Expert: Dean Speir - 10/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: I been trying to find a answer for this all over the net. My question is can a eightteen year old own a handgun? If so how would a go about making the purchase. I live in ohio.

ANSWER: Hi, Richard...

In many jurisdictions an 18-year-old may possess a handgun, but may NOT purchase one from a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer (FFL) until they have achieved their majority (21-years-old).

But check with the laws of your own state to make sure that there is no local more restrictive statute governing this.

What usually happens is that a father will buy one for the son, or the under-21 son will acquire one in a private transaction.


G'luck to you.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you i just want to make shore i'm understanding this correctly. If someone over 21 buy the gun and gives it to me as a gift it legal. What do you mean by private transaction. Do you mean gun shows or things of that nature.

Answer
Careful, now… you're suggesting a "Straw Purchase," and the buyer could wind up in jail and you could wind up a prohibited person as well if you have someone buy a handgun for you since you could not buy it yourself from an FFL.

A legitimate gift from a family member should be legal if you are eligible to otherwise possess a handgun… as I said, check with your state laws.

And by "private transaction," I meant "a transaction not involving a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer."

Again, check with your own state's laws.