Second Amendment

Quick Definition: Second Amendment

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Key points

• Recognized as protecting an individual’s right to possess firearms, especially for self-defense (District of Columbia v. Heller, 2008).
• Applied to state and local governments through incorporation (McDonald v. City of Chicago, 2010).
• Subject to regulation—laws on background checks, weapon types, and carry permits have been upheld or challenged based on scope.

FAQ

• Does this amendment protect all types of weapons? No, courts have allowed restrictions on certain weapons and conditions.
• Is militia service required to own a gun? No, Heller clarified it protects individual rights independent of militia service.
• Can states make their own gun laws? Yes, but they must not violate the constitutional protections defined by the Supreme Court.