![]() In these places, you may or may not receive a permit if you apply for one. ![]() "Shall-issue" jurisdictions are those in which the sheriff or other relevant authority will issue CCW permits to anyone who applies for one, barring those who fail to meet basic eligibility criteria. Note that a CCW permit doesn't override property rights business owners are free to prohibit weapons on their property for any reason, if they so choose. Obtaining a CCW license allows you to carry in those places as well, with the owner's consent. For instance, in Arizona, you may carry anywhere without a permit, except in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol. However, obtaining a license may confer additional privileges. If you can legally own the handgun, you can legally conceal it in public, no license or permit required. This is the most permissive concealed carry paradigm. Also, be sure to read our guide on how to choose a concealed carry handgun for more information. If you plan to buy a handgun for concealed carry, know that there are a few different sets of laws that vary by state. Although it is legal to carry a handgun in such places in very limited circumstances, for most people, it's effectively illegal.īe sure to acquire any licenses or permits you'll need before you go shopping for your first handgun. Some state laws further distinguish between open and concealed carry, and may require licensing for one but not the other.Ī small number of states (notably New York and California) will not issue permits to carry a handgun in public unless you can show proof of a credible threat against your life or property. Few states require licensing or training in order merely to own a handgun, although most require some form of license or permit in order to carry one in public. Also, there is no federal age restriction regarding rifle or shotgun ownership.)įederal firearm laws don't mandate any particular licensing or training, although many state laws do. Not have undergone treatment for drug or alcohol addiction within the last five yearsīe at least 18 if buying from a private seller or 21 if buying from a licensed dealer (note that in most (if not all) states, the minimum age to carry a handgun in public is 21. Not suffer from certain mental illnesses that may impair your judgment Pass a strict background check (if you're buying a gun from a licensed firearm dealer private sellers are not required to conduct background checks on buyers, but most do anyway) Not have a criminal record, with certain limited exceptions In order to buy a handgun legally, you must: They can help you ensure that you understand the law, and most will provide concise pamphlets or web pages that you can reference later.Ĭertain federal laws are pretty basic and apply to all gun owners in all states. Finally, we recommend checking with your local police department or sheriff's office. Internet research is a good place to start, but it's best to cross-reference everything you find against several other sources to ensure the information is accurate. The first step in becoming a responsible handgun owner is to become thoroughly familiar with these laws. In cases where laws from different jurisdictions contradict one another, the stricter law applies. If you live in the U.S., you need to know and abide by federal, state and county firearm laws. If you take some time to get really clear on why you want a handgun and what you want it to do for you, the research and shopping phases will be more productive and enjoyable, and you'll be more satisfied with your purchase in the long run. Hunting handguns are generally heavy, large-caliber revolvers that require confidence and expertise to handle correctly. Sporting handguns are usually small-caliber, affordable and mechanically simple, although organized shooting sport leagues can require all manner of handguns. Self-defense handguns typically have good stopping power (more on calibers a bit later), streamlined controls and either a high capacity or good concealability. ![]() ![]() Most handguns are designed primarily for one of these uses, and if you buy one ill-suited to your needs, you'll likely have a disappointing experience. The first question you need to answer is "Why do I want a handgun?" Most people have one of three answers: for self-defense, for recreational shooting or for hunting. ![]() Shop Shooting Gear Why Do You Want a Handgun? ![]()
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