Department Of Conservation On Handgun Definition

(Jefferson City) The Missouri Department of Conservation is considering whether to change the definition of a handgun after more and more hunters are using modified AR-style weapons to take down game during the “alternative methods” season, when rifles and shotguns are not allowed.

The new definition would limit barrel length to 16 inches, and not allow any sort of shoulder brace or foregrip to be attached to the weapon.

Any firearm longer than 26 inches would also be considered a rifle under the new definition.

Missourians are invited to contact the department to share their thoughts on the proposed change.