Owning Surplus Military Firearms as a Civilian in Texas
Bolt-action rifles, semi-auto surplus rifles, and pistols from military armories are widely collected. Here’s what a Texas civilian can own.
Military surplus firearms make up a significant collector market. Texas civilians can own most surplus firearms subject to federal rules on their configuration.
What’s freely ownable
- Bolt-action rifles: Mauser K98, Mosin-Nagant M91/30 and M44, Lee-Enfield, Arisaka, Carcano, Springfield 1903, Krag-Jorgensen. Own like any hunting rifle.
- Semi-automatic surplus rifles: M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, SVT-40, and later semi-auto variants like the Century Arms C39 or Zastava AK imports.
- Pistols: 1911 variants, Beretta 92, Walther PPK, Tokarev TT-33 (in modern chamberings or 7.62×25 with appropriate ammo).
What requires NFA paperwork
- Machine guns. Full-auto Thompsons, MG42s, Bren guns, and similar require a pre-1986 registered receiver and a $200 tax stamp. Prices are steep, availability is limited.
- SBR/SBS configurations. If the barrel or overall length falls under NFA thresholds, tax stamp required.
- Destructive devices. Certain anti-tank rifles, mortars, and grenade launchers.
Semi-auto conversions
Many surplus receivers were re-manufactured as semi-auto only for civilian import (M14 to M1A, MG42 to MG42 semi, etc.). These fire one round per trigger pull and are treated like any semi-automatic rifle. Legal in Texas without NFA paperwork.
Import markings
Federal law requires imported firearms to bear the importer’s markings. Original-marked collector pieces exist but are rare and generally command a premium.
Ammunition
Many surplus calibers are still commercial: 8mm Mauser, 7.62x54R, 7.62×39, .303 British, 6.5 Carcano, 6.5 Arisaka, 7.62 Tokarev. Buy from a reputable source. Corrosive-primed ammo is safe to shoot if you clean promptly with the right cleaner.
Come by FANG. We usually have a rotating selection of military surplus, and we can talk you through what’s collectible and what’s a shooter.
Stay safe. Semper Fi.
Gunny
Straight talk: This is education, not legal advice. Gun law changes. Consult a Texas attorney for your specific situation, and always confirm current rules with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the ATF.
