The Legality of Flamethrowers in the United States: A Detailed Examination

Introduction

The claim under scrutiny states that flamethrowers are legal in all U.S. states except Maryland, where they are completely banned. It further asserts that California is the only other state with restrictions, requiring a permit for flamethrowers that can project flames beyond 10 feet. This claim raises questions about the legality and regulation of flamethrowers across the United States.

What We Know

1. General Legality: Flamethrowers are broadly legal for personal ownership and use in the United States. However, specific regulations vary by state. Maryland is noted as the only state that outright bans flamethrowers 13.

2. California Regulations: In California, flamethrowers are legal but require a permit if they can project flames over 10 feet. This regulation is intended to ensure responsible ownership and mitigate safety risks 247.

3. Other States: The claim implies that all other states have no restrictions on flamethrowers. While many states do not have specific laws regarding flamethrowers, some may have local ordinances or regulations that could affect ownership and use 28.

4. Federal Regulations: At the federal level, flamethrowers are not classified as firearms under the National Firearms Act, which means they are not subject to the same regulations as guns 69.

Analysis

Source Reliability

• Wikipedia: While it provides a broad overview, Wikipedia's open-edit nature can lead to inaccuracies. However, it is often a good starting point for general information 1.

• Legal Clarity: This source appears to provide a comprehensive overview of the legal landscape regarding flamethrowers. However, the lack of clear authorship raises questions about its reliability 2.

• World Population Review: This source is generally reliable for demographic and legal information, but it should be noted that it may not always provide the most current legal updates 3.

• Lifehacker: Known for practical advice, this source is typically reliable but may simplify complex legal issues for a general audience 4.

• Throwflame: This source is a commercial entity selling flamethrowers. As such, it may have a conflict of interest in portraying flamethrowers positively 6.

• CNN: A reputable news organization, CNN's fact-checking articles are generally reliable and well-sourced 7.

• Classic Firearms: Similar to Throwflame, this source is a commercial entity, which may influence its presentation of flamethrower legality 8.

Conflicting Information

The claim that Maryland is the only state with a complete ban on flamethrowers is supported by multiple sources 134. However, the assertion that California is the only other state with restrictions is somewhat misleading. While California does have specific regulations, other states may have local laws that could restrict flamethrower use, though these are not as widely reported.

Methodology Concerns

The claim lacks specific details about the nature of restrictions in other states. Additional information on local ordinances or regulations would provide a clearer picture of the legal landscape. Furthermore, the claim does not address the potential for changes in legislation, which can occur frequently at both state and local levels.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly True

The claim that flamethrowers are legal in all U.S. states except Maryland, which has a complete ban, is mostly accurate. Maryland is indeed the only state with an outright prohibition on flamethrowers, and California does have specific regulations requiring permits for flamethrowers that project flames beyond 10 feet. However, the assertion that all other states have no restrictions is misleading, as some states may have local ordinances that could impose limitations on flamethrower ownership and use.

It is important to note that the legal landscape regarding flamethrowers can vary significantly due to local laws, which are not always well-documented or reported. Additionally, laws can change, and the claim does not account for potential future legislative developments.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding flamethrower legality and consult local laws to ensure compliance, as the nuances of state and local regulations may not be fully captured in broader claims.

Sources

1. Regulation of flamethrowers in the United States - Wikipedia. Link
2. Is It Legal to Own a Flamethrower in the United States? - Legal Clarity. Link
3. Flamethrower Legal States 2025 - World Population Review. Link
4. Is It Legal to Own a Flamethrower? - Lifehacker. Link
5. What states is it legal to own a flamethrower? - Short-Fact. Link
6. FAQ | Flamethrower for Sale - Throwflame. Link
7. Fact check: Biden's claim that 'you're not allowed' to own a ... - CNN. Link
8. Are Flamethrowers Legal? How Do I buy One? | Gun News | Firearms - Classic Firearms. Link
9. Regulation of flamethrowers in the United States - Wikiwand. Link
10. California Banned His Flamethrower – So He Moved to ... - SOFREP. Link