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Who can buy a rifle in Maryland?

Who Can Buy a Rifle in Maryland?

Maryland is one of the states with strict gun laws, and buying a rifle in the state can be a complex process. In this article, we will explore who can buy a rifle in Maryland and what are the requirements.

Who Can Buy a Rifle in Maryland?

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In Maryland, the right to bear arms is enshrined in the Maryland Constitution, Article 16, Section 1. However, the state also has strict laws regulating the sale and possession of firearms. To buy a rifle in Maryland, you must meet certain requirements.

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old to buy a rifle in Maryland.
  • Residency: You must be a Maryland resident to buy a rifle in the state.
  • Background Check: You must undergo a background check through the Maryland State Police to ensure you are not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal record, mental health issues, or other factors.
  • Approval: You must receive approval from the Maryland State Police to purchase a rifle in the state.

Background Check Process

The background check process in Maryland involves the following steps:

  1. Application: You must submit an application to the Maryland State Police for a firearms purchase permit. The application must include your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.
  2. Fingerprinting: You must provide fingerprints, which will be used to verify your identity and check your criminal history.
  3. Background Check: The Maryland State Police will conduct a background check to determine if you are eligible to own a firearm. The check will include a review of your criminal history, mental health records, and other relevant information.
  4. Approval: If you pass the background check, you will receive a firearms purchase permit, which is valid for 30 days.

Types of Rifles That Can Be Purchased in Maryland

In Maryland, there are several types of rifles that can be purchased, including:

  • Hunting Rifles: Rifles with a minimum barrel length of 16 inches and a minimum overall length of 26 inches are considered hunting rifles and can be purchased in Maryland.
  • Sporting Rifles: Rifles with a minimum barrel length of 16 inches and a minimum overall length of 26 inches are considered sporting rifles and can be purchased in Maryland.
  • Target Rifles: Rifles with a minimum barrel length of 16 inches and a minimum overall length of 26 inches are considered target rifles and can be purchased in Maryland.

Rifle Restrictions in Maryland

While there are several types of rifles that can be purchased in Maryland, there are also several restrictions that apply:

  • Assault Weapons: Certain types of rifles, such as assault weapons, are banned in Maryland.
  • Magazine Capacity: Rifles with a magazine capacity greater than 10 rounds are banned in Maryland.
  • Bump Stocks: Bump stocks, which are devices that allow semiautomatic firearms to fire at a faster rate, are banned in Maryland.

Where to Buy a Rifle in Maryland

There are several places where you can buy a rifle in Maryland, including:

  • Federally Licensed Firearms Dealers: These dealers are licensed by the federal government and are authorized to sell firearms, including rifles.
  • Private Sales: You can also buy a rifle from a private individual, but this must be done through a licensed firearms dealer.
  • Gun Shows: Some gun shows in Maryland allow the sale of rifles, but this must be done through a licensed firearms dealer.

Table: Places to Buy a Rifle in Maryland

Place to BuyRequirements
Federally Licensed Firearms DealersMust be a Maryland resident, pass background check, and meet age and residency requirements
Private SalesMust be a Maryland resident, pass background check, and meet age and residency requirements
Gun ShowsMust be a Maryland resident, pass background check, and meet age and residency requirements

Conclusion

Buying a rifle in Maryland can be a complex process, and there are several requirements and restrictions that apply. However, by understanding who can buy a rifle in Maryland and what are the requirements, you can ensure a smooth and legal purchase process. Remember to always follow the laws and regulations regarding firearms in Maryland, and to prioritize your safety and the safety of others.

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