Several Mountain States are ranked among the most gun-friendly in 2024, according to Ammo.com, an ammunition e-commerce and wholesaler company.
Wyoming is ranked 12th, thanks to its Constitutional Carry laws, a governor who supports the 2nd Amendment, and policies like Stand Your Ground, Castle Doctrine, and No Duty to Retreat.
Idahoi is the 11th most gun-friendly state. In Idaho, like in Wyoming, residents can open carry and conceal carry without a permit. However, visitors to Idaho will need a concealed carry permit, though the state accepts permits from all 50 states. Standard sales tax applies to firearms and equipment, but there’s no requirement to register firearms or take extra courses before buying them.
North Dakota ranks 10th. Residents only need to live in the state for 30 days to enjoy open and concealed carry rights. Gun owners must be at least 18 years old, have no felony convictions, and face no pending criminal charges. Despite these restrictions, Ammo.com praises North Dakota for allowing those with past convictions to restore their 2nd Amendment rights. The state has also been declared a Second Amendment Sanctuary by Governor Doug Burgum.
South Dakota comes in at 9th place. With 2nd Amendment supporter Kristi Noem as governor, the state has no registration requirements for firearms and does not require additional background checks. Residents can apply for an enhanced carry permit at their local sheriff’s department. South Dakota also accepts concealed carry permits from all 50 states, and residents can apply for a Gold Card to bypass the National Instant Criminal Background Check System NICS.
Montana is ranked 4th. Like other states in the region, Montana has Constitutional Carry laws and no requirements for firearm registration or permits. Additionally, Montana does not impose a sales tax on firearms, making them slightly cheaper compared to other states. Governor Greg Gianforte emphasized Montanans’ pride in their 2nd Amendment rights and their responsibility to protect those rights. In February 2023, he criticized the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to weaken these rights and took steps to block Environmental Social Governance ESG investigation of state funds. Montana is home to over 150 firearms and ammunition businesses.