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Rhode Island generally prohibits the open carrying of handguns without the appropriate license or permit, except in a residence, place of business or on land owned by the handgun possessor.1 This prohibition does not apply to concealed handgun license holders.

The open carrying of long guns is generally allowed in Rhode Island, although legislation enacted in 2022 makes it unlawful to possess a loaded rifle or shotgun on public roads or trails (or in vehicles on public roads), except while engaged in hunting activity.2 This prohibition also applies to a person carrying an unloaded rifle or shotgun while in possession of a loaded firearm magazine.3

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  1. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-8(a).[]
  2. See R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-47-51 and 20-13-8.[]
  3. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-51.[]