1. Treat every firearm as it is loaded. 2. Never point the firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. 3. Do not put your finger on the trigger until ready to shoot. 4. know what is behind you target.

In Delaware, an "assault weapon" is defined by a specific list of banned firearms as well as a "copycat" or feature-based definition that covers semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns. This ban, passed under the Delaware Lethal Firearms Safety Act of 2022 (HB 450), prohibits the manufacture, sale, and transfer of these weapons, though those acquired before June 30, 2022, are grandfathered in. Copycat weapons A semi-automatic firearm can be classified as a banned "copycat weapon" if it possesses certain features. Semi-automatic centerfire rifles are banned if they can accept a detachable magazine and have at least one of the following features: A folding or telescoping stock A pistol grip, thumbhole stock, or any other stock that allows the shooter to grip the weapon in a specific manner A forward pistol grip A flash suppressor A grenade or flare launcher A threaded barrel A barrel shroud An overall length of less than 30 inches Semi-automatic pistols are banned if they can accept a detachable magazine and have at least one of the following features: A threaded barrel A second hand grip An ability to accept the magazine at a location outside the pistol grip A barrel shroud Semi-automatic shotguns are banned if they have a folding or telescoping stock and a pistol grip, or if they have the ability to accept a detachable magazine. The ban also applies to shotguns with a revolving cylinder. Specifically named firearms The law also lists specific makes and models of firearms that are explicitly banned. These include certain rifles, shotguns, and pistols, such as: AA Arms AP-9 pistol Beretta 93R pistol Colt AR-15 and its variations Intratec TEC-9/DC-9 pistol UZI pistol and carbine This answer may include mistakes. For legal advice, consult a professional. .accordion-body

Assault weapons: Delaware has banned firearms classified as "assault weapons". High-capacity magazines: It is illegal to purchase or possess magazines capable of holding more than 17 rounds of ammunition. CDWL holders and military/law enforcement personnel are exempt from this ban.

Yes, a Concealed Deadly Weapon (CCDW) license is required to carry a concealed weapon. Delaware is a "may-issue" state, and the application process is rigorous.

Yes, you can legally open-carry a handgun in Delaware without a permit if you are at least 18 and not otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm. Non-residents can also open-carry if they comply with state and federal regulations.

Assault weapons: "Assault weapons" and "copycat" assault weapons are banned in Delaware. Magazines: Magazines with a capacity of more than 17 rounds are generally forbidden. An exception is made for concealed-carry permit holders, members of the military, and retired law enforcement.

Handguns and rifles: You must be 21 years old to purchase handguns and rifles. Shotguns: You must be 18 years old to purchase shotguns.

No, Delaware does not require registration for handguns or other firearms.

Handgun: As of late 2025, a permit is required to purchase a handgun. Long Guns(rifles and shotguns): A permit is not required to purchase a rifle or a shotgun, but a background check is still mandatory. Existing Concealed Carry Permits: A valid Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon License (CCDW) exempts a resident from the new handgun purchase permit requirement.