NC H456

Requires a permit from the county sheriff to purchase or receive pistols, assault weapons, or long guns in North Carolina, with limited exceptions for those holding valid concealed handgun permits.

Defines "assault weapon" to include selective-fire firearms, specific semiautomatic rifle and pistol models (AR-15, AK-47 variants, etc.), and any semiautomatic firearm meeting criteria such as detachable magazines, folding stocks, pistol grips, or flash suppressors.

Defines "long guns" as shotguns or rifles that are not antique firearms or assault weapons, requiring the same permit process.

Permits issued by sheriffs expire five years from issuance and must be obtained through criminal background checks and good moral character verification, with standard statewide form created by the State Bureau of Investigation.

Becomes effective December 1, 2019, and applies to all sales, transfers, purchases, or receipts of covered firearms on or after that date.