It’s a well-known fact that the United States houses the most heavily armed populace in the world. Our country is one of the few that allows citizens the right to arm themselves, and millions of Americans hold that right dear to their core.
If you’re looking to purchase your own firearm, it’s important that you first understand all the ground rules. Check out a quick look into a few facts regarding gun control in the U.S., and start your search for the perfect weapon today.
The minimum age of ownership
The minimum age of ownership of a firearm depends on what sort of firearms you’re considering purchasing. If you’re at least 18 years old, you are legally allowed to purchase shotguns, rifles, and the ammunition those weapons require.
If you’re looking to purchase a handgun (or any other gun, for that matter), you will need to be at least 21 years old to legally make the buy. State and local governments have the power to raise the minimum age allowed to purchase a firearm, but it will never be lower.
Who is not allowed to purchase a firearm?
There are several reasons a person would be excluded from the privilege of legally owning a firearm. People who are fugitives of the law, people who have been involuntarily kepts in a mental institution, and people who have a felony conviction on their record are typically excluded from purchasing a firearm.
If you have been convicted of a drug offense including the possession or use of a controlled substance, you are legally restricted from purchasing a firearm for a period of at least one year.
Who sets the rules regarding firearms?
The Federal Government has the final say on gun control laws in the United States. The second amendment to the U.S. constitution sets the premise for citizen’s “right to keep and bear arms.”
State and local governments are allowed to set laws and rules regarding the carrying and concealment of a firearm, but the fundamental right to have one is set on the federal level.
Is a background check a requirement?
A background check is a requirement for the purchase of most firearms, but there are some ways to skirt that rule. Research the “gun show loophole” to find a different route for purchasing your gun.
Typically, individuals looking to purchase a gun have to fill out a form called the ATF 4473 that will facilitate a check for any red flags which may exclude an individual from legally purchasing a firearm.
No need to worry about time, though, as the check will only take about ten minutes to get you on to the next step in the process.
