Posted: 3/10/2008 6:30:08 PM EDT
| I want to buy a pistol but I am only 20 years old this month and there is a gun show coming to my area soon my question is can you buy a pistol if you are under 21 at a gunshow? I was thinking maby because they can be considered private sellers? Or am I just completely wrong in this thinking? Btw if it makes any difference in laws I am in Louisiana. |
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If I were you, I would avoid the fun shows. My experience of the ones in LA is mild entertainment for those who've never been, and real thorn in the side to those who recall when they were less crappy. at least 9/10 tables selling firearms belong to FFL dealers, which means they will run a background check on you and could not sell you the pistol. maybe 1 table in 20 will be a private citizen selling other crap who happens to have a few used guns in a case. You could purchase privately from this person (provided you have never committed a felony) or you could purchase privately from any of the fools carting a handgun into the show in hopes of getting a good trade. Odds are that you won't find anything of interest for a reasonable price. My advice is to check the paper, craigslist, gunsamerica, and the EE for local sales. Bear in mind, you cannot carry concealed without a permit, which can only be obtained at 21 leaving open carry (which may not be wise in certain situations) car carry, and home defense. If you are not going to to much open carry then you won't have much use for the pistol other than a range toy since a longarm you can legally obtain at 18 beats the crap out of a handgun and can be stored/used in the home or auto. I was impatient too and got my first handgun used at 18. Still have it, a USGI Remington Rand I got for $300.  If I were you I would take my time and figure out what you want (you can test fire rentals at the range), then keep your eyes open in the places mentioned. You can also place a "Want to buy" ad on the net/locally to see what comes out. That would probably be pretty successful.
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IF you are unfamiliar with the particular hand gun you want, a gun show is the worst place to buy it. That's where people go to sell their problem child to the next sucker. Look in the paper or find a friend or relative who will sell you their old (but working) beater. Learn about handguns and how they work for you and in your hand, before buying a high dollar piece. Only buy from a reputable dealer if you have no experience with a particular model. It will cost a bit more, but the time/aggravation saved is priceless. Once you have more experience, then go scour the gun shows for a deal. |
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Nothing wrong with buying at a gunshow IF one has decent knowledge and/or a friend who knows what the hell is going on. To answer the question, if you hook-up with a local dealer at a gun show (for the generally lower prices found there), you can pay for the gun but NOT take delivery of it until your 21st birthday. Virtually any reputable dealer will do this for you. Two requirements there: 1) Dealer is close enough for you to drive to in state. 2) Dealer WILL still be in business when you turn 21 so you don't lose your $$$$$. If you're not sure which dealer(s) would be honest enough to help you, simply ask other dealer who are from out of town whom they would recommend. Dealers know who is the shyster & who is the good guy.  Good luck! 
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if you dont know about handguns, i would stay away from shows until you know what to look for in Used guns, if you plan to buy. However, gunshows are great place to feel them and determine if you like what you feel. also, if the controls in the a good place for you. once youre old enough, i would try and find a good gun shop. Ask some question about how they handle defective guns and if they have a time limit to return. I have a good relationship w/my LGS and he is willing to give me deals and let me know when used guns come in. especially ones im looking for! alot of times, he gives me first dibs on the used guns. thats my take. i like to goto gun shows to look for used guns. thats where i find alot of guns that are no longer made. i also check the internet. but for new or current mfg guns, my dealer can get better prices then i can at the shows. |