Buying a gun can be confusing, especially if you are new to it. You need to make sure that you do everything correctly. There are a lot of regulations in place across the country, which vary from state to state. This is especially true after the nation’s deadliest mass shooting in Las Vegas, with most states pointing an accusing finger at Nevada gun laws.
Indeed, Nevada has some of the most relaxed gun laws in the country. However, you should know that it’s not as easy as heading to your nearest gun shop. You must follow gun laws and rules when buying guns in Nevada.
Below is an overview of the state’s gun control laws and what you should know about gun ownership in Nevada.
Who Can Buy Guns in Nevada?
Nevada state law does not require a permit to own rifles or shotguns, but you do need a permit to own handguns. This means you can buy rifles and shotguns in Nevada without any license. However, unlike the rest of Nevada, Clark County – where Las Vegas is located – requires a handgun license.
Nevada state law also requires a background check for owning a gun. Licensed dealers are authorized to conduct a thorough background check to ensure they do not sell guns to unauthorized persons.
The following persons may not purchase or possess firearms in Nevada:
- Convicted felons
- Persons convicted of certain misdemeanors
- Persons subject to a domestic violence protective order
- Persons addicted to illegal drugs
- Persons with documented mental health problems that pose a danger to themselves or others
- Fugitives
- Persons convicted of violent crimes
- Persons convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year
- Non-immigrant visa holders
- Persons who gave up U.S. citizenship
Once a dealer has confirmed that you are eligible for gun ownership in Nevada, you can proceed with buying a firearm.
Where to Buy Guns in Nevada
There are many places to buy guns in Nevada. For example, you can buy a firearm from a dealer or from a private citizen through websites such as Gunbroker, Armslist, and other firearm online marketplaces.
Buying from a dealer is the same as buying any other product: you go to a store, pick out what you want, and pay for it. You will need to fill out some paperwork and wait for your background check to come back before the sale is complete.
Buying from a private citizen is slightly different-you will need to meet up with them in person to complete a transaction. However, this option is often preferred if the gun you want is unavailable at dealerships.
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Steps to Legal Ownership of a Gun in Nevada
When it comes to buying guns, what you don’t know can hurt you. If you have never owned a gun, you will need to take some steps before purchasing one. Here’s what we recommend:
Check Your Eligibility
First, you need to determine if you are eligible for gun ownership. In Nevada, if you are over 18 years old and do not meet any of the criteria listed above, you are good to go.
Visit a Licensed Dealer
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, visit a licensed gun dealer and fill out an ATF Form 4473. This form asks for basic information about yourself and a short affidavit proving the purchaser’s eligibility under federal law. Remember to bring your ID and proof of residency.
Purchase Your Weapon
Once the gun dealer has approved your purchase, they will give you the paperwork you need to complete your transaction.
Penalties for Improperly Purchasing Guns
The penalties for improperly buying or selling guns in Nevada can include fines and jail time, so it’s important to know what you are doing before buying or selling one.
In Nevada, it is illegal to purchase a firearm if you are:
- A convicted felon – This is a category B felony and is punishable by up to six years in Nevada State Prison and fines up to $5,000.
- Subject to a restraining order– This is categorized as a gross misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,000.
- Intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of over 0.08%– This is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000.
If you are a drug user in possession of a firearm (NRS 202.257), this is punishable by up to six years in Nevada State Prison and fines up to $5,000.
How Can an Attorney Help?
If you need legal assistance regarding gun rights, firearm injuries, or other issues, our attorneys are ready to serve you.
Nevada Personal Injury Lawyers
A Las Vegas personal injury lawyer can help reinstate your gun rights if the state of Nevada has revoked or suspended them. This is especially relevant if you have a mental illness or criminal history that currently prohibits you from owning a gun.
A personal injury attorney can also pursue damages if someone injured you with a firearm that was not properly secured. This may be applicable if the person who caused the injury was using the weapon illegally or not following safety procedures. Your lawyer will review the details of your case and ensure that all necessary information is collected and presented.
Nevada Criminal Defense Lawyers
An attorney can also represent you in court if criminal charges related to gun ownership have been brought against you. Your lawyer will build a criminal defense to protect your rights throughout the trial process and work towards achieving a positive outcome.
Learn More About Gun Laws In Nevada
If you want to buy guns in Nevada, consider talking to an attorney with De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers before you do so. You want to do everything legally, and we can guide you through the process so you don’t end up with criminal charges.
Contact us today to learn more about Nevada gun laws before buying as well as the many legal services we offer.
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV. 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV. 89145
(702) 297-6373
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV. 89123
(702) 997-4264