Can I Buy a Gun in Arizona?
Arizona is known for its lax gun laws, making it relatively easy for residents and non-residents to purchase firearms. However, before you start shopping for a gun, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership in the state.
Eligibility to Buy a Gun in Arizona
To buy a gun in Arizona, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or long gun. For shotguns and rifles, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: You do not need to be a resident of Arizona to purchase a gun, but you must provide a valid identification and proof of residency.
• Background Check: You must undergo a background check through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• No Felony Convictions: You cannot purchase a gun if you have a felony conviction or have been convicted of a domestic violence offense.
• No Mental Health Issues: You cannot purchase a gun if you have a mental health issue that prevents you from possessing a firearm, as determined by a court or a licensed medical professional.
Types of Guns You Can Buy in Arizona
Arizona allows the sale and possession of various types of firearms, including:
• Handguns: You can purchase handguns, including semi-automatic pistols and revolvers.
• Rifles: You can purchase rifles, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action rifles.
• Shotguns: You can purchase shotguns, including pump-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action shotguns.
• Muzzleloaders: You can purchase muzzleloaders, which are firearms that use black powder and a lead ball or other projectiles.
How to Buy a Gun in Arizona
To buy a gun in Arizona, follow these steps:
- Find a Licensed Dealer: Look for a licensed firearms dealer in your area. You can search online or check with local gun shops.
- Provide Identification: Provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Fill Out the Form: Fill out the Federal Form 4473, which is the standard form used for all firearms purchases in the United States.
- Pass the Background Check: The dealer will conduct a background check through the Arizona DPS or FBI.
- Pay the Fees: Pay the dealer’s fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $50.
- Take Possession: Once the background check is complete and you have passed the check, you can take possession of the gun.
Additional Requirements and Restrictions
In addition to the eligibility criteria and types of guns you can buy, there are some additional requirements and restrictions to consider:
• Permit Required: You may need a permit to carry a concealed weapon in Arizona. The permit is issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and requires a background check and a firearms safety course.
• Magazine Capacity: There is no limit on magazine capacity for rifles and shotguns, but there is a 10-round limit for handguns.
• Assault Weapons: Arizona does not have a ban on assault weapons, but there are some restrictions on the sale and possession of certain semi-automatic rifles.
• Red Flag Law: Arizona has a red flag law, which allows law enforcement to temporarily confiscate guns from individuals who are deemed to be a risk to themselves or others.
Conclusion
Buying a gun in Arizona is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership in the state. By meeting the eligibility criteria, purchasing from a licensed dealer, and following the additional requirements and restrictions, you can legally buy a gun in Arizona. Remember to always follow safe handling and storage practices to ensure the safe ownership and use of your firearm.
