Updated for 2017: Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States

by
posted on February 9, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gunguide_lede.jpg

If your business or vacation plans this year include traveling with a firearm, your pre-travel checklist should include becoming familiar with gun laws in any of the states through which you’ll be passing. Don’t let a routine traffic stop degenerate into nightmarish labyrinth through the legal system—possibly even jail time—because you inadvertently violate a gun law. Now in its 21st edition and updated with more than 100 changes for 2017, Traveler’s Guide to the Firearms Laws of the Fifty States is a quick reference guide that covers the essentials on legally transporting a firearm in a vehicle, concealed-carry reciprocity, when and where and how a gun can be carried for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and even travel to Canada or Mexico. Written and researched by J. Scott Kappas, the 2017 Traveler’s Guide also includes a handy introduction that defines many terms of importance to anyone traveling with or carrying a firearm outside of his or her home state. $14.95 plus shipping. Contact: Traveler’s Guide (859) 491-6400; gunlawguide.com.

Examples of individual state pages:

 



From coast to coast, gun laws differ greatly, from highly restrictive to not at all prohibitive. The latest Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States can help prevent you from making a life-changing mistake. 

Latest

013 Rrvstr Trio End 01
013 Rrvstr Trio End 01

What Should Ruger’s Future Revolvers Look Like?

Ruger’s revolvers would benefit from a few updates if the company ever decides to bring them back into production.

Savage Arms Expands Model 334 Line with New Chamberings & Compact Models

Initially introduced in 2023, the Savage Model 334 bolt-action lineup has been an affordable, no-frills platform for hunters and shooters, and in 2026, Savage has expanded the line with new chamberings and compact models.

Gun of the Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1894 Trapper 10 mm

One of the latest Marlin lever-action rifles on the market is the Model 1894 Trapper, and the company now offers the platform in a 10 mm Auto chambering.

Scout Rifle World Shoot Recap

There’s lot to learn about the Scout Rifle, and we tested one at the inaugural Scout Rifle World Shoot.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 6, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Six-Hour Gun: Saving a Family Heirloom

Simple math would have told anyone it wasn't worth fixing a $150 revolver. But to one family, this simple, common revolver meant everything.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.