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Who Needs Colorado SSF Training | Exempt Firearms & Requirements

ByRick Sindeband

Who Needs Colorado SSF Training — And Who Does NOT?

One of the biggest questions about Colorado’s new firearms safety law is simple:

Will YOU need the training?

Not every firearm owner is affected.

Not every firearm is included.

This page explains what is currently understood.

Who needs Colorado SSF training graphic showing affected firearm owners, exemptions, AR pattern rifles, and exempt firearm categories under Colorado firearms safety rules
Overview of who may need Colorado SSF training, possible exemptions, affected firearms, and ownership considerations under the August 1, 2026 program.

Colorado’s Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF) program begins August 1, 2026 and applies to certain future purchases and transfers.

Many people immediately ask:

  • Does this affect my AR?
  • What about my Glock?
  • What if I already own one?
  • Do hunting guns count?
  • Do I need training?

For a complete overview see:

Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearm Program

 

People Likely To Need Training

Current guidance indicates training may apply to people purchasing or transferring qualifying firearms after August 1, 2026.

Examples may include future purchasers of:

  • AR pattern rifles
  • AK pattern rifles
  • AKM pattern rifles
  • Certain detachable magazine semiautomatic rifles
  • Certain gas-operated semiautomatic handguns with detachable magazines

Always verify official state classifications.

People Who May NOT Need Training

Current understanding suggests these groups may not be affected:

  • Existing owners possessing qualifying firearms before August 1, 2026
  • People purchasing exempt firearms
  • Buyers of manually operated firearms

Firearms Expected To Remain Exempt

  • Most bolt action rifles
  • Pump action firearms
  • Lever action firearms
  • Slide action firearms
  • Many hunting shotguns
  • Many rimfire firearms
  • Certain recoil-operated handguns
  • Antique firearms
  • Curio and relic firearms

Final classifications should always be verified.

Common Examples

I own an AR now. Do I need training?

Current guidance indicates existing owners before August 1, 2026 are not affected.

I want to buy an AR after August 1, 2026.

Training requirements may apply.

I have a hunting shotgun.

Many hunting shotguns appear exempt.

I own a bolt action rifle.

Bolt action firearms are generally expected to remain outside the program.

I have Hunter Education.

You may qualify for the shorter 4 hour pathway.

See:

Colorado 4 Hour vs 12 Hour Firearms Safety Course

 

Official Resources

See official program updates at:

Colorado Parks and Wildlife SSF Program

 

Colorado Firearms Safety Courses Coming Soon

Have Gun Will Train Colorado has obtained instructor certification for Colorado firearms safety training.

Training schedules will be added as implementation continues.

Rick Sindeband

Have Gun Will Train Colorado

719-821-3958

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