KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M -- Kirtland Air Force Base – Privately Owned Firearm Policy
This policy outlines the regulations regarding firearms and dangerous weapons on Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB). It is based on KAFB BDP 31-101, dated March 11, 2025. All personnel are expected to adhere to these guidelines.
1. Purpose
This policy establishes uniform procedures for:
Arming authorized personnel.
Registering and controlling Privately Owned Firearms (POFs).
Restricting other weapons classified as dangerous to the public.
2. Personnel Authorized to Bear Firearms
The following personnel are authorized to bear firearms under specific conditions:
2.1. Civilian Law Enforcement Personnel: Federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement, DOE, NNSA OST credentialed agents, and credentialed agents of Defense Criminal Investigative Organizations (e.g., OSI) are authorized to carry concealed firearms while performing official duties.
2.2. KAFB Personnel (Authorized to Bear and Use Firearms - Concealed Carry Restrictions): The following KAFB personnel are NOT authorized to carry a concealed weapon unless in performance of official duties and authorized in writing by the DFC:
2.2.1. 377th Civil Engineer Division, Explosive Ordnance Branch personnel assigned to escort munitions and explosives.
2.2.2. AFRL, Civil Engineer Research Division personnel assigned to escort munitions off-base.
2.2.3. SNL security guard force personnel on official business and patrolling their designated area.
2.2.4. 150 SOW personnel in Group A and B status, and when performing official duties for the Federal Government or the State of New Mexico.
2.2.5. 58th Special Operations Wing, Armament Flight (58 MXS/MXMR), weapons service guns section personnel assigned to escort weapons and munitions to and from aircraft and the weapons storage area (WSA).
2.2.6. United States Marine Corps (USMC) Reserve personnel assigned to escort firearms to and from base entry gates to the USMC firearms storage area.
2.2.7. 351 SWTS cadre while transporting and protecting very high-risk and high-risk weapons, explosives, and munitions to and from aircraft, WSAs, explosives and munitions storage areas, and training areas (both on and off-base).
2.2.8. KAFB Honor Guard as required for the escort of ceremonial weapons.
2.2.9. 898 MUNS maintains qualified personnel for PL escort/site final denial.
2.2.10. 377 SFG, 377 SFS, 377 WSSS qualified personnel.
3. Privately Owned Firearms (POF) and Dangerous Weapons
Definition of Firearm: As defined by the Gun Control Act of 1968, 18 U.S.C., Section 921(a)(3), a firearm is any weapon (including a starter gun) that will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.
Definition of Dangerous Weapon on KAFB: Any firearm, other weapons that fire a projectile (including air rifles, BB guns, paintball guns, etc.), martial arts weapons (nun chucks, stars, swords, etc.), bows and cross bows, knives with fixed blades more than three inches, or any switchblade knife.
Age Restriction: In accordance with New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA), Chapter 30, Article 7, Section 30-7-2.2, it is unlawful for a person under the age of 21 to possess or purchase a handgun.
3.1. Restrictions on Open and Concealed Carry: With the exception of personnel identified in Paragraph 2, open and concealed carry of POFs is not authorized on Kirtland AFB. This includes both active (926B) and retired/separated (926C) LEOSA holders. Violators may be prosecuted under the UCMJ/applicable Federal Statute or face other administrative action.
3.1.1. POFs are not authorized for use (discharged or fired) on KAFB.
3.2. POF Storage and Registration Requirements
3.2.1. Kirtland Family Housing/Maxwell Housing/Fam Camp:
3.2.1.1. All personnel residing in Kirtland Family Housing, including Maxwell Housing and Fam Camp, must register their POFs with the 377 SFS Armory within 10 business days of occupying the quarters or purchasing a weapon. A lease or receipt is required as proof. Weapons must be stored to deter theft and prevent improper use, especially by children (weapon safe/trigger locks/etc.). Non-compliance may result in prosecution or administrative action.
3.2.1.1.1. DoD personnel (Active Duty, civilians, contractors, National Guard/Reserves) must complete AF Form 1314 (Firearm Registration) with firearm details and storage location and submit it to the 377 SFS Armory (Bldg. 20221). Commanders/Directors must ensure personnel read and sign DD Form 2760 (Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition), acknowledging they do not have a disqualifying conviction under the Lautenberg Amendment. Commanders/Directors will maintain the DD Form 2760 and provide a copy to the individual to submit to the 377 SFS Armory with the AF Form 1314.
3.2.1.1.2. Non-DoD personnel and retired military/dependents will complete AF Form 1314 and submit it to the 377 SFS Armory. The DD Form 2760 will be completed by the registrant and provided to the on-duty armorer.
3.2.1.1.3. Non-Base Affiliated Maxwell Housing Residents will complete required paperwork at the Truman VCC, 377 SFS Pass and Registration section (377 SFS/S5B) during normal duty hours.
3.2.1.1.4. Firearms must not be left in vehicles and must be secured in the residence.
3.2.1.1.5. Fully automatic POFs must be stored in the SF Armory or off-installation. Personnel must provide a copy of their ATF Federal Firearms License to the SF Armorer for storage.
3.2.2. Dormitory Residents:
3.2.2.1. Dormitory residents are prohibited from storing firearms or dangerous weapons in their rooms or POVs (see paragraph 3.2.4 for billeting/TLF requirements). They must register and store POFs with the 377 SFS Armory or secure them off-base. Dormitory residents must contact the 377 SFS Armory to confirm storage availability prior to purchasing a firearm. BB guns, pellet guns, paintball guns, and Airsoft guns cannot be stored in the SF Armory and residents must utilize some other authorized option.
3.2.2.2. IAW AFMAN 71-102, Air Force Criminal Indexing, the 377 SFS Armory must conduct Disposition of Firearms (DOF) checks before releasing a firearm. Personnel must submit a request in person to the 377 SFS Armory at least 48 hours before withdrawing the weapon.
3.2.3. Courtesy/Evidence Storage:
3.2.3.1. Courtesy storage of POFs in the SFS Armory may be done for specific reasons: Installation Commander revokes privilege to possess a POF on base (for on-base residents); individual becomes prohibited from possessing a weapon (Lautenberg Amendment/Brady Act); commander orders storage; individual or family member requests storage IAW DoDI 6490.16.
3.2.3.1.1. Security Forces patrols may transport weapons to the armory at the request of the commander or First Sergeant, who must accompany them and release them to the armorer. Security Forces will complete a detailed blotter entry. A DOF check must be accomplished before the weapon can be released.
3.2.3.2. Seizure of POF by Security Forces
3.2.3.2.1. Security Forces patrols responding to incidents where weapons may be present (domestic violence, welfare checks, IEVC’s, etc.) will not seize POF unless probable cause exists the weapon(s) were used in the commission of a crime. Security Forces personnel will consult with SJA before weapons are seized. Security Forces patrols will conduct an NCIC check on all POFs seized as evidence.
3.2.3.3. Weapons seized as evidence will be stored in the Security Forces Investigations (S2I) evidence locker in the SFS Armory. S2I will not take custody of weapons that were not seized as evidence, with the exception of weapons turned in as found property.
3.2.3.4. Prior to releasing a POF seized as evidence or found property to the owner a DOF check must be completed. S2I will provide the evidence disposition letter, approved by SJA, to DAF-CJIC with the DOF request.
3.2.3.5. If the POF cannot be released to the owner based the results of the DOF check, the owner must provide a notarized Power of Attorney to designate another party to retrieve the weapon(s). A DOF check will be accomplished on the designated person.
3.2.4. Billeting and Temporary Lodging Facilities:
3.2.4.1. Personnel staying in Kirtland Lodging for less than 14 days are authorized to store their POF in their billeting quarters. Personnel staying in excess of 14 days will be required to register the firearms IAW section 3.2.1. Guests will be required to meet the following requirements:
3.2.4.1.1. Guests will be required to inform the billeting staff upon check in that they have a firearm. The guest will complete a DD form 2760 which will be kept on file with billeting for the duration of the stay.
3.2.4.1.2. POFs will be stored in the safe located in the room, unloaded, with the ammunition stored separately. POFs that are too large to be secured in the safe will be stored in a locked case, with the ammunition stored separately. Weapons must be stored in such a manner as to deter theft and preclude improper usage, especially by children (weapon safe/trigger locks/ etc.). POF will not be stored in vehicles.
3.2.4.1.3. Fully automatic POFs will be stored in the Security Forces Armory or stored off of the installation. Personnel must provide a copy of their ATF Federal Firearms License to the SF Armorer.
3.3. Transportation of POFs
3.3.1. Transportation is the movement of firearms from one location to another. Transportation is authorized for movement of weapons to and from valid storage locations (Security Forces Armory, base housing, Exchange, etc.).
3.3.2. Transporting Privately Owned Firearms (POF) on KAFB:
3.3.2.1. IAW NMSA Chapter 30, Article 7, Section 30-7-2.A(2). an individual may carry a loaded firearm in a private automobile or other private means of conveyance, for lawful protection of the person’s or another person’s property. As such personnel may transport a POF in this manner directly to/from an off-base location to their place of work, locations to conduct business (MPF, Commissary, etc.), or residence.
3.3.2.2. Upon arrival at the first on-base destination the POF will be placed in a secure gun storage case as defined in 18 USC §921 (34) (c), https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/921, and concealed from public view. The vehicle will remain locked at all times when unattended. If the vehicle cannot be locked the POF must be secured in the Security Forces Armory or removed from the installation. While on the installation, with the exception of the requirements in para 3.3.2.1. the weapon(s) must remain in this configuration when transported between destinations on the installation.
3.3.2.3. The POF may be transported IAW 3.3.2.1. or in an appropriate storage configuration IAW 3.3.2.2. to, from or between places of work, locations to conduct business, residence, billeting, or directly off the installation.
3.3.2.4. Under no circumstances will the weapon enter any building/facility or public area, with the exception of the person’s on-base residence or 377 SFS armory.
3.3.2.5. Purchase of POFs at AAFES facilities. POFs purchased at the Main Exchange will be secured and transported IAW paragraph 3.3.2. In addition AAFES will be required to place a trigger lock or similar device on all POFs before they are released to the customer and provide them information on the transportation, registration, and storage requirements.
3.3.2.6. Personnel who violate the requirements may be prosecuted under the UCMJ/applicable Federal Statute or face other administrative action.
3.3.3. Contact with Law Enforcement or Command Officials. POF owners transporting or carrying POFs on base and stopped for IEVC’s, traffic violations, or for any other reason by law enforcement or command officials (Commanders, First Sergeants, Security Forces, or OSI), with the exception of routine identification checks at Installation Access Control Points, must immediately inform the official that there is a firearm in their vehicle, the location of the firearm, and whether or not it is secured/loaded.
3.3.3.1. 377 SFS personnel will conduct an NCIC check to determine if the individual can legally own/possess the POF.
3.4. Withdrawal of POF Privileges
IAW DAFI 31-117, Arming and Use of Force by Air Force Personnel, all commanders must continually monitor personnel for suitability to bear firearms, evaluate available information and if necessary, take immediate action to temporarily withdraw the affected person's authority to bear a firearm. If warranted, commanders must also deny the person access to any government-owned or privately owned firearm and associated ammunition stored in a government firearm storage facility.
3.4.1. Commanders/Directors for DoD Personnel, directors/supervisors and non-DoD Federal government agencies/contractors may determine it necessary to withdraw an individual’s privilege to transport or store POFs on the installation. The 377 SFS/CC, 377 SFG/CC or Installation Commander may withdraw this privilege for all base personnel including retirees, dependents, and non-base affiliated Maxwell Housing residents. The following are reasons for withdraw, this list is not all inclusive:
3.4.1.1. Qualification for a federal prohibition below permanently prohibits the individual from the possession and/or purchase of any firearms, ammunitions, or explosives.
3.4.1.1.1. Persons who are convicted in a civilian court of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year (or a misdemeanor crime punishable by imprisonment over two years), or who have been convicted in General Court Martial of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
3.4.1.1.2. Persons who are fugitives from justice. Includes deserters who flee to avoid prosecution or to evade participation in judicial proceedings (attach DD Form 553). Must have fled across state lines to qualify.
3.4.1.1.3. Persons who are adjudicated as a mental defective or who have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution by a civilian court, board, commission or other lawful authority (excludes military-directed mental health observation and voluntary admissions to mental health facilities).
3.4.1.1.4. Persons who are discharged or dismissed from the US Armed Forces under a dishonorable discharge/dismissal characterization.
3.4.1.1.5. Persons who, having been citizens of the United States, have renounced their US citizenship.
3.4.1.1.6. Persons who are aliens and illegally or unlawfully in the United States.
3.4.1.1.7. Persons who are convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
3.4.1.2. Qualification for a federal prohibition below temporarily prohibits the individual from possession and/or purchase of any firearm, ammunition, or explosive
3.4.1.2.1. Persons who are subject to a qualifying civilian protection/restraining order (CPO). (Note: A military protection order DOES NOT qualify for this prohibition). Date of expiration must match the date of expiration on the corresponding CPO, and a copy of the CPO must be attached to this form.
3.4.1.2.2. Persons whose urinalysis test is positive for drugs not medically authorized/explained by the Medical Review Officer. Date of expiration is one year from the date of collection of the positive urinalysis.
3.4.1.2.3. Persons who make an admission of recent drug use to a law enforcement officer. Recent drug use is defined as use within the past year. Date of expiration is one year from the date of last admitted use.
3.4.1.2.4. Persons who are found in possession of a controlled substance, confirmed by field or laboratory test and not medically authorized. NOTE: CBD and marijuana "prescriptions" are not recognized under federal law. Date of expiration is one year from the date of possession.
3.4.1.2.5. Persons who, for any drug offense, are criminally convicted at Special Court Martial, found guilty at Summary Court Martial, receive nonjudicial punishment, or are administratively discharged/dismissed in lieu of Court Martial. Date of expiration is one year from date of conviction or date other listed action is completed.
3.4.1.2.6. Persons who make an admission of possession of a controlled substance to a law enforcement officer. Date of expiration is one year from the date of last admitted possession.
3.4.1.2.7. Commanders/Directors may temporarily withdraw authority for individual who exhibit violent, threatening, or otherwise concerning behavior that may threaten the safety/security of installation personnel or resources. This action will be coordinated with the 377 SFS/CC and SJA.
3.4.1.3. The AF Form 177, Notice of Qualification for Prohibition of Firearms, Ammunition, and Explosives, will be used to document and notify the individual of the decision to withdraw their privilege. A copy will be provided to the individual. The original will be sent to the 377 SFS/ Reports and Analysis Section (377 SFS/S2R) for processing. Additional documents may be requested by 377 SFS/S2R.
3.4.1.4. Servicing armories will take appropriate action to ensure any government-owned, or privately owned firearm and associated ammunition, is not issued to a person whose authority has been withdrawn.
3.4.1.5. Personnel whose privileges are revoked will be identified in DBIDS.
3.4.1.6. Final disposition of the affected member’s property. The property owner will be required to appoint an individual, via power of attorney, not affected by the Gun Control Act/Lautenberg Amendment before the weapon/ammunition can be released from the servicing armory. Servicing armories will maintain a copy of the power of attorney with other required paperwork associated with the transfer from the armory. The Commander/Director must brief the affected member that the weapon must be disposed of IAW the Gun Control Act/Lautenberg Amendment via memorandum
3.5. Prohibited Areas
3.5.1. POFs will not be taken into any federal facility on the installation. Facility Managers will coordinate with the 377 MSG/CE to sufficient signs for posting on their facilities.
3.6. Other Considerations
3.6.1. Pellet/BB guns are authorized on KAFB, but can only be fired at a 377 ABW Safety Office-approved range (if available). Family members under 18 years of age must be supervised at all times while on the range by either a parent or an adult 18 years or older. Shooters must fire their weapons from the firing line to a target placed down range and must observe all safety rules. 377 SFS Armory does not store these types of POF, dorm residents must utilize some other authorized option.
3.6.2 Paintball guns are not authorized for use on KAFB unless specifically approved by the 377 ABW/CC. Airsoft weapons are not authorized for use in any populated area (housing, dormitory etc.). 377 SFS Armory does not store these types of POF, dorm residents must utilize some other authorized option.
3.6.3. Installation firearms policy will be briefed to all installation personnel. The policy will be provided to all mission partners who will be responsible for disseminating the information to their assigned personnel. In addition the policy will be briefed at base newcomer’s briefings, provided by Kirtland Family Housing to new base residence, provided by dorm leaders to all dorm occupants, and provided to visitors at the VCC and Commercial Vehicle Gate.
The ongoing reviews of the POF policy represents Kirtland's commitment to creating a secure environment for everyone on the installation. The base aims to reinforce its security posture and prioritize the well-being of its personnel and visitors. All individuals affiliated with Kirtland are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the POF policy.
For any inquiries about the POF policy, kindly refer to the website of the 377th Security Forces Group. Alternatively, you can reach out to them via email at 377sfs.s1.css@us.af.mil or by phone at 505-846-5511.