I'm moving back to the PRNJ from VA due to work, and I'm not sure if my Ruger 10 22 with a strikeforce folding stock is legal. I have 10 round magazines instead of the typical 30, and it lacks a flash hider. Will I be able to keep my plinker in its current configuration (specifically referring to the stock)?

A semi-automatic firearm should be considered to be "substantially identical", that is, identical in all material respects,to a named assault weapon if it meets the below listed criteria:

A semi-automatic rifle that has the ability to accept a detachable magazine and has at least 2 of the following:

1. a folding stock or telescoping stock
2. a pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon
3. a bayonet mount
4. a flash suppressor or threaded barrel designed to accommodate a flash suppressor
5. a grenade launcher

Allow me to clarify:

Perfectly legal NJ rifle:


Dangerous, illegal assault firearm:

So sad but true

Someone will correct me if I'm wrong. I think if you keep the folding stock you can make the firearm illegal. You are breaking the law.

If they every searched your house, the argument could be made. However, if the stock was in a box in the basement, it would be hard to argue that they components could be readily assembled.

ETA: Damn spellchecker!