# Facebook Marketplace Weapons Policy: Prohibited Items

## Commerce Policies vs. Advertising Standards: Two Separate Documents

If you sell on Facebook Marketplace, there's a structural detail most sellers miss until it costs them: Marketplace listings are governed by the [Commerce Policies](https://www.facebook.com/policies_center/commerce/weapons_ammunition_and_explosives), not the Advertising Standards. These are two entirely separate documents, enforced by separate teams, with different lists of prohibited items.

The Commerce Policies cover all of Facebook's commerce surfaces: Marketplace, buy-and-sell groups, shop pages, and product tagging on Instagram. The Advertising Standards govern paid promotion.

## Prohibited Weapons Items on Facebook Marketplace

### Firearms and Firearm Parts

Firearms — real, replica, or otherwise — are prohibited on Marketplace. The Help Center defines a firearm as any device designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, which includes:

- Rifles, shotguns, machine guns, pistols, and revolvers — regardless of whether they are functional
- Non-functioning firearms, relics, and display pieces
- Firearm frames, receivers, and firing mechanisms
- Firearm parts and conversion kits, including 80% receivers and ghost gun kits
- Silencers, suppressors, and scopes or sights when mounted to a firearm in the listing photo
- Magazines and ammunition-feeding devices

### Ammunition and Ammunition Components

Ammunition in any form is prohibited, including:

- Complete cartridges in any caliber
- Ammunition components: bullets, casings, primers, and gunpowder
- Reloading equipment when listed alongside ammunition components

### Replicas, Airsoft, Paintball, and BB Guns

The Commerce Policies prohibit:

- Paintball guns
- Airsoft guns
- BB guns, pellet guns, and air guns

### Explosives and Fireworks

All explosives are banned:

- Fireworks of any class
- Explosive materials and precursors
- Destructive devices

### Edged Weapons

Facebook's Commerce Policies prohibit "edged weapons including utility, hunting, combat, and self-defense knives." Specifically banned are:

- Switchblades and automatic knives
- Ballistic knives
- Brass knuckles and similar impact weapons
- Swords and machetes marketed as weapons
- Combat knives, throwing knives, and disguised blades

### Other Restricted Weapons and Accessories

Beyond the main categories, the policies also catch:

- Bows and crossbows
- Tasers and stun guns
- Pepper spray (with possible regional exceptions)
- Weapon accessories when they appear attached to a prohibited item in the listing photo

## Gray Areas and Exceptions: What You CAN List

The Commerce Policies allow educational materials about weapons. There are practical exceptions that matter to sellers:

### Kitchen Knives and Everyday Tools

Kitchen knives, pocket knives, and utility blades sold as tools rather than as self-defense or combat implements are typically permitted.

### Antique Firearms — A Common Misconception

Antique firearms manufactured before 1898 are not exempt from Facebook's rules. The platform is stricter than federal law.

### Holsters, Cases, Safes, and Accessories

Weapon accessories generally permitted if they stand alone:

- Holsters, gun cases, and safes can be listed
- Cleaning kits and maintenance tools are allowed
- Empty magazines (sold as accessories, not with ammunition) may pass review

### Pepper Spray and Safety Equipment

Pepper spray is listed under NOT ALLOWED, but enforcement can vary by region.

### When Local Laws Override Marketplace Rules

An item that is legal in your jurisdiction can still be banned by the Commerce Policies.

## Enforcement and Appeals: What Happens When a Listing Gets Flagged

### How Facebook Detects Violations

Facebook uses automated scanning and user reports to enforce its Commerce Policies. Some prohibited listings slip through, and some compliant listings get caught.

### The Enforcement Escalation Ladder

1. **Listing removal**  
2. **Warning**  
3. **Marketplace access restriction**  
4. **Permanent Marketplace ban**

### How to Appeal a Flagged or Removed Listing

If your listing was removed and you believe it complies with the Commerce Policies, you can appeal:

1. Go to your **Support Inbox** or the notification about the removed listing
2. Select **Request Review**
3. Explain why your listing complies
4. Submit supporting evidence

### What Evidence Helps Your Appeal

The strongest appeals include documents, photos, and a clear explanation referencing the specific Commerce Policies language that permits your item.

## FAQ: Facebook Marketplace Weapons Rules

**Can I sell a pocket knife on Facebook Marketplace?**  
Generally yes, if marketed as a tool rather than a weapon.

**Can I sell an antique gun on Marketplace?**  
No. Antique firearms are prohibited.

**What about Nerf guns and toy guns?**  
Toy guns that are unmistakably toys are generally permitted. However, realistic replica toy guns are prohibited.

**How long does a Marketplace restriction last?**  
It varies; a first-time restriction for a minor violation may last 24 hours to a few days.