What Guns Can I Buy at 18 in Washington State?
As an 18-year-old resident of Washington state, you may be wondering what types of firearms you can purchase legally. In Washington state, the minimum age to purchase a firearm is 18 years old, but there are certain restrictions and requirements you must meet before making a purchase. In this article, we will explore the types of guns you can buy at 18 in Washington state and the laws surrounding firearms in the state.
What Types of Firearms Can I Buy at 18?
In Washington state, you can purchase the following types of firearms at 18 years old:
- Rimfire rifles and shotguns: These are the most common types of firearms that can be purchased by 18-year-olds. Rimfire rifles and shotguns are designed for hunting and recreational shooting and are typically less powerful than centerfire rifles.
- Muzzleloaders: Muzzleloaders are a type of firearm that uses a charge of black powder to propel a lead ball or bullet. They are often used for hunting and can be purchased by 18-year-olds.
- Air rifles: Air rifles are powered by compressed air and are designed for target shooting and hunting small game. They are typically less powerful than traditional firearms and can be purchased by 18-year-olds.
What Types of Firearms Can I Not Buy at 18?
In Washington state, you cannot purchase the following types of firearms at 18 years old:
- Centerfire rifles and handguns: Centerfire rifles and handguns are more powerful than rimfire rifles and shotguns and are typically used for hunting larger game. You must be at least 21 years old to purchase these types of firearms in Washington state.
- Assault weapons: Assault weapons are a type of firearm that is designed to look like a military weapon and is often used for target shooting and hunting. They are banned in Washington state, and you cannot purchase them at any age.
- Short-barreled shotguns: Short-barreled shotguns are a type of firearm that is designed for close-range shooting and is often used for hunting and self-defense. They are banned in Washington state, and you cannot purchase them at any age.
Laws and Regulations
In Washington state, there are several laws and regulations that you must follow when purchasing and owning a firearm:
- Background check: You must undergo a background check before purchasing a firearm in Washington state. This check is conducted by the Washington State Patrol and is designed to ensure that you are not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal record or other factors.
- Permit required: You must have a permit to purchase a firearm in Washington state. This permit is issued by the Washington State Patrol and is valid for a period of 30 days.
- Storage and transportation: You must store and transport your firearm in a safe and secure manner. This includes keeping your firearm unloaded and stored in a locked container when not in use.
- Registration: You must register your firearm with the Washington State Patrol within 60 days of purchasing it.
Table: Types of Firearms and Age Restrictions
| Type of Firearm | Age Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rimfire rifles and shotguns | 18 |
| Muzzleloaders | 18 |
| Air rifles | 18 |
| Centerfire rifles and handguns | 21 |
| Assault weapons | Not available |
| Short-barreled shotguns | Not available |
Conclusion
In Washington state, you can purchase certain types of firearms at 18 years old, including rimfire rifles and shotguns, muzzleloaders, and air rifles. However, there are certain types of firearms that you cannot purchase at 18, including centerfire rifles and handguns, assault weapons, and short-barreled shotguns. It is important to follow the laws and regulations surrounding firearms in Washington state, including undergoing a background check, obtaining a permit, storing and transporting your firearm safely, and registering your firearm with the Washington State Patrol.
