My question involves criminal law for the state of: According to the Federal Government's definition an air gun does not classify as a firearm. However the State of Maine does. Does Federal law not supersede State law? Can a State legally prosecute a felon for possesion of an air rifle/pellet gun? Given United States Code, Title 15, Section 5001, BB/AIRGUN/PAINTBALL/IMMITATION FIREARM PREEMTION. Section G states "The provisions of this section shall supersede any State or local laws or ordinances which provide for markings or identification inconsistent with provisions of this section provided that no State shall (ii) Prohibit the sale (other than prohibiting the sale to minors) of traditional B-B, paint ball, or pellet-firing air guns that expel a projectile through the force of air pressure. In short I as a convicted felon can walk into any sporting goods store in the State of Maine and purchase an air rifle with no questions asked. So how is it that once I leave the store the State of Maine can prosecute me for possessing a firearm?

