Non-gun By Definition?

[36g]

Would a device that fired a projectile by means other than gunpowder be considered a firearm?

Thinking a rail gun type of action although could be spring or compress gas initiated. Projectile could be a folding fin stabilized crossbow type of bolt at supersonic velocities. Thinking of shoulder fired as opposed to tripod/gun mount.

I realize that a bolt would be more cross-wind sensitive and for more stability a canted fin to impart spin would be beneficial.

Does this make any sense?

[Recycled bullet]

There are many ways to store and release energy.

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

you mean like a Air Archery Arrow Rifle?

https://www.umarexusa.com/umarex-air...th-axeon-scope

[Recycled bullet]

I have to admit that the recoil from a supersonic pneumatic Arrow gun may be catastrophic if you intended it to be shoulder fired

[schutzen-jager]

depends on your state + local jurisdiction - here all air guns r require same licensing + restrictions as any firearm - sling shots + blowguns are strictly verboten + can not be legally owned at all -

[Rhys79]

Here in Indiana I can shoot anything but a firearm, which is defined in IN Code § 35-47-1-5 (2024) as any device designed to or readily converted to be able to propell a projectile by means of an explosion, in city limits. That includes slingshots, blowguns, air rifles, and anything archery. Only limits are it has to be on your own property, or you have to have written consent from the property owner, and you cannot shoot across a public road or park. I have a roughly 3/4 acre lot, and can easily hunt squirrels, rabbits, groundhogs etc. Sometimes I even get deer on the property, and could legally harvest them as long as it's with a bow/crossbow and I follow all the other rules and regs regarding deer hunting (season, permits, etc).

[36g]

you mean like a Air Archery Arrow Rifle?

https://www.umarexusa.com/umarex-air...th-axeon-scope

That's kind of along the lines of what I was thinking only bumping it up to supersonic velocities.