Is Arizona a Constitutional Carry State?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, Arizona is a constitutional carry state. Adults 21 and older can carry concealed firearms without a permit, and open carry is generally legal for those 18 and older.
What This Means for You
Arizona's constitutional carry laws mean you can build and carry firearms without navigating complex permit requirements. However, you still need to understand where carry is prohibited and ensure your builds comply with federal regulations. The state's permissive carry laws don't override NFA requirements or federal restrictions.
The Detail
Arizona enacted constitutional carry legislation that allows adults 21 and older to carry concealed firearms without obtaining a concealed weapons permit. Open carry is generally permitted for those 18 and older, making Arizona one of the more permissive states for firearms carry. This applies to most areas of the state, though certain locations like federal buildings, schools, and some private properties maintain restrictions.
While you don't need a state permit to carry, Arizona still issues concealed carry permits for those who want them. These permits provide benefits like reciprocity with other states and exemptions from background checks when purchasing firearms from dealers. The permit process involves training requirements and background checks, but it's optional for in-state carry.
Constitutional carry doesn't eliminate all regulations. Federal laws still apply fully, including NFA requirements for short-barreled rifles, suppressors, and other regulated items. Local jurisdictions can't override state preemption laws that favor gun rights, but federal property and tribal lands may have different rules.
Age restrictions still matter for your builds. While 18-year-olds can open carry, concealed carry without a permit requires being 21. This mirrors federal age requirements for handgun purchases from dealers versus private sales and long gun purchases.
Build Impact
Constitutional carry means you can build and immediately carry your firearms without waiting for permit approval processes. However, you still need to ensure any NFA items go through proper federal channels, and consider getting an Arizona permit if you plan to travel to other states with your builds.