Owning a firearm is a significant responsibility that requires an understanding of the laws that grant its possession and use. Navigating the complex rules of gun laws can be challenging, but as a responsible gun owner, staying informed is crucial. Whether you're an experienced firearm enthusiast or a first-time buyer, here’s what you need to know about gun laws to ensure you remain compliant and safe.

Federal vs. State Laws

Gun laws in the United States are governed by both federal and state regulations. Federal laws provide a baseline that all states must follow, but individual states have the authority to implement additional rules and regulations. This means that the rules of certain firearms and the requirements for owning them can vary from state to state.

Federal Laws

The primary federal laws regulating firearms include:

• The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA): This law regulates interstate commerce in firearms by generally prohibiting interstate firearms transfers except among licensed manufacturers, dealers, and importers. It also sets the minimum age for purchasing handguns and long guns.

• The National Firearms Act (NFA): Enacted in 1934, the NFA regulates the ownership of certain firearms, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, suppressors, and destructive devices.

• The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act: This act mandates background checks for firearm purchasers through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), conducted by the FBI.

State Laws

State laws can include additional restrictions such as:

• Permit Requirements: Some states require permits to purchase firearms, while others do not. There can also be different permits for carrying a firearm openly or concealed.
• Waiting Periods: Several states impose waiting periods between the purchase and delivery of a firearm.
• Assault Weapon Bans: Certain states have bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
• Storage Requirements: States may have laws about how firearms must be stored, particularly if minors are in the home.
• Concealed Carry and Open Carry: Carrying a firearm in public, whether concealed or openly, is subject to specific regulations. These laws vary widely from state to state. Some states require permits for concealed carry, while others have "constitutional carry" laws that do not require a permit. Open carry laws allow individuals to carry a firearm openly. Some states permit open carry without a license, while others require a permit. It is incredibly important to be aware of individual business policies, as some do not allow firearms within the establishment.

Understanding Your Responsibilities

As a gun owner, it’s essential to stay updated on the laws in your state and any state you may travel to with your firearm. To remain compliant anywhere you go, you must regularly review state and federal laws. Laws are subject to change, so it is helpful to review them periodically. It could also be beneficial to take a gun safety course to absorb the valuable knowledge about safely handling firearms. If you have children, it is necessary to safely secure your firearms to prevent accidents. Guns are weapons so they must be treated as such, so investing in a safe could be a great solution.

Understanding and complying with gun laws is a fundamental aspect of responsible gun ownership. By staying informed and adhering to both federal and state regulations, you can ensure that you are exercising your rights safely and legally. Want to learn more about how to choose the right firearm for you? Contact us today!