PICA Banned Firearms:
Features Test and Named Models

The Protect Illinois Communities Act defines "assault weapon" through two independent prongs: a characteristics-based features test and a named model list. A firearm that meets either definition is classified as an assault weapon and is subject to the ban. Understanding both prongs is essential for determining whether a specific firearm falls within the statute's scope.^[1]

Features Test: Semiautomatic Rifles

A semiautomatic rifle is classified as an assault weapon under PICA if it can accept a detachable magazine and has one or more of the following features:^[2]

• A pistol grip or thumbhole stock
• A folding or telescoping stock
• A grenade launcher
• Any feature capable of functioning as a protruding grip that can be held by the non-trigger hand
• A barrel shroud
• A flash suppressor
• A threaded barrel
• A buffer tube, arm brace, or similar horizontal protrusion designed for shoulder firing

This is a "one feature" test -- only one of the listed characteristics, combined with the ability to accept a detachable magazine, is required to trigger classification as an assault weapon.

Features Test: Semiautomatic Pistols

A semiautomatic pistol is classified as an assault weapon if it can accept a detachable magazine and has one or more specified features, or if it has a fixed magazine with a capacity to accept more than 15 rounds. The features criteria for pistols differ slightly from rifles and focus on characteristics such as a threaded barrel, a barrel shroud, or a weight exceeding 50 ounces when unloaded.^[1]

Features Test: Semiautomatic Shotguns

A semiautomatic shotgun is classified as an assault weapon if it has one or more of the following features: a pistol grip or thumbhole stock, a folding or telescoping stock, a fixed magazine with a capacity exceeding five rounds, or the ability to accept a detachable magazine. A revolving cylinder shotgun also falls within the definition.^[1]

Named Model List

In addition to the features test, PICA enumerates specific firearms by name. These include AR-15 platform rifles, AK-47 variants, and numerous other models from a wide range of manufacturers. A firearm that appears on the named list is an assault weapon regardless of whether it has any of the features described in the characteristics test. The named list includes both current production models and legacy firearms that are no longer manufactured.^[3]

.50 Caliber Rifles and Cartridges

PICA also bans .50 caliber rifles and .50 caliber cartridges as a separate category. This provision captures any center-fire rifle that can fire a .50 caliber cartridge, regardless of whether the rifle meets the features test or appears on the named model list. The ban on .50 caliber cartridges themselves is a distinct provision -- mere possession of .50 caliber ammunition is prohibited for persons who are not exempt.^[1]

What Is Not Covered

Bolt-action rifles, lever-action rifles, pump-action shotguns, revolvers, and manually operated firearms are not affected by the assault weapon definition. Semiautomatic rifles with fixed magazines that do not have any of the enumerated features are also not classified as assault weapons under PICA. However, all firearms remain subject to existing Illinois FOID and background check requirements.^[2]