Ace Maryland Gun Laws & Firearms Safety 2026 – Lock, Load and Learn!

A 'regulated firearm' in Maryland encompasses specific criteria that primarily focus on the type and specifications of firearms, with an emphasis on handguns and certain types of rifles and shotguns.

Handguns are classified as regulated firearms because they pose a higher risk of being used in crimes due to their portability and concealability. Therefore, all handguns fall under the regulated firearm category in Maryland.

Additionally, rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches and shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches are also considered regulated firearms. This designation is due to the potential for such firearms to be modified into more easily concealable or dangerous weapons, leading to stricter regulations around their ownership and sale.

Hence, the answer encompasses both handguns and specific rifles, making the selection that includes both categories correct. This reflects the state's intent to maintain a balance between citizens' rights to own firearms and ensuring public safety.