Starting level and typical ranges
These ranges use the starting level alone, before any adjustments, for someone with no criminal record unless the column says otherwise. Most real cases add levels.
| Starting point | Level | Trial | Guilty plea | Plea + zero-point | Category IV, plea |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explosives recordkeeping violation, the starting point | 6 | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 2–8 months |
Important details
- If the recordkeeping offense was an effort to hide a real explosives offense, the explosives guideline (§2K1.3) applies instead (§2K1.6(b)(1)).
- This guideline covers only licensed explosives businesses.
- The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the base offense level for explosives dealer recordkeeping?
The guideline for explosives dealer recordkeeping is §2K1.6 of the federal Sentencing Guidelines. Its starting level is 6, before any adjustments.
What is the guideline range for explosives dealer recordkeeping with no criminal history points and a guilty plea?
Using the starting level alone, a person with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 0–6 months, including the 2-level zero-point reduction. Adjustments such as role in the offense or obstruction can change the level, and the judge can sentence outside the range.
Is probation possible for explosives dealer recordkeeping?
The guidelines allow it at the starting level: with a guilty plea and the zero-point reduction the range begins at 0 months (Zone A), so prison is not required, unless the offense is a Class A or B felony or the statute rules probation out (§5B1.1(b)). Added facts can raise the range out of Zone A.
Is the calculator accurate for explosives dealer recordkeeping?
It follows §2K1.6 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.
Related offenses
- Firearms Offenses (Felon in Possession)Illegally had, bought, sold or moved guns or ammunitionVerified
- Using a Gun During a Crime (§924(c))Used or carried a gun or explosive during another crimeVerified
- Gun in a Federal Building or School ZoneHad a gun or dangerous weapon in a federal building or school zoneVerified
- Body Armor Possession by a Violent FelonHad body armor after a violent felony convictionVerified
- Mailing Dangerous ArticlesMailed something dangerous meaning to hurt someone or damage propertyVerified
- Explosives Storage and Reporting ViolationsDid not report stolen explosives, or stored explosives improperlyVerified
- Illegal Possession of ExplosivesIllegally had, moved, bought or sold explosivesVerified
- ArsonSet a fire or used explosives to damage propertyVerified