When most people think about a weapons charge, the first thing that might come to mind are guns and knives. But many other items are considered weapons as well, many of which can lead to unlawfully carrying weapons (UCW) charges in Texas.
Weapons Law Changes
Texas weapons law has undergone a few changes in recent years. Possessing weapons like brass knuckles and clubs was against the law before September 2019. That is no longer the case.
Gun laws have undergone some changes too. As of September 1, 2021, anyone aged 21 or older who can legally own a firearm can carry a handgun on their person in public places, with some exceptions. The handgun must be in a holster if it is visible.
Illegal Weapons That Result In Weapons Charges
Some weapons are legal to carry and have on your own property. There are some items that people are allowed to have if the item is registered in the National Firearms Registration. The item must also have a transfer record with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. These items are:
- Explosive weapon
- Machine gun
- Short-barrel firearm
There are other weapons that are always illegal to possess, manufacture, transport, repair, or sell. Possessing any of the following can cause someone to end up with a weapons charge:
Armor-piercing ammunition – handgun ammunition designed to go through body armor or metal.
Chemical dispensing device – a device designed to disperse a substance that causes an adverse reaction on a person. This does not include a small dispenser sold for personal protection.
Zip gun – a device or combination of devices that were not a firearm that has been changed into a firearm.
Tire deflation device – a device that, when driven over, punctures tires and stops the movement of a wheeled vehicle. An example would be a spike strip.
Improvised explosive device – a working bomb made of nonmilitary parts designed to cause serious injury, property damage, or death.
As you can see, many things can be considered a weapon and not be a gun or knife.
Places Weapons Are Not Allowed In Texas
Even with the Constitutional carry law, there are some places where weapons are not allowed. If a person has a weapon in any of the following places, they can find themselves facing a weapons charge:
- Schools and colleges
- Within 1,000 feet of a place of execution
- A polling place on election day
- Airports
- Racetracks
- Government courts or court offices without permission
- Hospitals and mental health facilities
- Correctional facilities
- A business where 51% or more of its income is from alcohol sales.
- Professional sporting events
A person who is intoxicated and carrying a firearm anywhere outside of their own property can be charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon.
Weapons Charges In Texas Are Serious Business
While weapons laws have changed a lot in the past few years, there are still weapons that are illegal. If someone is behaving irresponsibly while in possession of a weapon, they can end up in serious trouble.
If you are facing weapons charges, Vinas & Graham PLLC can help you understand the process. Please contact them today for more information. You can also follow them on Facebook.
