The short answer is yes – the AR‑10 is legal to own and to fire in Washington State under the 2026 gun reforms, provided the rifle meets the newly defined “semiautomatic rifle” standards and the owner follows the state’s registration, safe‑storage, and background‑check requirements. Washington’s 2026 statutes tighten definitions and add a universal background check for all purchases, but they do not outright ban the AR‑10 platform.
Washington’s 2026 Gun Laws Overview
Washington enacted a comprehensive firearms package in early 2026 that updated the definition of “semiautomatic rifle” to include any firearm that fires a single round per trigger pull, uses a detachable magazine, and has a barrel length of at least 16 inches (RCW 9.41.030). The law creates a mandatory registration process for rifles that exceed a “large capacity” threshold of 10 rounds, which applies to most AR‑10 magazines. It also instituted a safe‑storage requirement for all firearms in households with minors, and extended the universal background‑check rule to private sales, pawn transactions, and online transfers (W.S.L. 2026‑12).
How the AR‑10 Fits the New Definition
The AR‑10 is a semiautomatic rifle chambered in .308 Winchester or 7.62×51 mm NATO. It uses detachable box magazines, typically holding 10–20 rounds, and its standard barrel length exceeds 16 inches. Because it meets the functional criteria, the AR‑10 is classified as a “semiautomatic rifle” and is subject to the registration requirement only if the owner equips it with a magazine larger than 10 rounds. A standard 10‑round magazine is exempt from the large‑capacity prohibition (RCW 9.41.210).
Compliance Steps for AR‑10 Owners
- Background Check – Complete a state‑wide background check on any transfer, even between private parties.
- Registration – If the rifle is equipped with a magazine larger than 10 rounds, submit a registration form to the Washington State Department of Licensing within 30 days of acquisition.
- Safe‑Storage – Store the firearm in a locked container or use a trigger lock when not in use, especially if minors reside in the home.
- Marking – The state requires a permanent, legible serial number on the firearm; manufacturers already comply, but owners must ensure the number is visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 15‑round magazine for an AR‑10 legal in Washington?
Yes, if the rifle is registered as a large‑capacity semiautomatic rifle. The registration must be filed within 30 days of acquiring the magazine, and the owner must keep the registration on file for future inspections.
Can I purchase an AR‑10 online without a dealer license?
No. The 2026 laws require a background check and a dealer‑recorded transaction for all online sales, regardless of whether the seller is a licensed dealer or a private individual.
Are there any age restrictions for owning an AR‑10?
Washington law sets the minimum age at 21 for purchasing any semiautomatic rifle, including the AR‑10. Persons 18‑20 may possess the rifle only if it was lawfully transferred by a parent or guardian and is used under direct supervision.
Does the law affect AR‑10s that are built from parts at home?
A rifle assembled from parts is still subject to the same classification rules. The builder must treat the final product as a semiautomatic rifle, complete a background check on the purchase of the core components, and register the firearm if a large‑capacity magazine is installed.
What penalties apply for non‑compliance?
Violations can result in civil penalties of up to $5,000 per offense, and criminal charges ranging from a misdemeanor for failure to register to a felony for unlawful possession of a large‑capacity rifle without registration (RCW 9.41.250).