Gun Ownership

I was wondering if anyone knew anything about the requirements to own a gun. Ive never had one of my own, and I couldn't find any info on the net. <-- Strange but true
I saw a Ruger P97 that runs for about $300. I know about the responsibility and such, Im just looking for the technical stuff.
If you have anything to contribute, please do!

Peace,
Brandon

Cougar,

It varies state to state. Your best bet would be to call your local gun shop tomorrow and ask there. Mike and I both own guns and have a concealed weapons permit. We had to take classes both in the nomenclature of guns as well as target practice sessions. All of Mike's kids grew up around guns, they all know how to handle them correctly and have taught their children the same. Our guns stay locked away but accessible to us should we ever need to use them. Most gun purchases take at least 3 days while they run you through central processing to find out if you are a felon or not, but that is when you buy through dealers or at a show.

Thanks for the quick response. I suppose Ill check the local shops then. If you buy it off of a private seller, I guess they don't do any checks or anything.
One last thing. Do you know if they require a guardian/parent to sign anything if Im under the age of 18?

Thanks again,
Brandon

I know that at the gun shows where we sell, I see kids and their parents buying guns all the time. Again, it depends on where you live and the laws of the state about firearms.

Ok, well thanks again.
Ill check it out tommorrow, and think it over.

Later,
Brandon

Brandon, I've owned guns since I was a wee tyke, but I'll have none of them in my house because it's been so long since hubby and I've had any training. One of us is more likely to get hurt. I love shooting my Dad's ERMA, but it's been a while. Hissy is right, talk to a gun shop. There's also laws about crossing state lines, etc....

Brandon, as far as I know you have to be 18 to legally purchase a firearm. Under 18 can use a firearm (under supervision, of course ), but not purchase it. I work with the Colorado Junior Highpower Rifle team, and we have kids as young as 14 competing - but they do not own their own rifles.

Wow, Heidi I didn't know you did that! How cool!! I wish I knew how to shoot a gun, any gun....but I have noone to teach me and I'm a bit afraid to learn.

Debby, go to a local gun store or contact your police department. Knowing how to shoot a gun is a good piece of knowledge to have since they are so prevalent these days. Even just taking a gun safety course is good because then you'll understand how they work.

Originally posted by TTMom
Debby, go to a local gun store or contact your police department. Knowing how to shoot a gun is a good piece of knowledge to have since they are so prevalent these days. Even just taking a gun safety course is good because then you'll understand how they work.

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That goes for all of us (girls especially) because most men don't think women know how to shoot, or will shoot a gun, even in defence of themselves !
I carry one at all times, and buddy , if you don't think I'll shoot you if you attack me, think again !

YOu do have to be 18 to buy/own a firearm. And even the private sellers are supposed to do a check. Especially since 9/11 they have cracked down on this. I saw a show on some busts here in Utah where private sellers were selling bo people without doing checks or registering. May I ask why you want to own a gun?

Originally posted by mzjazz2u
YOu do have to be 18 to buy/own a firearm. And even the private sellers are supposed to do a check.

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That actually varies state to state. Here in Colorado background checks are required at all gun shows, even between private parties. What constitutes a "gun show" is five or more people together with the intention of buying or selling firearms. However, a one on one sale on private property does not require (nor could they possibly police) a background check, although responsible sellers who do not personally know the buyer would probably still get one through a gun shop.

Debby, I have to say that we have a great team! I've actually been involved with the program since I was 16 and a Junior Shooter myself, and now I'm the Team Coordinator and also Captain of the top teams at the National Matches. We always stress safety first, as should always be done with any firearm, no matter what age you're dealing with. But it is a great sport and so much fun!

Originally posted by valanhb
That actually varies state to state. Here in Colorado background checks are required at all gun shows, even between private parties. What constitutes a "gun show" is five or more people together with the intention of buying or selling firearms. However, a one on one sale on private property does not require (nor could they possibly police) a background check, although responsible sellers who do not personally know the buyer would probably still get one through a gun shop.

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I know it varies but Cougar and I are both in Utah. You can still get away without a background check if you can find a shady dealer but you do have to be 18.

Ah- but if you go this route, and you get caught, or god forbid your gun is stolen and used in the commission of a crime, you will be facing felony charges. Not worth it in my book.

Mike and I own guns for several reasons. I used to work for a gun-sight company (Milletts). I learned about guns through them and was on their women's shooting team. I know how to safely handle guns and we have them for protection purposes. Although Mike used to hunt- before he and I hooked up, he no longer does, but we still have the guns. During hunting season in this area, it is not uncommon to drive over to a local fast food restaurant and see a bunch of teenagers packing rifles, in pick-ups with dogs organizing groups getting ready to hunt.

I think your right about Utah Mzjazz. I didn't ask any official gun people, but some friends that are really into it say I have to be 18. I don't hunt. I just want to be trained in using firearms, and as a protection tool. That one specific gun just caught my eye at the moment. Its so light for a .45
I don't think my parents are too crazy about the idea of me owning a gun.
Oh and with regards to shady dealers, I don't want to do anything sneaky and suspicious when dealing with guns. Too much at risk
Thanks for the information everyone. My stepdad is in the military, so I suppose I can ask him about it too. I don't know why I didn't think of that sooner

Anyways, thanks again,

Peace,
Brandon

I'd definitely ask you dad about it. Maybe he would help to get you the proper training etc. Sounds like that would be the way to go! I'm glad to hear you don't want anything to do with the shady dealers! I didn't think you would!

Originally posted by mzjazz2u
! I'm glad to hear you don't want anything to do with the shady dealers!

I didn't think you would!

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Peace,
Brandon