Why cant us citizens have fully automatic weapons?

Answer 1

A fully automatic weapon or sub-machine gun (SMG) (Class 3 weapon) can be owned by anyone provided..

• Purchased from a A Federal Firearms License (FFL) Class 3 dealer.
• You have to live in a state where Class III weapons are legal.
• You have to be a US citizen.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Never been convicted of a Felony or Domestic Violence.
• Never been dishonorably discharged from the military.
• Never been adjudicated mentally defective.

Oh and lets not forget the $200 transfer tax.

There are more rules that apply, suffice it to say, these are the basic rules.

Civilian ownership of sub machine guns is regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives under the provisions of the National Firearms Act of 1934 as amended by Title II of the Gun Control Act of 1968.

Some states enforce their own laws regulating or forbidding civilian possession of sub machine guns. Obviously if you cant buy from a Class III dealer, it is illegal in your state.

Civilians may purchase semi-automatic versions of such firearms without requiring NFA clearance, although some states (including California and New Jersey) enforce their own restrictions on such weapons.