Are FRT Triggers Legal in New Jersey?

FRT triggers, or Forced Reset Triggers, are firearm components designed to increase the rate of fire. In New Jersey, their legality is complex and depends on specific state laws regulating firearm modifications. Understanding these rules is crucial for residents and visitors alike to avoid legal trouble.

State law governs firearm accessories like FRT triggers, even though federal regulations also exist. New Jersey’s strict approach to gun control means that legality often hinges on how the device functions and is classified under state statutes.

Is It Legal to Own or Use FRT Triggers in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, owning or using FRT triggers is generally illegal due to their classification as devices that increase the rate of fire beyond semi-automatic capabilities.

This prohibition applies to all residents and visitors within the state, including sellers and manufacturers who distribute these triggers.

• FRT triggers are considered machine gun components under New Jersey law, making possession unlawful without proper licensing.

• Using an FRT trigger on a firearm can lead to criminal charges, regardless of intent or knowledge of the law.

• Manufacturing or selling FRT triggers in New Jersey is prohibited and subject to enforcement actions.

• Even temporary possession during transport or testing is restricted under state regulations.

• Law enforcement actively monitors and prosecutes violations involving these triggers to prevent illegal firearm modifications.

Therefore, owning or using FRT triggers in New Jersey is not legally permitted under typical circumstances.

What Does New Jersey State Law Say About FRT Triggers?

New Jersey law treats FRT triggers as prohibited firearm modifications that effectively convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic or rapid-fire firearms.

The state’s firearm statutes explicitly ban devices that increase firing speed, aligning with its broader gun control policies.

• The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice classifies devices like FRT triggers as machine gun parts, prohibiting their possession without a special permit.

• Possession of these triggers is considered a felony offense, reflecting the state’s strict stance on firearm modifications.

• State law prohibits the sale, transfer, or manufacture of FRT triggers within New Jersey’s jurisdiction.

• Enforcement includes confiscation of firearms equipped with these devices and potential criminal prosecution.

• Local law enforcement agencies often collaborate with federal authorities to ensure compliance with these restrictions.

New Jersey’s legal framework leaves little room for lawful possession or use of FRT triggers.

Does Federal Law Affect the Legality of FRT Triggers in New Jersey?

Federal law also regulates firearm components like FRT triggers, but New Jersey’s laws impose stricter controls that supersede federal allowances.

The National Firearms Act (NFA) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) regulations classify devices that increase firing rates as machine guns, subject to federal restrictions.

• Under federal law, FRT triggers may be classified as machine gun parts, requiring registration and tax stamps for legal possession.

• New Jersey’s laws do not allow exceptions for federally registered devices, maintaining a stricter ban.

• Federal regulations set a baseline, but New Jersey’s prohibitions are more comprehensive and enforceable within the state.

• Possession of unregistered FRT triggers violates both federal and state laws, leading to compounded legal consequences.

• Coordination between federal and state agencies ensures enforcement of these overlapping regulations.

Thus, federal law supports but does not override New Jersey’s stringent restrictions on FRT triggers.

Which Law Applies in Common Real-World Scenarios?

Understanding which laws apply in everyday situations involving FRT triggers helps clarify legal risks for individuals in New Jersey.

Different scenarios invoke state or federal laws depending on location, possession, and intent.

• Owning an FRT trigger at home in New Jersey is illegal under state law, regardless of federal registration status.

• Buying an FRT trigger online and shipping it to New Jersey violates state law and may breach federal import regulations.

• Transporting an FRT trigger across state lines into New Jersey triggers both federal and state prohibitions, risking seizure and prosecution.

• Using an FRT trigger on private property in New Jersey remains illegal due to state restrictions on firearm modifications.

• Visitors carrying FRT triggers into New Jersey must comply with state laws, which do not recognize out-of-state permits for such devices.

These examples illustrate the primacy of New Jersey law in regulating FRT triggers within its borders.

Restrictions and Conditions You Must Follow

New Jersey imposes specific restrictions on FRT triggers, including outright bans and conditions on possession and transfer.

Compliance requires understanding these limitations to avoid legal violations.

• Possession of FRT triggers without a New Jersey Division of State Police permit is prohibited for all individuals.

• There are no age exemptions; minors cannot legally possess or use these devices.

• Licenses or permits for machine gun possession are extremely limited and rarely granted for FRT triggers.

• Use of FRT triggers is banned in all locations within New Jersey, including private property.

• Sale, transfer, or manufacture of FRT triggers is forbidden, with no exceptions for collectors or dealers.

Adhering to these restrictions is essential to remain within the law in New Jersey.

Penalties for Violating the Law in New Jersey

Violating New Jersey’s laws on FRT triggers carries serious penalties, including criminal charges and fines.

Penalties vary depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

• Possession of an FRT trigger without authorization is a third-degree felony, punishable by imprisonment and fines.

• Manufacturing or selling FRT triggers can result in higher felony charges with longer prison terms.

• Confiscation of firearms equipped with FRT triggers is standard upon detection by law enforcement.

• First-time offenders may face probation, but repeat violations lead to harsher sentences.

• Enforcement often begins with investigations triggered by purchases, tips, or routine checks.

These penalties underscore the importance of compliance with New Jersey’s firearm laws.

Common Situations Where People Get Confused

Many individuals misunderstand the legality of FRT triggers due to conflicting information and complex regulations.

Clarifying these common confusions can help prevent inadvertent violations.

• Some believe owning an FRT trigger is legal if it is not attached to a firearm, but New Jersey law prohibits possession regardless of attachment.

• Interstate travel with FRT triggers is often misunderstood; New Jersey law applies once the device enters state borders.

• “Legal to own” does not mean “legal to use,” as use of FRT triggers is banned in all circumstances.

• Federal legality myths suggest registration allows possession, but New Jersey’s stricter laws override such federal permissions.

• Purchasing FRT triggers online without checking state laws leads to illegal possession upon delivery in New Jersey.

Understanding these points helps individuals avoid common legal pitfalls.

Recent Legal Changes or Court Decisions

Recent legal developments in New Jersey have reinforced the prohibition on FRT triggers, with no significant relaxations or exceptions.

The state continues to uphold strict firearm modification laws through legislation and court rulings.

• In 2025, New Jersey amended its firearm statutes to explicitly include FRT triggers in the definition of prohibited machine gun components.

• Courts have upheld convictions for possession of FRT triggers, affirming the state’s authority to regulate these devices.

• No recent legislation has eased restrictions or provided exemptions for FRT triggers.

• Law enforcement agencies have increased enforcement efforts following these legal clarifications.

• Public safety concerns continue to drive the state’s firm stance on firearm accessory regulation.

These developments confirm the ongoing illegality of FRT triggers in New Jersey.

Practical Examples

If you live in New Jersey and possess an FRT trigger, state law prohibits its ownership and use, exposing you to criminal penalties and confiscation.

If you bought an FRT trigger in another state and bring it into New Jersey, you violate state law immediately upon entry, risking seizure and prosecution regardless of federal registration.

• A New Jersey resident purchasing an FRT trigger online faces illegal possession charges once the item is delivered within the state.

• A visitor transporting an FRT trigger through New Jersey must declare and surrender the device to avoid legal consequences.

These examples highlight the importance of understanding and complying with New Jersey’s firearm accessory laws.

Conclusion

FRT triggers are generally illegal to own, use, sell, or manufacture in New Jersey due to their classification as prohibited firearm modifications. The state’s strict gun laws prioritize public safety by banning devices that increase firing rates beyond semi-automatic limits.

Compliance with New Jersey’s regulations is essential for residents and visitors to avoid severe penalties, including felony charges and confiscation. Always check state-specific laws before acquiring or transporting firearm accessories like FRT triggers to ensure lawful possession and use.

FAQs

Can I legally buy an FRT trigger in New Jersey?

No, purchasing an FRT trigger in New Jersey is illegal due to state laws prohibiting possession and sale of such firearm modifications.

Is it legal to own an FRT trigger if I live outside New Jersey but visit the state?

Possession of an FRT trigger in New Jersey is illegal regardless of residency, so visitors must comply with state laws to avoid penalties.

What penalties could I face for possessing an FRT trigger in New Jersey?

Possession can result in felony charges, fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of the device and any firearms equipped with it.

Can I transport an FRT trigger through New Jersey if I have federal registration?

Even with federal registration, New Jersey law prohibits possession and transport of FRT triggers within the state, risking legal consequences.

Are there any exceptions for using FRT triggers on private property in New Jersey?

No, New Jersey bans the use of FRT triggers on all properties, including private land, without exceptions.