Many people incorrectly assume that assault weapons are automatic weapons. Automatic weapons are those that fire more than one bullet per trigger pull. Automatic firearms are legal federally—if you’re 21, not a felon, or otherwise prohibited from owning firearms, pay a $200 tax, and pass an enhanced background check, after which you’ll have to deal with potentially annual ATF scrutiny and onerous restrictions on transporting and storing such weapons. Also, there are states that regulate these weapons beyond what federal law requires, so check all applicable laws for your area.