Hunting permits are used to regulate the hunting of wildlife in all states. In each state there are a wide variety of hunting permits, including resident and non-resident. Permits are also specific to the type of game you are hunting, including bird and mammals; deer; antelope; bear; elk; bighorn sheep; pigs; and bobcats Each state is home to a different variety of legal and illegal game, so be sure to educate yourself. The killing of illegal game is poaching and is a criminal offense. There are a variety of types of permits, so before doing any kind of hunting, (or fishing) check with the Department of Fish and Wildlife in your state to ensure you have the correct permits, and where to get them. Many are printable off the state website.

What is the minimum age for buying a gun?

The minimum age for buying a handgun is 18 and has been set by the Federal government. Many states have set higher standards and set the legal limit at 21. “Long guns” like rifles and shotguns are set at 18. Some states laws are more relaxed on the long gun laws. For instance, in Minnesota, if you live outside the city, you can acquire a long gun, with parental consent, at 14. States with a large contingent of hunters may have more relaxed laws, but only regarding long guns, not handguns. Check your state websites, local law enforcement, gunsmiths, or Federal Firearms Licensed dealer for specifics in your area.

What is concealed carry?

A concealed carry is carrying a concealed firearm on your person, usually a handgun. Most states have laws governing concealed weapons and require permits, however there are 12 states that do not require any permits for carrying and/or concealed weapons: Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. All other states have concealed carry laws requiring permits. If you are planning on carrying a concealed weapon, check with your local law enforcement to confirm the laws in your area, as they can change.

What is open carry?

Open carry refers to carrying a gun in public, out in the open. This is not to be confused with a concealed weapon, which is hidden on your person. Open carries are legal in approximately 31 states. However, some do prohibit the open carrying of a loaded weapon. Understand the difference. There are obvious exceptions such as law enforcement officers, etc. The laws in your city and state can easily be checked on the state website or even by calling your local gunsmith or law enforcement office.

Is a permit required for buying a gun?

The federal government does not require permits to purchase firearms. All states set their own requirements, but only 10 have laws requiring a permit-to-purchase on (some) firearms. Usually these are aimed at handguns, not long guns (shotguns and rifles). Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York (handguns only) require a license or permit to own firearms, for the duration of ownership. California requires a certificate showing completion of firearm safety training.

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