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How to Buy a Firearm: Eligibility and Requirements
In the wake of recent mass shootings, many people are asking how they can buy a firearm. Buying a gun is not as simple as just going to the store and picking one up. There are several eligibility requirements and steps that you must follow to purchase a firearm legally. This article will discuss the basics of purchasing a firearm in the United States. Let’s get to the list.
Who Can Own a Gun?
Not everyone is allowed to own a gun in the United States. There are specific criteria that you must meet to purchase a firearm legally. The first requirement is that you must be at least 21 years of age to buy a handgun from a licensed dealer. You must also be at least 18 years of age to purchase a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer.
Other requirements for purchasing a firearm include not being a fugitive from justice, not being adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution, and not being an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance. Also, you should not be dishonorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces. In addition, you must also not have been convicted of a felony or domestic violence crime or have a restraining order against you.
Types of Guns
There are two main types of guns: handguns and long guns. Handguns are small firearms that can be carried and used with one hand, such as pistols and revolvers. Long guns are larger firearms that require two hands, such as rifles and shotguns.
All these are used for different purposes like sports shooting, hunting, or self-defense. As highlighted by the team behind The Gun Source, It is essential to know what you will be using the gun for before making a purchase. For instance, if you want to go hunting, you will need a different gun than if you want to compete in a shooting match. Also, remember that some states have restrictions on certain types of firearms.
How to Buy a Firearm
You have to follow the right steps and procedures when buying a firearm. The first step is to find a licensed firearms dealer in your area. Reliable dealers partner with renowned suppliers and offer online reviews, testing, and other relevant information on their websites. You can check if the dealer is licensed by asking to see their Federal Firearms License (FFL).
Ensure that the dealer you choose conducts a background check. Licensed dealers are required by law to run a background check on every customer who wants to buy a gun. This is done by submitting your information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The NICS will then approve or deny your purchase based on your criminal history and other factors.
How to Handle a Gun
Once you have purchased a gun, it is essential to learn how to handle it safely. You should always treat a firearm as if it is loaded, even if you know it is not. It would be best if you never point the gun at anything you do not intend to shoot. When handling a gun, keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Also, you need to follow the set storage rules for your gun. You should store your gun in a locked cabinet, safe, or secure location. You should also keep the ammunition in a separate location from the gun. If you have children in your home, it is essential to make sure that the gun is stored safely when traveling or at home and out of their reach.
Purchasing a firearm is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. There are several eligibility requirements and steps that you must follow to buy a gun legally. Be sure to research and consult with experts before making a purchase. Once you have purchased a gun, it is essential to learn how to handle it safely and store it properly. Following these guidelines will help ensure that you can safely enjoy your firearm.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at bloggerjohnsmith12@gmail.com.