The short answer: under Maryland’s 2026 gun reforms, most semi‑automatic AK‑type rifles that meet the state’s “assault weapon” definition—such as the AK‑47, AK‑74, AK‑M, and any variants that feature a detachable magazine, pistol grip, or folding stock—are prohibited unless the owner obtains a Maryland‑issued “Assault Weapon Permit” (AWP) and complies with strict registration, safety‑device, and storage requirements. Only AK models that are classified as “non‑detachable‑magazine” rifles, or that are equipped with a fixed‑magazine capacity of ten rounds or fewer, remain legal without an AWP.
Maryland’s 2026 Gun Law Overhaul
The 2026 legislative package (Bill SB 1015) revised the definition of assault weapons to mirror the 2013 “Firearms Safety Act” while adding a new permit tier. An AK‑type rifle is now considered an assault weapon if it possesses any of the following features: detachable magazine, pistol grip, folding or telescoping stock, flash suppressor, or a barrel shorter than 16 in. The law also caps magazine capacity at ten rounds for all semi‑automatic rifles unless a special permit is granted. Failure to comply can result in felony charges and mandatory forfeiture.
Which AK Models Remain Legal
- Fixed‑magazine AK‑style rifles – Models that accept only a permanently attached magazine (e.g., certain AK‑12 variants with a ten‑round fixed box) are exempt from the assault‑weapon label.
- AK‑type rifles with compliant accessories – If the firearm lacks a pistol grip, folding stock, flash suppressor, and has a barrel of at least 16 in, it can be owned without an AWP.
- Registered AKs with an AWP – Owners who secure an Assault Weapon Permit may possess prohibited AK variants, provided the rifle is registered, equipped with a lock‑able trigger mechanism, and stored in an approved safe.
These categories are grounded in Maryland Code, §§ 4‑270 and 4‑272, which outline the permissible configurations after the 2026 amendments.
Compliance Steps for AK Owners
- Determine the rifle’s configuration – Review the barrel length, magazine type, and accessory list against the statutory criteria.
- Apply for an Assault Weapon Permit – Submit an application to the Maryland State Police, including a background check, safe‑storage certification, and a statement of lawful purpose.
- Register the firearm – All AKs classified as assault weapons must be entered into the Maryland Firearms Registration System within 30 days of acquisition.
- Install mandated safety devices – A trigger lock or integrated safety mechanism is required for all registered AKs.
- Maintain secure storage – The rifle must be kept in a UL‑rated gun safe or locked cabinet when not in use, inspected annually by a certified inspector.
Non‑compliance triggers a mandatory 5‑year prohibition from firearm possession and potential imprisonment of up to 10 years.
FAQ 1: Can I legally own a standard AK‑47 without a permit?
No. A standard AK‑47 with a detachable magazine, pistol grip, and a barrel shorter than 16 in is deemed an assault weapon under the 2026 statutes and requires an Assault Weapon Permit plus registration.
FAQ 2: Are “thumb‑hole” stocks allowed on AKs?
A thumb‑hole stock is considered a pistol grip under Maryland law, so any AK equipped with such a stock falls under the assault‑weapon definition and must be registered and permitted.
FAQ 3: What happens if I convert a legal fixed‑magazine AK to a detachable‑magazine one?
Converting a legal fixed‑magazine AK to accept detachable magazines creates a prohibited configuration. The firearm must be surrendered, and the owner faces felony charges for illegal modification.
FAQ 4: Do “low‑profile” AK parts (e.g., collapsible front sights) affect legality?
Low‑profile sights alone do not trigger the assault‑weapon classification. Legality hinges on the presence of the specific features listed in § 4‑272; therefore, such parts are permissible if no other prohibited features exist.
FAQ 5: Is a Maryland resident allowed to transport an AWP‑registered AK across state lines?
Transport is permitted only for a lawful purpose such as moving residence, provided the rifle remains unloaded, locked in a case, and the owner carries proof of the Assault Weapon Permit and registration. Interstate transport for hunting or sport shooting is prohibited unless the destination state also authorizes the weapon.