contention for almost every American. Some believe we have too few, while others believe we have too many. Nonetheless, firearms are a large part of American culture. We value our liberties, the natural right to self-defense, the inherent check on state power an armed populace offers, and the heritage which we pass down from generation to generation.

Whether an individual defines freedom as a life without firearms or a life without government interference, we can all agree that some states do not support gun ownership. Whether it’s a regionally-based cultural divide, or a collective ideology of utopian societies, state legislators represent the voice of their constituents. In this case, some promote individual freedom and personal defense, while others believe the opposite.

We’ve investigated each state’s sales tax, current laws, upcoming laws, concealed carry guidelines, and self-defense statutes to understand better your state’s position on the Personal Liberty and Self-Defense debate.

What Did We Measure?

Before we dive in, let’s take a moment to analyze what factors make a state The Worst for Gun Ownership. If we consider only purchasing requirements, we neglect carrying requirements and use of force thresholds. So, we came up with a list based on the following factors:

Current Gun Laws
Current Purchase Laws
Current CCW Guidelines
Reciprocity between other states
Sales Tax
Current Governor’s voting history
Stand Your Ground Laws

Jump to a state: AL | AK | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY

Note: It’s essential to look at each state’s current laws and Federal laws. For example, most states define Stand Your Ground and Duty to Retreat differently. It’s a good idea to explore the links below to better understand your State’s laws.

#26 North Carolina

You can open carry in many places in North Carolina as long as you’re a resident and lawfully permitted to possess a firearm. However, you must obtain a concealed firearm permit, and not every city or county allows open carry without one. A North Carolina CHP (Concealed Handgun Permit) allows you to carry in 37 states, while travelers^[1] from 48 states can conceal carry with their permits.

Unfortunately, you won’t get a tax exemption on any firearms, ammunition, or accessories. But if you ever find yourself in a life-threatening situation, the state offers protection against civil and criminal liability^[2].

The state legislature recently vetoed a bill for those who prefer to purchase firearms without additional steps, and residents no longer need permits to purchase firearms. However, Governor Roy Cooper did support the bill, so North Carolina’s position on this list is a toss-up.

#27 South Carolina

South Carolina falls pretty low on this list considering its little Fort Sumpter incident some years ago. The state does take a shall-issue stance on concealed weapons permits, but it also requires those permits for law-abiding citizens to carry firearms.

However, residents also won’t have to register their firearms or pass redundant background checks (considering federal law mandates stringent background checks already). Another redeeming quality for the state is that it occasionally offers tax holidays^[3] for firearms and ammunition purchases.

South Carolina does afford some protection^[4] to those acting in self-defense. While the state has stand-your-ground laws and a castle doctrine, it’s a bit stricter on who is protected and under which circumstances. Of course, the state does place the burden of proof on the prosecution, but the laws are a bit more flimsy than in twenty-five other states.

The state’s Governor, Henry McMaster, has voiced his support^[5] for the 2nd Amendment over the years. In addition to those statements, he’s also pushing for harsher punishments^[6] for those who possess firearms illegally.

#28 Ohio

At the time of writing, Ohio allows anyone aged 21 and older who isn’t already from possessing a firearm to carry without a permit. Although, the state does issue CHLs (Concealed Handgun licenses^[7]). These licenses allow gun owners to carry in 38 other states, and Ohio accepts travelers’ permits from 49 states.

Firearms purchasers will still pay the standard sales tax rates and must pass a federal background check when purchasing a firearm from an FFL dealer. Those who sell guns regularly in Ohio (and everywhere else in the U.S.) must obtain an FFL or face federal charges.

Those who find themselves in a life-threatening situation do have protections under Ohio law. For example, the prosecutor carries the burden of proof, and the state has both Castle Doctrine and stand-your-ground exceptions^[8] with no duty to retreat.

Perhaps you’re surprised to see Ohio on this list. Currently, Governor Mike DeWine^[9] is asking the Ohio state legislature to enact more gun control measures (including tightening down on background checks and ERPOs) to keep gun owners from exercising their 2A rights.

#29 Nevada

Nevada is an open-carry state where anyone over the age of 18 can carry a firearm. Those who like to travel or prefer to conceal carry must apply for a CCW (the Nevada CCW does have many restrictions^[10]). However, once obtained, you can carry a firearm in 33 states, and travelers coming from 27 states will find that Nevada honors their CCWs.

Private firearm sales in Nevada are still subject to background checks^[11], but you don’t have to register your guns. The state doesn’t have safe storage laws, but it also doesn’t give tax exemptions for firearms, ammunition, or accessories.

If ever you’re in a situation where you must defend your life, Nevada’s laws may protect^[12] you from criminal prosecution. You have a right to stand your ground and no duty to retreat. Moreover, the state has a castle doctrine that protects reasonable acts of self-defense in the home.

Governor Steve Sisolak recently signed Red Flag legislation^[13] and supports more restrictions on gun owners in the state. While Nevada isn’t anywhere near the worst state for gun owners at the time of writing, it may head further down our list in coming years.

#30 Virginia

Virginia is another open-carry state with many restrictions. For example, there’s a long list of places^[14] you can’t legally carry a firearm, and you’ll need the state’s CHP to conceal a firearm. Furthermore, there are some districts where gun owners can’t even open-carry, so be sure to look into local ordinances. If you do obtain a CHP, you can conceal carry and travel to 35 states (Virginia honors permits from 48 states).

Virginia doesn’t require firearm registrations or permits to purchase firearms. But even private sellers must seek out an FFL dealer to run a universal background check^[15] per new laws. Gun owners in the state won’t see any firearm-related tax exemptions either. The state also has some statutes supporting a castle doctrine with no duty to retreat^[16] (if the situation is in your own home and you aren’t the aggressor). But the laws are quite flimsy with respect to personal defense scenarios.

Virginia’s new governor, Glenn Youngkin, is a stark contrast to the state’s former governor. Whereas the state was on the brink of Red Flag Laws, Youngkin opposes gun control measures^[17] and tends to lean toward mental-health-related solutions.

#31 Vermont

While it’s true that anyone legally permitted to carry a firearm can do so in Vermont without a permit, the state made this list because some of its laws make it more difficult for gun buyers to obtain a firearm. For example, it’s illegal to sell a firearm in Vermont without an FFL^[18]. Also, anyone under twenty-one is prohibited from purchasing firearms. Vermont also limits magazine capacity and firearm accessories like bump stocks.

Vermont also has more restrictive background checks than many other states. For example, unless gifting a firearm to an immediate family member (someone who lives in your home or a parent/sibling), background checks are required.

However, Vermont is also a No-Issue permit state, where they don’t even offer enhanced permits. Depending on how you look at it, this can be a good or bad thing. For example, if you travel, you can only open or conceal carry in other states that do not require a permit (check those states before traveling because open carry and concealed carry are different).

Furthermore, Vermont residents do have some protections^[19] if they ever need to use lethal force in self-defense situations, but the state doesn’t have any exemptions^[20] for firearms or accessories. Lastly, Vermont Governor Phil Scott has a history of signing gun control measures^[21], so we can be pretty certain the state will remain on this list for some time.

#32 Delaware

Despite Delaware’s Constitution, which states that individuals have the right to bear homes for the defense of their homes, family, and state, the current legislators are working diligently to ban^[22] “Assault Weapons” and certain magazines.

The state legislature is also considering a bill to implement permit requirements^[23] for all firearms purchases. However, some residents can open carry firearms (not concealed carry) without a permit. The state also doesn’t have any registration requirements, but you can only purchase firearms from an FFL dealer. Furthermore, Delaware doesn’t have a state sales tax, so firearms are exempt from taxes.

Delaware does not have a stand-your-ground statute (whereas one does have a duty to retreat, but residents do have some protection in and over their homes with the state’s Castle Doctrine^[24]. Lastly, Governor John Carney has a long history of implementing gun control measures^[25].

#33 Oregon

Despite Oregon’s open-carry stance on firearms (where anyone who can legally have a firearm can openly carry it), the state has plenty of restrictions against gun ownership to bring it down a few spots. For example, Oregon’s CHL (Concealed Handgun License) is still required for anyone who wants to conceal carry^[26]. But you must complete a training course and be 21 years of age. Assuming you obtain a CHL, you can then travel to 25 other states. But if you have a pro-second Amendment family coming from out of state, it’s important to note that Oregon does not honor any other state’s permits.

Even private sales must go through an FFL dealer for federal background checks. The state is also having a little battle^[27] over permit-to-purchase requirements and extended waiting periods for background checks. However, the state does have one redeeming quality for gun owners; there’s no sales tax. So, if you can exercise your 2nd Amendment rights (in the face of all the restrictions), you won’t have to pay taxes on them.

Those in Oregon who must protect themselves leave their freedom to prior court rulings and statutes^[28] as opposed to the legal code. To further solidify this state’s position on our Worst States for Gun Owners list, Governor Tina Kotek is working with the state’s Attorney General to push lawmakers to pass more gun control legislation.

#34 Wisconsin

Wisconsin is an open carry state with a shall-issue carry permit status. While you can visibly carry a firearm (assuming you’re lawfully permitted to possess one), it must be visible unless you have a permit. However, rules also vary depending on local ordinances, so research those before carrying a firearm openly. Those who want to conceal carry^[29] (including carrying in vehicles) must take an 8-hour instructor-led course and go through the Wisconsin Department of Justice (you’ll receive approval or denial in 21 days). If you decide to get a Wisconsin CCW, you can carry in 33 states. Travelers from 45 other states can carry in Wisconsin with their state’s CCW.

Wisconsin does not require firearm registration, and private sales are still legal without a background check (as of early 2023). However, residents will still need to pay sales tax^[30] on their firearms, like any other item.

While you do have some protections against prosecution when you’re acting in self-defense, Wisconsin doesn’t allow force to protect property, but you are protected under^[31] a Castle Doctrine with no duty to retreat. Governor Tony Evers is widely open to taking gun control measures, but the State legislature doesn’t seem to hold the same opinions, so it’s challenging to predict where Wisconsin will land on our list in the future.

#35 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is another state where anyone can legally open carry a firearm in public as long as they’re lawfully allowed to possess one. However, there are a lot of restrictions for gun owners^[32]. First, you can apply for a concealed weapons permit which makes it legal for you to conceal carry in Pennsylvania and 32 other states.

Next, you can’t legally purchase a firearm from an individual without getting an FFL dealer involved, and the state police keep a record of all firearms bought and sold. Furthermore, not only will you pay standard sales tax on your gun, but there’s also an additional surcharge.

Pennsylvania gun owners have castle doctrine and stand-your-ground^[33] protections with no duty to retreat. Lastly, Governor Josh Shapiro is an outspoken proponent^[34] of more gun control legislation.

#36 New Mexico

New Mexico is also an open-carry state, but you can’t conceal a weapon without a carry permit. Furthermore, you can only carry one concealed firearm^[35] at a time in the state (so no console firearm, sidearm firearm, or diaper bag firearm simultaneously). Unfortunately, it can take 90 days for the state to perform your background check and another 30 days to approve or deny your permit. When you finally get your permit, you can travel to 36 other states (NM honors 23 other states’ permits).

While there are no registration requirements or permit-to-purchase statutes, it is illegal to purchase firearms from private sellers (so the federal background checks apply to all sales). New Mexico gun owners won’t see any tax exemptions for exercising their second amendment rights, either (including for safety equipment).

New Mexico doesn’t offer the same castle doctrine protections as the other states on this list thus far. For example, you have a right to protect your life but should try all other de-escalation methods first (calling the police, leaving, etc.). Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham recently signed into legislation a bill^[36] that puts the responsibility on gun owners to keep firearms stored and secure. Under this new law, if a minor gains access to a firearm and it results in injury, the gun owner is criminally liable.

#37 Nebraska

Like most other states, Nebraska is an open-carry state (with some exceptions in local jurisdictions). However, only those with a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) may conceal carry their firearms. What’s more, you can’t purchase a firearm under any circumstances without a CHP. But if you enjoy traveling, you can legally conceal carry in 33 other states (Nebraska honors permits from 35 other states). Lastly, aside from a background check, you must also complete a certified firearms training course^[37] to receive your permit and purchase firearms.

Aside from purchasing hurdles, you won’t find any 2A tax breaks^[38] in Nebraska either. All firearms, ammunition, and safety devices are subject to standard tax rates. Nebraskans can find protections under the state’s castle doctrine^[39], but you do have a duty to retreat if you’re the aggressor. You may also find yourself free from prosecution if you’re in your place of work or defending the life of another person.

Although the state isn’t great for gun ownership at the time of writing, Governor Jim Pillen very recently signed a bill to allow constitutional carry^[40] in the state (you could possibly conceal a firearm without a permit). It seems very likely that Nebraska will move further up in this list very soon.

#38 Colorado

Those with the legal ability to possess a firearm in Colorado can open-carry without a permit. However, a CHP (Concealed Handgun Permit^[41]) is required for concealed carry and to exercise several other firearm-related rights. If you choose to go through the lengthy process of getting your CHP, you can carry your firearm to 33 states, while Colorado accepts visitors’ permits from 33 other states.

You can’t just purchase a firearm in Colorado. You must take all purchases (even the private ones) to an FFL, who would then run background checks with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation^[42] (and the federal government). The state also has safe storage laws but offers no^[43] tax exemptions for the equipment.

Colorado’s self-defense laws are a bit of a redeeming quality for gun owners in the state. While you won’t have stand-your-ground protections, there are statutes that protect^[44] those acting in self-defense from criminal and civil liability.

Colorado is a battlefield for pro-2A and pro-gun control advocates. Governor Jared Polis supports more gun control, while 2A advocates are launching lawsuits as fast as the governor passes bills. A more recent example of the turmoil for gun owners in Colorado is the introduction of a bill that bans “assault” rifles^[45]. We’re anxious to see where Colorado will land when all the dust settles.

#39 Minnesota

Only Minnesota residents with a PCP (Permit to Carry a Pistol) permit can legally carry a firearm in Minnesota. With a PCP, you can legally carry your firearm in 30 other states, but Minnesota only honors gun permits from 15 others.

Gun owners in Minnesota are free to purchase firearms from private sellers, but the seller commits a misdemeanor for selling to unknown individuals without proper identification^[46]. Naturally, you must comply with federal background checks when purchasing firearms from an FFL dealer. You won’t have to register your firearms or go through additional background checks. Furthermore, the state’s sales tax applies^[47] to all firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment.

Residents of Minnesota do have some legal protections pertaining to self-defense. But you do have a duty to retreat^[48]. Despite existing laws, Minnesota’s State Legislature and Governor Tim Walz continue to push for more gun control measures^[49] like private sales background checks and red flag laws.

#40 Washington

While Washington is an open carry state (those legally allowed to carry a firearm can but with restrictions), it isn’t a gun owner-friendly state. Washington has laws against private firearm sales, all firearm sales are recorded by an FFL dealer, and the state can take up to 10 days to run a firearm background check.

You can get a permit to carry a firearm^[50] in Washington, which lets you carry concealed firearms and carry to 28 states (WA honors nine states). The state also tax exempts the sale^[51] of firearm-related safety equipment like gun safes and lock boxes.

More recently, Washington State legislators signed several bills^[52] into law that restrict gun owners. The state now bans “assault” weapons, and soon there will be more training requirements and a 10-day waiting period for firearms purchases.

#41 Hawaii

Only those with a carry permit may possess a firearm in Hawaii. However, the latest Supreme Court ruling, NYSRPA vs. Bruen, means the state is now issuing concealed carry permits^[53] to more people with fewer restrictions. An HI carry permit lets you carry to 26 other states, but visitors’ permits aren’t accepted. There are exceptions for travelers who meet specific criteria, like hunter’s safety courses.

You must obtain a permit to purchase a firearm^[54], and even those bringing firearms to the state must register their guns within five days. Furthermore, you won’t get any^[55] firearms or safety equipment tax breaks.

Residents of Hawaii have some Use of Force protection^[56] in the courts, but you have a duty to retreat and only use the force necessary to defuse a situation. Hawaii’s Governor David Ige is a gun control proponent with a long anti-NRA rhetoric history.

#42 Michigan

At the time of writing, Michiganders can open carry firearms without a permit (if eligible to possess one). Those who wish to conceal carry must obtain a CPL^[57], but there are still restrictions. For example, you can keep your firearm on school property, but it must be visible. Michigan has reciprocity agreements with 39 other states and honors permits from 48 states.

You also must have a permit to purchase a handgun if you are over 21 years old and purchase your firearms through an FFL dealer, which also requires record keeping of those purchases. But if you’re 18, you can purchase long guns from private sellers with no permit to purchase.

The state does offer tax exemptions for firearm safety devices^[58]. But it also has gun safety requirements. If you ever find yourself in a life-or-death situation, Michigan has stand-your-ground protections with no duty to retreat^[59].

Michigan’s latest gun laws have made national news of late and for many good reasons. With Governor Gretchen Wilson at the helm, Michigan gun owners^[60] must soon complete a background check for every firearm purchase (including private sales), secure firearms in compliance with the state government’s standards, and hand over a bit more 2A freedom with Red Flag Laws.

#43 Rhode Island

You cannot carry a firearm without a permit in Rhode Island, but you also can’t purchase a firearm without a permit or Blue Card. Residents can’t obtain a firearms^[61] permit without providing proof of need (the latest Supreme Court case^[62] does not apply because Rhode Islanders can apply for their permit locally or with the Attorney General’s office), and there’s a 7-day waiting period for firearms purchases.

Residents must be 21 years old to purchase firearms, and “large capacity^[63]” feeding devices are illegal. But the state also does have gun registration requirements^[64]. If you ever find yourself needing to use your firearm, Rhode Island does have castle doctrine protections^[65] with no duty to retreat.

Governor Dan McKee recently made statements^[66] that an “assault” weapons ban is on the horizon in Rhode Island. So, at the time of writing, we don’t see this state making progress toward supporting gun ownership.

#44 Massachusetts

Thanks to the Supreme Court ruling in NYSRPA vs. Bruen, Massachusetts residents can now apply for an LTC^[67] (License to Carry), but you can’t carry a firearm without one. Another hurdle for gun owners in Massachusetts is that you must have a Firearm Identification Card or LTC to purchase a gun in the state. After purchasing a gun, you have 7-days to register it^[68] with the state.

While you may get some tax breaks^[69] for gun safes and trigger locks, which is fortunate because gun owners have a legal duty to secure firearms^[70] per state-mandated guidelines, if you ever find yourself in a self-defense situation, you do have a duty to retreat^[71] and take measures to prevent force.

The state’s Governor, Maura Healey, is an active proponent^[72] of more gun control restrictions (despite the state’s constitution). We’re certain Massachusetts will remain on this list for some time.

#45 Maryland

Maryland is another state on our list affected by the recent Supreme Court decision NYSRPA vs. Bruen. This means gun owners can now apply for concealed weapons permits. However, you must complete a 16-hour training course before you can apply for the state’s WCHP. Maryland honors gun permits from zero other states, but you can travel to 26 states with yours.

Potential gun owners must obtain a permit to purchase a firearm, register their guns, and complete a background check for each firearm purchase. On the bright side, you can get a $500 tax exemption^[73] on eligible gun safety equipment. Of course, there are some rules^[74] about what you can have, where you can carry and when. For example, the state bans “assault” weapons. But the AR-10 is perfectly fine.

The state’s Governor, Wes Moore, is vehemently opposed^[75] to the Supreme Court ruling upholding a citizen’s right to carry firearms and, therefore, is looking to State Legislators to enact more gun control.

#46 Connecticut

Residents of Connecticut must obtain the state’s CTPP (Connecticut State Pistol Permit) to carry a firearm. But the issuing jurisdiction has discretion over approvals. If you do manage to obtain the state’s permission to carry a firearm, you’ll need to pass a firearm safety course with five live fire sessions, and then you can conceal carry or travel to 27 states.

If you manage to purchase a firearm in Connecticut, you’ll be pleased to know that the state offers sales tax exemptions^[76] for safety equipment. Those who must protect their lives, home, office, or property will find that the burden of proof^[77] is on the defendant (the person who uses force in self-defense). Citizens also have a duty to retreat in Connecticut.

Governor Ned Lamont continues to push for more gun control legislation^[78], including limiting the number of firearm purchases per individual, per month, to only one.

#47 New Jersey

New Jersey employs a State Police Firearms Department, which may tell you everything you need to know about the small state’s stance on gun ownership. Residents can’t carry a firearm without a permit. You must first apply at your local police department, then proceed to higher courts to get approval. If you do manage to get a PCH (Permit to Carry a Handgun), you can conceal carry and legally carry your firearm in 26 other states. Meanwhile, New Jersey doesn’t honor any other state’s firearms permits.

Gun owners must obtain a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (PFIC) before buying guns from an FFL dealer or private seller. If that isn’t harsh enough, you’ll also need the PFIC to purchase handgun ammo.

All of the hurdles aside, residents do have castle doctrine protections^[79] under NJ state law. But of course, Governor Phil Murphy is working diligently to impose further limitations^[80] on citizens’ rights to keep and bear arms.

#48 Illinois

Illinois allows those over 21 to apply for a CCL (Concealed Carry License) with the State Police; this permit allows residents to conceal carry but not openly carry. But the police reserve the right to deny anyone a license. You must complete a 16-hour firearms training course before applying, and the state offers non-resident permits for individuals from six states (but honors no out-of-state permits).

Purchasers must obtain a FOID card^[81] from the state police before attempting to buy guns from an FFL dealer or private seller. However, there’s no firearm registration in the state. You won’t get any tax breaks^[82] for firearm safety equipment, firearms, or ammunition. Illinois law does not outline whether a civilian has a duty to retreat^[83]; however, the state’s Supreme Court has upheld that there is no duty to retreat from a threatening individual.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Legislature recently banned “assault” weapons^[84] and “high-capacity” magazines. Illinois will remain on the Worst States for Gun Owners list for the foreseeable future.

#49 New York

New York is, by far, one of the strictest states in the U.S. You cannot legally carry a loaded firearm outside of your home without an NYPL. You must register all firearms, undergo extensive background checks, and have a permit-to-purchase.

Despite their CCW status, visitors from other states cannot carry in New York. New York also restricts^[85] magazines, accessories, and even firearms. If you do have a firearm in the state, you must keep it secure^[86] and away from others at all times. You will also pay the standard sales tax for your firearms in New York State. Furthermore, a few years ago, the state tried to implement additional fees for firearms purchases, but the bill never left the committee.

While you may need to defend your life or property in New York, you do have a duty to retreat^[87] (unless you’re in your home). But if a reasonable person agrees that wasn’t an option, you’re protected from prosecution.

New York gun owners do have some relief at the moment, as the Supreme Court^[88] just ruled that concealed permits must be offered at the local level. However, Governor Kathy Hochul^[89] is a staunch gun control supporter and will continue to work toward more restrictive measures.

#50 California

Choosing the number one, worst state for gun owners wasn’t an easy task. The bottom five states have many laws that prevent gun owners from purchasing and carrying firearms. But California beats the others out for a few reasons.

Naturally, you can’t open carry without a permit. But now you can at least reasonably obtain one, thanks to the Supreme Court. Californians who already own “assault” weapons or “high-capacity” magazines must register them with the state’s DOJ Firearms Bureau^[90].

Residents can only purchase one firearm every 30 days, and there is a waiting period (although exceptions do apply^[91]). However, the state does have a few redeeming qualities as it pertains to gun ownership. Surprisingly, California is a stand-your-ground state^[92] which means you have no duty to retreat from a life-threatening situation.

The Golden State seems to be paving the way for gun control for many other states. Therefore, it lands in the number one spot. With Governor Gavin Newsome leading the way, we’re certain California will remain one of the worst states for gun owners.

2A. All Day?

As mentioned above, it’s crucial to consider your state’s laws and county ordinances before carrying a firearm. Some states have pro-Second Amendment governors, while others are a brewing cauldron of rights versus safety. Some states restrict legal protections for those in self-defense scenarios, and others promote them. No matter your state, if it’s on this list, it isn’t as conducive to respecting your Second Amendment rights as many others.

Reproduced with permission. Original here. Thanks to ammo.com.