In an era where discussions around the Second Amendment and gun ownership are intensely polarized and complex, the question of what arms private citizens can legally own takes on a particularly intriguing dimension when considering military tanks. Not mere hyperbole or a facetious thought experiment, the reality is that in the United States, one can indeed legally own a decommissioned military tank.
The legal framework permitting the ownership of these formidable machines is relatively straightforward, yet comes with caveats. Any U.S. citizen, without requiring a military background, can lawfully acquire a decommissioned military tank. However, these tanks are required to be non-functional in terms of armament—they must have their cannons disabled and are not allowed to come with any ammunition. The tanks available for purchase usually stem from vintage collections, often requiring modification or repair to become operational even as mere vehicles. “Often, they require modifications and can be pricey to ship since many are of foreign provenance,” explains the complexity and expense involved in owning such a colossal piece of machinery.
While owning a non-functional tank might be as simple as any other large vehicle purchase, acquiring a tank with a working cannon is a different story altogether. For such ownership, one must obtain a federally-issued Destructive Device permit, a process steeped in “a bureaucratic hassle” and “thorough background checks.” It is a rarity for civilians to qualify for this license, and the restrictions do not end with the acquisition. Even with the permit, the operation of the tank is highly restricted to specific circumstances.
The legal hoops may deter most, but the allure of tank ownership has attracted a niche audience. Private collectors and tank museums across the U.S. possess such military relics, with some prominent figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger owning tanks. These tanks, devoid of their martial capabilities, serve as powerful symbols of history and collector passion.
However, owning a tank is not without its practical challenges. Besides their obvious destructive capability when functional, tanks are unwieldy, consume large amounts of fuel, and are ill-suited for common transportation needs. Additionally, each state has its regulations regarding the operation of these vehicles; some states, like Ohio, permit driving them on public roads for events such as parades or exhibitions, but generally, driving a tank on public roads is heavily regulated and requires special permissions.
The complex legal and logistical aspects of tank ownership illuminate a broader discussion on the nature of weapon ownership in America. As it stands, the paradox remains: one can own a tank, a symbol of military might, as long as its most destructive features are neutralized, while the debate continues over the regulation of firearms that are far more accessible and commonly used in civilian life.
Relevant articles:
– If it’s legal to buy an AR-15 in America, why can’t you buy a tank? You can! John Blumenthal, Cleveland.com
– How To Become A Tank Driver: What It Is and Career Path, zippia.com
– Is It Really Legal To Buy And Own A Tank? Here’s What The Law Says, SlashGear, Oct 23, 2023
– Is purchasing a tank legal?, Law Stack Exchange, May 10, 2021