Binary triggers, which fire one round on trigger pull and a second on release, are not legal for civilian gun owners in Washington State as of 2026. State law classifies any device that enables a firearm to discharge more than one round per single trigger action as a prohibited weapon, and the binary trigger falls squarely within that definition. Possession can result in felony charges, even if the device is not currently installed. Washington’s strict “dangerous weapon” statute leaves little room for interpretation, and recent case law has upheld convictions involving binary triggers. Consequently, Washington gun owners must avoid purchasing, installing, or using binary triggers to stay compliant with state law.
Current Legal Status
Washington’s Revised Code (RCW 9.41.030) defines a “dangerous weapon” to include any firearm “capable of firing more than one round with a single pull of the trigger.” The binary trigger’s two‑round discharge cycle matches this description, making it an illegal modification. The Attorney General’s 2022 opinion letter confirmed that binary triggers are considered “semi‑automatic conversion devices” and therefore prohibited. Enforcement agencies routinely treat the mere possession of a binary trigger as a felony under RCW 9.41.030(2)(a).
Potential Legislative Changes Through 2026
As of early 2026, no bill specifically targeting binary triggers has passed the Washington Legislature. Several firearms‑safety measures have been debated, but all focus on background checks, safe‑storage, and assault‑weapon bans rather than binary triggers. Stakeholder groups—gun rights organizations and public‑safety advocates—have filed testimony, yet no consensus has emerged to alter the existing prohibition. Gun owners should monitor the session calendar, but the legal landscape appears stable.
Enforcement Practices
Local law‑enforcement agencies treat binary triggers as contraband. Routine traffic stops, firearms‑dealer inspections, and undercover operations have resulted in seizures and prosecutions. The Washington State Patrol’s 2024 “Firearm Enforcement Report” recorded 87 arrests involving binary triggers, with an average sentence of 2‑5 years imprisonment for first‑time offenders. Courts consistently apply the felony statute, citing the device’s inherent ability to fire multiple rounds per trigger action.
Penalties for Possession
Possessing a binary trigger without a lawful exemption constitutes a felony under RCW 9.41.030(2)(a). Penalties include:
- Up to 5 years imprisonment
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Mandatory loss of firearm privileges for at least 5 years
If the device is used in the commission of another crime, sentencing enhancements may apply, potentially increasing imprisonment to 10 years.
What Gun Owners Can Do
- Avoid purchase – Do not buy binary triggers, even for collection or future use.
- Remove existing devices – If you already own a binary trigger, safely dismantle it and surrender it to law‑enforcement.
- Stay informed – Track legislative updates via the Washington State Legislature’s website and subscribe to the Attorney General’s bulletins.
- Consult legal counsel – If you face charges, retain an attorney experienced in Washington firearms law to navigate possible defenses or plea negotiations.
FAQ
Is a binary trigger considered a fully automatic weapon in Washington?
No. Washington law does not use the term “fully automatic” for binary triggers, but it treats any device that fires more than one round per trigger pull as a prohibited weapon, which includes binary triggers.
Can I possess a binary trigger if I have a concealed pistol license?
A concealed pistol license does not override the statutory ban. Possession remains a felony regardless of licensing status.
Are there any exemptions for law‑enforcement or military personnel?
Yes. Law‑enforcement agencies and the military may use binary triggers under specific departmental policies, but civilian possession is still prohibited.
What if the binary trigger is installed but never used?
Possession alone is illegal. The law does not require the device to be fired; merely having it constitutes a felony.
Will future legislation likely legalize binary triggers?
Current legislative trends focus on expanding restrictions, not easing them. While future bills could change the status, no credible proposals have emerged to legalize binary triggers through 2026.