It’s surprising considering the increase in popularity that tasers are experiencing right now when it comes to civilian self-defense. Surprising, that is, that some states continue to restrict the constitutional 2nd Amendment rights of citizens, and doubly surprising that they would do so for a weapon that is far less destructive than any firearm.
Tasers aren’t legal everywhere, but that’s starting to slowly change. How about in Montana? Are tasers legal in there?
Yes, tasers are completely legal to buy, possess, and carry in Montana with no permit required as long as they are being carried for lawful self-defense purposes.
Montana is an exemplary state when it comes to taser possession in civilian hands, and after the recent repeals and revisions of certain statutes over the past decade, there’s now absolutely no impediment standing between the people and their tasers. That’s great news, so keep reading and I’ll be happy to tell you all about it!
How are Tasers Classified in Montana?
Tasers don’t really have a distinct legal classification in Montana at the moment. They don’t fall under the definition of any other weapons mentioned in the statutes, although they could situationally be described as dangerous or deadly weapons depending on when and how they are used.
Broadly speaking, any weapon, implement or other device that can inflict death or great bodily injury on someone, whether or not it is designed to or even designed as a weapon, can qualify as such.
Just something you should keep in mind, and that’s why you must have never, and I mean never, misuse your taser for any unlawful purpose. More on that in a little while…
Are Stun Guns Legal in Montana?
Yes, they are. Stun guns are completely legal in the same way that tasers are in the Treasure State.
And just a quick note, though the two terms are used interchangeably much of the time, tasers and stun guns are not the same thing. Tasers are the dart- or probe-firing electrical weapons, whereas a stun gun must be put into direct contact with someone in order to work.
Remember that not only so you’ll know the difference, but also so you can stay on top of the sometimes confusing terminology employed by state legislatures and also local governments…
What I mean is, you might see tasers and stun guns to find under either term, or both, depending on who writes the laws!
Can You Carry a Taser Openly in Montana?
Yes, you can, as long as you are allowed to legally possess the taser or stun gun and you are not carrying it in a threatening way or for any unlawful purpose.
Can You Carry a Taser Concealed in Montana?
Yes. Concealed carry of a taser or stun gun is likewise legal, with no permit required, as long as you may legally own the device and the device itself is legal. Of course, you also cannot be carrying it for any nefarious or unlawful purpose.
Are there Age Restrictions on Taser Ownership or Possession in Montana?
Yes. You have to be at least 18 in order to purchase, possess or carry a taser or stun gun.
What Do You Need to Do to Purchase a Taser in Montana?
If you want to purchase a taser or stun gun in Montana just seek out a retailer or dealer that has them. Stun guns are typically sold over the counter with no background check or other investigation required. Tasers, on the other hand, will require you to undergo a background check in order to obtain one.
Assuming you have a clean record, which means no felonies, no domestic violence misdemeanors, involuntary mental health incarceration, juvenile delinquency, etc., you’ll be out the door with your taser in short order.
Is Training Mandatory for Taser Ownership in Montana?
No, it isn’t, not for possession or for purchase. However, if you want to get a Montana concealed weapons permit you’ll have to undergo training.
Where Can You Carry a Taser in Montana?
You can carry a taser any place where you are legally allowed to carry weapons, and that includes with all the relevant exceptions based on your profession or job with the state.
Generally, though, in Montana you are not allowed to carry your taser in any government building, of any kind, and at any level. So that means no carrying your taser in city, county, state, or government offices or installations.
Schools are also off limits, be it elementary schools, high schools, or colleges and universities. Likewise, you cannot carry your taser into any police department or sheriff station, or into any correctional or detention facility. You also cannot carry one into a treatment facility whether or not admission is voluntary or mandatory.
Lastly, you can never carry a taser into the secured area of an airport or other sensitive installation beyond a security checkpoint, and you cannot be in possession of one, whether it is carried openly or concealed, or if you are under the influence of any intoxicant.
When Can You Use a Taser to Defend Yourself in Montana?
A taser should only be used to protect yourself from a legitimate threat. This means the use of unlawful force against you that might result in your death or grievous bodily harm.
You cannot use your taser to settle an argument or because someone insulted you, and you can never use it as a prank or joke.
Remember that tasers are considered a significant use of force; it’s not the same as squirting someone with pepper spray! Whenever you zap someone with a taser or stun gun, there is still a chance they could be seriously harmed or even die from it, and for that reason you must never deploy your taser lightly.
Tom Marlowe practically grew up with a gun in his hand, and has held all kinds of jobs in the gun industry: range safety, sales, instruction and consulting, Tom has the experience to help civilian shooters figure out what will work best for them.