What Guns Can You Buy at 18 in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is one of the gun-friendly states in the US, with relatively lenient laws when it comes to gun ownership. If you’re 18 years old and a resident of Oklahoma, you’re considered eligible to purchase certain firearms in the state. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines you need to be aware of before making a purchase.
Federal Versus State Laws
Federal law prohibits the sale or transfer of firearms to minors under the age of 18, with some exceptions. However, Oklahoma law allows 18-year-olds to purchase certain firearms. The key difference lies in the type of firearms they can buy.
Summary of Oklahoma’s Gun Laws
Here’s a quick summary of Oklahoma’s gun laws:
- Ages 18-21: Can purchase long guns (rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders) and handguns if they meet the requirements of federal law.
- Ages 21+: Can purchase any type of firearm, including handguns and assault weapons.
- Background Checks: Required for all firearm purchases.
- Permits: May be required for certain firearms or types of permits may be required for concealed carry.
Guns That Can Be Purchased by 18-Year-Olds in Oklahoma
Assuming you’re 18 years old and a resident of Oklahoma, here are some guns you can potentially purchase:
Long Guns
- Rifles: Most types of rifles, including hunting and sporting rifles, are eligible for purchase by 18-year-olds.
- Shotguns: Pump-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action shotguns can be purchased by 18-year-olds.
- Muzzleloaders: Black powder rifles and other muzzleloaders are typically exempt from federal restrictions.
Handguns
- Non-Firearms Restricted Handguns: While federal law prohibits the sale of handguns to minors under 21, Oklahoma allows 18-year-olds to purchase non-firearms-restricted handguns. These guns typically have a fixed, non-removable cylinder or are incapable of removing the cylinder without disassembling the entire firearm.
- Handguns Subject to the National Firearms Act (NFA): Examples of NFA-regulated handguns include fully automatic guns, silencers, and certain types of machine guns. These are generally only available for purchase by law enforcement or through a license process.
Assault Weapons
- Armalite Rifle (AR-15): Generally, 18-year-olds can purchase an AR-15, but some limitations apply. The gun must be purchased through a federal firearms licensee (FFL) and the buyer must pass a background check.
- Other Assault Weapons: Semi-automatic rifles and shotguns are typically available for purchase by 18-year-olds. However, certain models, such as those with automatic features or collapsible stocks, may be restricted or require additional permits.
Table: Summary of Handgun Restrictions
| Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Non-Firearms-Restricted Handguns | 18+ |
| Handguns Subject to NFA | 21+, licensed dealers, or NFA trust |
| Other Assault Weapons | 18+, some restrictions may apply |
Additional Requirements
Before purchasing a gun at 18 in Oklahoma, make sure you:
- Meet the Background Check Requirements: You’ll need to pass a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
- Show Proof of Age: You’ll need to present valid identification, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID, to prove your age.
- Complete the Necessary Forms: You’ll need to fill out the required form 4473, Report of Firearms Transaction, provided by the FFL dealer.
Conclusion
If you’re 18 and a resident of Oklahoma, you have the opportunity to purchase certain firearms, subject to federal and state laws. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Oklahoma’s gun laws and the types of firearms you can purchase to ensure a smooth and lawful transaction. Always follow responsible gun ownership practices and abide by local laws and regulations to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
