What Guns Can You Buy at 18 in Colorado?
Colorado has relatively relaxed gun laws compared to other states in the United States. In Colorado, you can purchase certain types of firearms at the age of 18, but there are specific restrictions and requirements to be aware of. In this article, we’ll explore what guns you can buy at 18 in Colorado and what you need to know before making a purchase.
What’s the Minimum Age to Buy a Gun in Colorado?
In Colorado, the minimum age to purchase a firearm is 18 years old. However, you must also meet certain other requirements, such as passing a background check and not being prohibited from owning a firearm due to a felony conviction or other legal restrictions.
Types of Guns You Can Buy at 18 in Colorado
There are several types of guns that you can buy at 18 in Colorado. These include:
- Rifles: Rifles are a popular type of firearm in Colorado, and you can buy them at 18 as long as you meet the necessary requirements. Rifles can be used for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense.
- Shotguns: Shotguns are another type of firearm that you can buy at 18 in Colorado. They are often used for hunting and self-defense, and are popular among farmers and ranchers.
- Handguns: Handguns are a type of firearm that you can buy at 18 in Colorado, but there are some specific restrictions. You must pass a background check and meet other requirements before purchasing a handgun.
- Muzzleloaders: Muzzleloaders are a type of firearm that you can buy at 18 in Colorado. They are typically used for hunting and target shooting, and are a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Gun at 18 in Colorado
Before buying a gun at 18 in Colorado, there are several things you should know:
- Background Check: You must pass a background check before purchasing a firearm in Colorado. This check is conducted by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and is designed to ensure that you are not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a felony conviction or other legal restrictions.
- Identification: You must provide valid identification before purchasing a firearm in Colorado. This can include a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
- Age Verification: You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a firearm in Colorado. The seller is required to verify your age before making a sale.
- Fingerprinting: You must provide fingerprints before purchasing a firearm in Colorado. This is typically done at the time of the background check.
- Waiting Period: There is no waiting period for purchasing a firearm in Colorado, but you must wait for the results of the background check before taking possession of the gun.
Table: Comparison of Gun Laws in Colorado
| Type of Gun | Age Requirement | Background Check | Identification | Fingerprinting | Waiting Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rifles | 18 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Shotguns | 18 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Handguns | 21 | Yes | Yes | Yes | 3-5 days |
| Muzzleloaders | 18 | No | Yes | No | No |
Conclusion
In Colorado, you can buy certain types of guns at 18, including rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. However, there are specific restrictions and requirements that you must meet before making a purchase. These include passing a background check, providing identification, and meeting age verification requirements. By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership in Colorado, you can make informed decisions about your firearms purchases and ensure that you are in compliance with state and federal laws.
