Is a Net Gun a Firearm? What You Need to Know About Net Gun Laws

A net gun is generally not classified as a firearm, and it uses compressed CO2 gas to launch a net instead of a bullet. Because there is no gunpowder involved, most places do not regulate it the way they regulate guns. Rules can still vary by state and country, so check your local laws before you buy or use one.

Is a Net Gun a Firearm? The Short Answer

In most cases, no. A firearm uses an explosive charge to fire a projectile that can harm a target. A net gun does neither of those things.

Instead, a net gun uses a small CO2 cartridge to push a folded net into the air. The net opens and drops over an animal or object to capture it, not to injure it.

This is why net guns are widely treated as capture tools rather than weapons. Even so, the exact rules depend on where you live, so always check your local laws.

Why a Net Gun Is Not Treated Like a Gun

The difference comes down to how the two work. A firearm relies on gunpowder and a bullet. A net gun relies on compressed gas and a soft net.

There is no explosion, no metal projectile, and no design meant to wound. The goal is a safe, humane catch.

What a Net Gun Actually Fires

A net gun fires a wide net with small weights on the corners. When the CO2 cartridge releases gas, the weights pull the net open in the air. The net then settles over the target and holds it in place.

Do You Need a License or Permit to Own a Net Gun?

In most areas, you do not need a special license to buy or own a net gun. Because it is generally not classified as a firearm, it usually does not go through the same paperwork as a gun.

That said, some states, cities, or countries may have their own rules. Certain capture activities can also require a permit, even when the tool itself is not restricted.

The safest move is simple. Check your local laws and any wildlife regulations before you buy, and confirm the rules for how you plan to use it.

Net Gun Laws Can Vary by State and Country

Net guns are generally not classified as firearms, but regulations vary by state. What is allowed in one place may be limited in another.

International rules vary even more. Some countries treat capture equipment differently, and shipping or importing can add its own requirements.

Using a Net Gun Around Wildlife

If you plan to capture wild animals, wildlife agencies may require a permit for that activity. This is about the act of capturing the animal, not the net gun itself. Check with your state wildlife office so you stay within the rules.

How Net Guns Are Used Legally

Net guns are trusted tools for people who need to capture safely and humanely. They are used every day in fields where harming the target is not an option.

Common users include animal control officers, wildlife researchers, farmers and ranchers, and rescue volunteers. Many people also use them for drone capture, where stopping a drone without gunfire is a big advantage.

Because the tool is built to capture and not to harm, it fits cleanly into humane and safety-focused work. To see how these uses play out, read our guide What Animals Can You Catch With a Net Gun? and Do Net Guns Work Against Drones?

Buying a Net Gun the Right Way

Start by matching the net gun to your job, then confirm the rules where you live. A quality kit should come ready to use with nets and cartridges included.

Our Net Gun Mega Pack, also called the Platinum Pack, is our best-selling net gun and comes fully loaded for capture work. If you want a simpler setup, the Hero Net Gun standard package covers the basics.

You can browse our full net gun lineup to compare options and pick the right fit.

Common Questions About Net Gun Laws

Is a net gun considered a firearm?

Generally no. A net gun uses compressed CO2 gas and a net rather than gunpowder and a bullet, so it is usually not classified as a firearm. Rules can vary, so check your local laws.

Do I need a license to buy a net gun?

In most areas you do not need a firearms license to buy a net gun. Some places may still have their own rules, so confirm the laws where you live.

Are net guns legal to own?

Net guns are generally legal to own and are treated as capture tools. Regulations vary by state and country, so always check your local laws first.

Can police and animal control use net guns?

Yes. Net guns are widely used by animal control officers, law enforcement, and wildlife teams for safe, humane capture.

Do I need a permit to capture animals with a net gun?

Sometimes. The net gun itself is usually not restricted, but capturing certain wild animals can require a wildlife permit. Check with your state wildlife office.

Get a Net Gun Built for Safe, Humane Capture

A net gun gives you a legal, non-lethal way to capture animals and drones in most areas. Our best-selling Platinum Pack ships ready to fire with nets and cartridges included. Shop our full collection at TheNetGunStore.com and always check your local laws before you use it.