State Law Guide for Stun Gun Ownership and Sales

Can You Own a Stun Gun? Find Out By State if it is Legal in your Location.

Stun guns are a very powerful and non-lethal means of self-defense which is why they are highly desireable to obtain. But stun gun laws vary by state, and some countries outlaw them altogether.

The following countries outlaw or heavily restrict stun guns:

  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • The UK
  • Canada
  • Switzerland
  • Sweden
  • Denmark
  • Norway
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Hong Kong
  • India (for Police only)

Stun guns are legal to own in all of the United States, except the following:

  1. Hawaii - Illegal to buy/sell or own a stun gun
  2. Massachusettes - Illegal to buy/sell or own a stun gun
  3. Rhode Island - Illegal to buy/sell or own a stun gun
  4. Michigan - Illegal to buy/sell or own a stun gun

The City of Chicago does not allow buying/selling or owning stun guns.

Wisconsin allows stun guns, but with more restrictions than most states. For example, you must have the same Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) license necessary for a firearm to carry a stun gun in Wisconsin unless you're transporting it in a case or are from out of state.

Though legal, you cannot order a stun gun by mail if you live in Connecticut.

Other than these places, you are free to purchase and carry a stun gun with no legal restrictions.

Note: *It used to be illegal to buy/sell or own stun guns in New York. But thanks to a new law effective Spring of 2019, you can now own a stun gub in New York.

Who Can Buy a Stun Gun?

Assuming you live where stun guns are legal, there are only a few basic restrictions to buying this self-defense tool.

  • You must be at least 18 years old
  • You cannot have a felony record
  • Stun guns are only for self-defense

If you are a minor, or the seller has reason to believe you intend to use a stun gun as an attack weapon to commit a crime, you cannot buy a stun gun.

Other than that, in most states where stun guns are legal, you don't have to buy a permit, go to any training classes, or even conceal your stun gun while you carry it.

Stun guns are a great self-defense item for women and if you have special ladies in your life (Mom, Wife , Daughter, Sister) it is a good idea to make sure they are prepared for an emergency.