Destructive Devices (DDs): Grenades, Cannons, and Large-Bore Guns

Destructive devices (DDs) are an NFA category that covers explosive ordnance and large-bore firearms. It includes things like grenades, bombs, and missiles, as well as firearms with a bore over one-half inch that the ATF does not recognize as suitable for sporting purposes.

This is a specialized area, but plenty of collectors legally own DDs — think 37mm and 40mm launchers, certain cannons, and large-bore historical pieces. This guide explains the categories and the process at a high level.

This is general information, not legal advice; verify with the ATF or a qualified attorney.

Two broad types of destructive device

The first type is explosive, incendiary, or poison-gas devices: bombs, grenades, rockets with a large propellant charge, missiles with an explosive charge, mines, and similar ordnance.

The second type is any firearm with a bore diameter greater than one-half inch (0.50 caliber), unless the ATF has classified it as generally recognized as particularly suitable for sporting purposes. This is why standard shotguns are exempt even though their bores exceed half an inch — they are recognized sporting firearms.

Explosive ordnance: grenades, bombs, mines, large rockets
Large-bore firearms: bore over 0.50 inch, excluding recognized sporting arms
Ammunition for a DD can itself be regulated

Common civilian-owned DDs

In practice, the DDs most often owned by collectors are 37mm and 40mm launchers (with non-explosive ammunition), certain cannons and mortars, and large-bore rifles. Each explosive round, such as a live 40mm grenade, is itself a separate destructive device requiring its own registration and $200 tax stamp.

That per-round tax is why hobbyists typically stick to flares, chalk, or other non-explosive projectiles that are not themselves DDs.

The transfer process

Acquiring a DD follows the standard NFA path: an ATF Form 4 with a $200 transfer tax, fingerprints, a photo, and CLEO notification. Making a DD uses a Form 1 with a $200 making tax.

Because DDs often involve specialized dealers, buyers frequently work with a licensee who holds the appropriate license type and SOT status.

How DDs relate to FFL types

Dealing in destructive devices requires specific federal firearms license types: Type 09 (dealer in DDs), Type 10 (manufacturer of DDs), and Type 11 (importer of DDs). These are distinct from the ordinary Type 01 dealer license.

If you are buying, you do not need one of these licenses yourself, but the dealer transferring the DD to you generally does.

State-law variance

Many states heavily restrict or ban destructive devices, and local rules on explosives can add another layer. Because DDs are among the most tightly controlled items, confirm both state and federal legality — and consult a specialist — before pursuing one.

Frequently asked questions

Why isn't my 12-gauge shotgun a destructive device?

Although a 12-gauge bore exceeds one-half inch, the ATF recognizes standard shotguns as particularly suitable for sporting purposes, so they are excluded from the destructive device category. Purpose-built large-bore weapons without that recognition can be DDs.

Do I need a tax stamp for each explosive round?

Yes. Each live explosive projectile, such as a 40mm high-explosive grenade, is itself a destructive device requiring separate registration and a $200 tax stamp, which is why most owners use non-explosive ammunition.

Can a regular person own a 40mm launcher?

Yes, where state law allows, by registering it as a destructive device on a Form 4 and paying the $200 tax stamp. Owners typically use non-explosive rounds like flares or chalk markers to avoid registering each explosive projectile.

What FFL types deal in destructive devices?

Type 09 dealers, Type 10 manufacturers, and Type 11 importers handle destructive devices. These specialized licenses are separate from the standard Type 01 dealer license.

Last reviewed 2026-07-07.