How to purchase a gun in Utah?

How to Purchase a Gun in Utah

Utah has a relatively relaxed gun law compared to other states, making it an attractive option for gun enthusiasts. If you’re interested in purchasing a gun in Utah, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Before purchasing a gun in Utah, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the state. You must:

• Be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun
• Be at least 18 years old to purchase a rifle or shotgun
• Be a resident of Utah
• Not be under a court order that restrains you from possessing a firearm
• Not be under indictment for a felony
• Not be a fugitive from justice
• Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance
• Not be adjudicated as mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution
• Not have been dishonorably discharged from the military
• Not be an alien who is illegally or unlawfully in the United States

Step 2: Choose a Firearm Dealer

Utah has over 1,000 federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs) throughout the state. You can search for an FFL in your area by visiting the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) website or by contacting the Utah Department of Public Safety. Some popular FFLs in Utah include:

• Utah Gun Exchange
• Smith & Wesson
• Cabela’s
• Bass Pro Shops

Step 3: Choose a Firearm

With your FFL chosen, it’s time to choose the firearm you want to purchase. You can choose from a variety of firearms, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and semiautomatic weapons. Some popular firearms in Utah include:

• Handguns: Glock, Smith & Wesson, Ruger
• Rifles: AR-15, Remington 700, Ruger 10/22
• Shotguns: Remington 870, Mossberg 500, Winchester 1300

Step 4: Fill Out the Background Check Form

Once you’ve chosen your firearm, your FFL will provide you with a background check form (Form 4473). You must fill out the form accurately and truthfully, providing all required information, including:

• Your name and address
• Your date of birth
• Your Social Security number
• Your citizenship status
• Your eligibility to purchase a firearm (check the box indicating that you are not prohibited from possessing a firearm)

Step 5: Conduct a Background Check

Your FFL will conduct a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check will verify your eligibility to purchase a firearm based on the information you provided on the background check form.

Step 6: Complete the Transfer

If your background check is approved, your FFL will complete the transfer by handing over the firearm and providing you with a copy of the Form 4473. You must sign the form to acknowledge receipt of the firearm.

Additional Requirements

In addition to the above steps, you may need to meet additional requirements, such as:

• Utah State Background Check: Some firearms dealers in Utah may conduct an additional state background check, which may require you to provide additional information.
• Fingerprinting: Some firearms dealers may require you to provide fingerprints as part of the background check process.
• Waiting Period: Some counties in Utah may have a waiting period of 24-48 hours before the transfer of a firearm.

Table: Utah Gun Laws

Conclusion

Purchasing a gun in Utah is a relatively straightforward process, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the steps outlined above. Remember to choose a reputable FFL, fill out the background check form accurately, and complete the transfer process to ensure a smooth and successful purchase.