Is a machine gun classified as a prohibited weapon?

A machine gun is classified as a prohibited weapon primarily due to its capability to fire multiple rounds automatically with a single pull of the trigger. The regulations surrounding such firearms stem from concerns about public safety, given their potential for mass casualty in criminal activities. Under federal law, specifically the National Firearms Act (NFA), machine guns manufactured after May 19, 1986, are illegal for civilian ownership, making them prohibited weapons.

While some states might have varying degrees of regulation or restrictions on their ownership, the fundamental classification of machine guns as prohibited due to their automatic firing capability remains consistent at the federal level, which is foundational for understanding gun laws in the United States. Thus, the classification as a prohibited weapon is firm, aligning with a national standard aimed at curbing the risks associated with such firearms.