What Are the Magazine Capacity Limits in Maryland?

What This Means for You

Maryland's magazine capacity restrictions directly impact what you can legally possess and use in your builds. The state distinguishes between magazines manufactured before and after the 2013 cutoff date. You need to understand these limits before selecting magazines for any build project in Maryland.

The Detail

Maryland restricts magazine capacity to 10 rounds for most firearms, with the law taking effect in October 2013. The state prohibits the manufacture, sale, offering for sale, purchase, receipt, or transfer of detachable magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This applies to both rifle and pistol magazines.

The law includes a grandfathering provision for magazines manufactured before October 1, 2013. If you owned higher capacity magazines before this date, you can legally possess them but cannot sell or transfer them within Maryland. However, proving the manufacture date of magazines can be challenging since many don't have clear date markings.

Certain exemptions exist for law enforcement, military personnel, and licensed firearms dealers conducting lawful business. The restrictions also don't apply to .22 caliber tube-fed rifles, which can have magazines exceeding 10 rounds. Some antique firearms may also be exempt from these restrictions.

Enforcement of magazine capacity laws can be complex, and violations can result in serious criminal charges. The state considers possession of prohibited magazines a misdemeanor offense. You should verify current laws and any recent changes with Maryland's official state resources or consult with a qualified attorney familiar with Maryland firearms law.

Build Impact

When planning any build in Maryland, you're limited to 10-round magazines unless you have pre-2013 grandfathered magazines. This affects your parts selection and means you'll need to source compliant magazines or verify the manufacture date of any higher capacity magazines you already own.