Montana Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Can you legally modify a firearm to automatic fire in Montana?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only with ATF approval

4. Only for firearms manufactured before 1986

The correct answer is: No

The ability to legally modify a firearm to fire automatically in Montana—and indeed across the United States—is heavily regulated. Automatic firearms, often referred to as machine guns, are classified under federal law and are subject to strict controls. These laws effectively prohibit the modification of firearms to operate in a fully automatic mode without proper registration and authorization. In most circumstances, modifying a firearm to function as an automatic weapon would violate both state and federal laws unless you have received the necessary approvals and permits from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This includes meeting specific requirements regarding the purchase, modification, and possession of such firearms. Therefore, the answer affirming that it is not legal to modify a firearm to automatic fire in Montana aligns with the strict regulatory framework in place concerning firearms. This ensures accountability and safety in the ownership and use of firearms.