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Firearm law reference

Maine Firearm Laws

A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in Maine — private-sale background checks, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, and waiting periods. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.

At a glance

Universal background check on private sales
Yes
Assault-weapon restrictions
No
Large-capacity magazine limit
No
Approved-handgun roster (dealers)
No
Waiting period
About 3 days before transfer
Yes

What to watch for

Maine: advertising a private firearm sale itself triggers a background-check requirement.
Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
Maine has a waiting period (about 3 days) before a firearm can be received.
Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the Maine Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.

Frequently asked

Does Maine require a background check for private firearm sales?+

Yes. Maine requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.

Does Maine restrict "assault weapons"?+

Maine does not have a state "assault weapons" ban, though federal rules still apply.

Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in Maine?+

Maine does not impose a state large-capacity magazine limit.

Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in Maine?+

Maine has a waiting period of about 3 days before a firearm can be received.

Buying or selling in Maine?

Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.

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