Which of the following is NOT regarded as a firearm?

An antique firearm is typically considered NOT to be a firearm under many legal definitions. This is often due to the fact that antique firearms are firearms manufactured before a certain year (often before 1899), which are not subject to the same regulations and restrictions as modern firearms. The reasoning behind this classification is that they are often viewed as collectibles rather than tools of self-defense or sport, hence they may not require the same licensing or background checks.

In contrast, fully automatic firearms, cannons, and light mortars are generally classified as firearms because they are designed specifically for offensive or defensive purposes, and they usually fall under the regulatory framework pertaining to more modern weaponry. These categories typically require licensing, background checks, and adherence to specific restrictions. Thus, the classification of antique firearms helps to clarify legal responsibilities and ownership rights compared to contemporary firearms.