What Guns Can I Buy at 18 in MN?
In Minnesota, the minimum age to purchase a firearm is 18 years old. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that apply to the purchase of certain types of firearms. As an 18-year-old in Minnesota, you can purchase certain types of firearms, but you may not be able to buy all types of guns. Here’s a breakdown of what you can and cannot buy at 18 in MN.
What Guns Can I Buy at 18 in MN?
At 18, you can purchase the following types of firearms in Minnesota:
• Rimfire firearms: These are firearms that fire rimfire cartridges, such as.22 caliber rifles and pistols. These firearms are generally considered to be less powerful than other types of firearms and are often used for target shooting and hunting small game.
• Shotguns: You can purchase shotguns with a barrel length of 18 inches or longer and a overall length of 26 inches or longer. These shotguns are often used for hunting and sport shooting.
• Muzzleloaders: Muzzleloaders are firearms that are loaded by pouring a charge of black powder and a lead ball or bullet down the barrel. These firearms are often used for hunting and target shooting.
What Guns Can I Not Buy at 18 in MN?
At 18, you cannot purchase the following types of firearms in Minnesota:
• Handguns: Handguns are firearms that are designed to be held and fired with one hand. These firearms are often used for self-defense and are considered to be more powerful than rimfire firearms.
• Centerfire firearms: Centerfire firearms are firearms that fire centerfire cartridges, such as.30-06 caliber rifles and pistols. These firearms are generally considered to be more powerful than rimfire firearms and are often used for hunting larger game and target shooting.
• Assault weapons: Assault weapons are firearms that are designed to resemble military-style firearms and are often equipped with features such as collapsible stocks and flash suppressors. These firearms are often used for sport shooting and are considered to be more powerful than other types of firearms.
Other Requirements and Restrictions
In addition to the age requirements, there are other requirements and restrictions that apply to the purchase of firearms in Minnesota:
• Background check: All firearms purchases in Minnesota are subject to a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check is designed to ensure that the buyer is not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal record or other factors.
• Waiting period: In Minnesota, there is a 24-hour waiting period for the purchase of a firearm. This waiting period is designed to give the buyer time to consider their purchase and to ensure that the buyer is not buying a firearm for someone else.
• ID requirement: To purchase a firearm in Minnesota, you must provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
Table: Firearms You Can and Cannot Buy at 18 in MN
| Type of Firearm | Can I Buy at 18? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rimfire firearms | Yes | These are firearms that fire rimfire cartridges, such as.22 caliber rifles and pistols. |
| Shotguns | Yes | You can purchase shotguns with a barrel length of 18 inches or longer and a overall length of 26 inches or longer. |
| Muzzleloaders | Yes | Muzzleloaders are firearms that are loaded by pouring a charge of black powder and a lead ball or bullet down the barrel. |
| Handguns | No | Handguns are firearms that are designed to be held and fired with one hand. |
| Centerfire firearms | No | Centerfire firearms are firearms that fire centerfire cartridges, such as.30-06 caliber rifles and pistols. |
| Assault weapons | No | Assault weapons are firearms that are designed to resemble military-style firearms and are often equipped with features such as collapsible stocks and flash suppressors. |
Conclusion
In Minnesota, 18-year-olds can purchase certain types of firearms, including rimfire firearms, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that apply to the purchase of these firearms, including a background check, waiting period, and ID requirement. It’s important to note that there are also certain types of firearms that are prohibited for purchase at 18, including handguns, centerfire firearms, and assault weapons.
