What’s Going On With New Jersey’s Firearm Magazine Capacity Laws?
Current New Jersey gun laws prohibit anyone from possessing a drum or box magazine that holds more than 10 rounds. Commonly called the New Jersey 10-Round Magazine law, this restrictive provision makes it a fourth-degree offense to possess a “high capacity” magazine.
The New Jersey magazine capacity law has recently come under fire. As a Lakewood gun owner, familiarizing yourself with the latest developments surrounding this law will help you exercise your rights lawfully and advocate for pro-2A changes.
For now, it’s still illegal to possess a high-capacity magazine, but that could be changing soon.
Do you want to exercise your 2nd Amendment rights in New Jersey? Learn how to obtain a NJ CCW with our user-friendly guide.
New Jersey’s 10-Round Magazine Capacity Rule
New Jersey firearm magazine laws cap most firearm magazines at 10 rounds of ammunition. In some cases, .22 caliber weapons are exempt. Prior to 2018, the limit was 15 rounds. However, the law was amended and further reduced the cap by five more rounds, bringing the new limit to just 10 rounds of ammunition.
The rule applies to all detachable box and drum magazines for semi-automatic pistols and rifles.
The Lakewood, NJ, gun magazine law also limits shotguns to just six rounds. Possessing a shotgun with a larger-capacity magazine means that the firearm could be classified as an “assault weapon,” which could lead to serious criminal charges and prison time if convicted.
While reputable firearms stores, like WESHOOT USA, only sell New Jersey-compliant magazines and firearms, you have to be cautious when buying from private sellers. The smartest move is to go to a licensed FFL that understands New Jersey’s restrictive firearm and magazine laws.
How New Jersey Defines “Large Capacity Magazine”
A “large capacity magazine” is a detachable box or drum magazine that is capable of holding more than 10 rounds.
If you possess a large capacity magazine in New Jersey, you could be criminally charged, even if the magazine is loaded with fewer than 10 rounds. The law considers how much the magazine can hold, not how many rounds you’ve loaded.
Fixed tubular magazines on .22-caliber semi-auto rifles are exempt. That is the only notable exemption currently on the books in New Jersey. However, recent legal challenges could force New Jersey and other states with restrictive magazine capacity laws to make some updates to these statutes.
Legal Challenges and the Post-Bruen Language
The Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs v. Platkin was referred to the Supreme Court of the United States via a writ of certiorari in late 2025. The limit was previously upheld, but the Supreme Court of the United States will have the final say if a majority of the justices approve the writ of certiorari.
The 2022 Bruen decision reshaped how courts evaluate Second Amendment laws. It required them to align with historical firearm regulations, but the decision was not enough to appeal the current 10-round magazine capacity restrictions.
For Lakewood-area gun owners, the law is still enforceable. However, the Supreme Court’s decision could change how the law is applied, or whether it stands at all.
Criminal Penalties and What “Possession” Really Means
New Jersey takes firearms violations, including possession of a magazine capable of holding more than 10 rounds, very seriously. If you are found in possession of a high-capacity magazine, you could be charged with a fourth-degree crime in New Jersey. Typical penalties include up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
A conviction will lead to a permanent criminal record. If you are charged with other firearm-related crimes in the future, the previous conviction could lead to an upcharge and elevated penalties. If you are in possession of more than one non-compliant magazine, you could be charged with multiple counts of the crime.
How New Jersey Enforces the 10-Round Rule
New Jersey law enforcement officers may discover non-compliant magazines during:
- Traffic stops
- Searches related to arrests
- Routine checks
Prosecutors in Lakewood and throughout the state will treat possession of a high-capacity magazine as a standalone 4th-degree weapons charge, even if the firearm itself was compliant. There are escalating penalties if you are charged with multiple firearm or assault-weapon violations.
New Jersey is known for its aggressive enforcement of the magazine capacity rule. You can be charged for possessing a non-compliant magazine, even if there was no intent to commit a crime.
Exceptions, Law Enforcement, and Special Cases
Active-duty law enforcement officers are exempt from the magazine capacity restriction. Retired law enforcement officers may qualify if they meet specific statutory conditions.
Civilians may also use larger magazines in certain scenarios. Typically, they will need to register the weapon with the state and use it exclusively for approved competitive events, such as 3-gun tournaments.
Any modifications to reduce the capacity of magazines must be permanent. If a block can easily be removed, the magazine may be non-compliant.
Practical Compliance Steps for New Jersey Gun Owners
Here are some tips to stay compliant and avoid violating New Jersey’s 10-round capacity law:
- Inventory all of your magazines and make sure none of them can hold more than 10 rounds.
- Convert eligible magazines permanently or surrender them to avoid violations.
- Retain proof of permanent modification to protect yourself.
If you have any specific legal questions, consult a New Jersey firearms law attorney.
What Lakewood Shooters Should Watch For Next
The 10-round rule remains enforceable, but The Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs v. Platkin case could have serious implications for New Jersey gun owners.
As a Lakewood gun owner, it’s important to follow this case and any other relevant legislative updates that could impact your rights. Do you need assistance with magazine modifications or have questions? WESHOOT is here to help. Contact us to learn more or to purchase compliant magazines.
