Are Bump Stocks Legal in Maryland?

BANNED: Bump stocks are banned in Maryland.

If you live in Maryland or you’re traveling through, this is the page to read before a bump stock crosses the state line. Here’s exactly what Maryland law says, when it took effect, and what’s at stake.

What the law says

Maryland’s ban is codified at Md. Crim. Law § 4-305.1 (“rapid fire trigger activator”).

  • Controlling law: Md. Crim. Law § 4-305.1 (“rapid fire trigger activator”)
  • Enacted: 2018
  • Penalty: Misdemeanor first offense

Maryland bans rapid fire trigger activators, a definition that includes bump stocks; a first offense is a misdemeanor.

The federal picture

In Garland v. Cargill (decided June 2024), the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the ATF rule that had reclassified bump stocks as machine guns. Since that ruling, bump stocks are legal under federal law. That does not help you in Maryland: the state’s own ban operates independently of federal law and remains fully enforceable.

Frequently asked questions

Can I own a bump stock in Maryland?

No. Maryland law prohibits possession of bump-fire stocks, and violations can be charged as: misdemeanor first offense. The federal ruling in Garland v. Cargill does not override state law.

Does the 2024 Supreme Court ruling make bump stocks legal in Maryland?

No. Garland v. Cargill (June 2024) removed the federal machine-gun classification, but states are free to enact their own bans — and Maryland has one. State law controls here.

Can I travel through Maryland with a bump stock in my vehicle?

Possession within the state generally triggers the ban, including in transit. If your route crosses Maryland, the safe move is to leave the device at home. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.

Nearby states

Where that leaves you

Because of the state ban described above, bump-fire stocks cannot be sold or shipped to Maryland, and this page exists for information only.

State device laws have shifted repeatedly since 2017, in both directions. If the law in Maryland changes, our newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about it — the signup form is available on our main site.

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Informational only, not legal advice. Laws change — verify current federal, state, and local law before purchasing. Last reviewed July 2026.