Are "metal-penetrating bullets" legal to possess unless used during the commission of a crime?

The possession of metal-penetrating bullets, commonly referred to as armor-piercing or cop-killer bullets, is subject to specific regulations and varies by state law. In the context of Minnesota law, as well as federal law defined under the Gun Control Act, such ammunition can be legal for possession under certain circumstances, particularly if they are not used in the commission of a crime.

The rationale behind this is that, in general, the mere possession of most types of ammunition is not necessarily illegal unless it is intended for use in committing a criminal act. Law-abiding citizens may have legitimate reasons for owning metal-penetrating bullets, including for use in hunting, sport shooting, or collection.

The distinction here is crucial; while these types of bullets may be viewed with caution due to their potential lethality, the law typically focuses on the intent and the context in which they are used. Therefore, the correct understanding is that they are legal to possess unless there is a specific offense associated with their use during a crime.