Updated for 2021: Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States

by
posted on March 28, 2021
** 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. **
2021travelerguide-1.jpg
Every year, people drive to all corners of the United States and beyond, sometimes with their firearms in tow with them. Unfortunately for many responsible armed citizens, this can expose them to a complex and ever-changing environment of state gun laws, many of which vary from year to year.

Fortunately, the updated 24th edition of J. Scott Kappas’ "Traveler’s Guide to the Firearms Laws of the Fifty States" has America’s gun-carrying travelers covered for 2021. Within its 68 pages are more than 100 updates since 2020, including 50 subheads in each state’s checklist detailing ammo-carry rules and new online updates for conditional reciprocity states. This includes among other aspects:
  • Carry of firearms in a motor vehicle.
  • Concealed carry reciprocity.
  • Firearm law preemption. 
  • Concealed carry in state and national parks.
  • Concealed carry in restaurants serving alcohol.
  • Open carry without a permit.
  • Traveling with firearms on airlines, cruise ships, buses, RVs and motorcycles.
  • Firearm possession in hotels, on college campuses and school grounds.
  • State laws regulating long guns, handguns, NFA items and parts restrictions.
  • How to handle a traffic stop.
For those who also visit the nation’s northern and southern hemispheres, the "Traveler’s Guide" includes detailed information for trips to Canada and Mexico. The guide retails for $14.95 (including shipping), and can be purchased at gunlawguide.com.

Examples of individual state pages:

Latest

AK In The USA
AK In The USA

AKs In The USA: The Current State of the American AK Platform

Despite it being the primary rifle of the enemy for most of its existence, American shooters have nonetheless warmed to the AK platform, creating an unlikely love story.

Demand for Guns, Ammo & Firearm Accessories Accelerates

October gun sales increased according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) estimate, but the quarterly reports from major manufacturers reflect purchases significantly higher.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 9, 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.

Review: Canik MC9 Prime Radian

This Canik MC9 Prime uses Radian Weapons technology.

Beretta's Behemoth: An Overview of Beretta Holdings

Beretta Holding’s portfolio is so great, both in numbers and marquee value, the list speaks for itself.

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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.