The Oregon Possession Of A Restricted Weapon Guide: Meaning & Sentencing

Some weapons are completely illegal to have in Oregon, even if you never use them. Oregon Possession of a Restricted Weapon charges can happen simply because you’re carrying or storing certain items. These restricted weapons include things like switchblades, sap gloves, and specific explosives. You don’t have to use the weapon or even intend to—just having it is enough to face criminal charges. Maybe you picked something up at a gun show or ordered it online without knowing the law. That honest mistake can still land you in big legal trouble. 

Oregon Possession of a Restricted Weapon Meaning (ORS 166.270)

The law focuses on protecting public safety by limiting access to dangerous or unusual items. Under ORS 166.270, people who are prohibited from owning firearms—like felons—can face even more serious charges if they’re found with restricted weapons. This law specifically targets individuals who aren’t legally allowed to have any dangerous weapons due to their criminal background. Getting caught with one can lead to separate charges under both laws. 

What Weapons Are Restricted? 

According to state law, if you’ve been convicted of a felony in Oregon, another state, or under federal law, you can be charged with Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon if you're found with any of the weapons listed in the statute: 

● Switchblades – Knives that open automatically by spring or by flipping the wrist 

● Blackjacks – Small, heavy clubs often used to strike 

● Slungshots – Weighted weapons tied to a strap or rope 

● Sandclubs, sandbags, or sap gloves – Impact weapons filled or weighted to cause injury 

● Metal knuckles – Also known as brass knuckles, worn over the knuckles to increase punching force 

● Electro-Muscular Disruption devices – Like stun guns or tasers, as defined under Oregon law

● Dirks, daggers, or stilettos – Long, pointed knives designed for stabbing 

Keep in mind that it’s illegal to own or possess a machine gun in Oregon unless it’s registered and authorized under federal law. Unlawful possession of a short-barreled shotgun, short-barreled rifle, machine gun, or firearms silencer is a Class B Felony. 

What Felons Can Possess Firearms 

If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you generally can’t legally own or carry a firearm in Oregon. It doesn’t matter if the felony was violent or non-violent, or if it happened in Oregon or another state. State and federal laws both ban felons from having guns. 

There are some rare exceptions to this rule. For example, if your felony was reduced to a misdemeanor at sentencing, you may not be barred. You might also qualify if your only conviction was for marijuana possession before January 1, 1972. Another possible exception is if you were convicted of just one felony—one that didn’t involve homicide, a gun, or a switchblade—and you’ve been off parole, probation, or prison for at least 15 years. 

In some cases, gun rights can also be restored through a pardon, expungement, or other legal relief. These situations are complex and fact-specific. If you feel you might qualify for an exception or want to restore your rights, talk with an attorney. 

Possession of a Restricted Weapon Sentencing 

Possession of a Restricted Weapon in Oregon is usually a Class A misdemeanor. That means it’s not treated as lightly as a traffic ticket but also not as seriously as a felony. Still, a conviction can come with some pretty tough consequences. However, a felon in possession of a firearm is a Class C felony. 

The minimum and maximum sentences depend on the facts of the case and your criminal history. For a first-time offense, you could face up to 364 days in jail and a fine up to $6,250. In some cases, the court may order probation instead of jail time, especially if there are no prior offenses. However, if the restricted weapon was used during another crime, the penalties can increase. That could even push the charge to a felony level. A felony conviction brings harsher minimum and maximum sentences, including possible prison time. Always take these charges seriously and get legal advice as soon as possible. 

Are Gun Rights Automatically Restored in Oregon? 

The short answer is no. If you’ve lost your gun rights due to a felony conviction, they aren’t automatically restored after you serve your sentence. Even after completing probation or parole, the ban still applies unless you take legal steps to restore your rights. 

Restoring your gun rights in Oregon usually requires one of three things: a pardon, a set-aside of your conviction, or a formal request for rights restoration. Each option has different requirements and timelines. For example, you typically must wait at least one year after completing your sentence before applying for restoration. 

The Oregon Possession of a Restricted Weapon Guide Conclusion

Understanding Oregon’s weapon and firearm laws can feel overwhelming, especially when past convictions or complicated exceptions are involved. Whether you’re dealing with charges related to restricted weapons or trying to figure out if your rights can be restored, having the right guidance makes all the difference. 

If you’re looking to restore your gun rights in Oregon or facing other legal challenges, you need someone you can trust. Turn to our team at Powell Law—we’re here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and experienced support.