What qualifies as an antique firearm?

Antique firearms are defined by their manufacturing date—specifically, any firearm that was manufactured before January 1, 1900, is classified as an antique. This designation is significant because it implies that such firearms do not fall under the same regulatory framework as modern firearms, which typically are subjected to stricter laws and controls. Furthermore, antique firearms often hold historical value and are collected for their craftsmanship and heritage rather than for practical use, distinguishing them from modern weaponry.

In contrast, options that suggest post-1900 manufacturing dates or modern design do not align with the criteria for antique classification, as they inherently fall outside the intended historical timeframe that defines an antique firearm.