How old do have to be to own a handgun in ca.?

Question

How old do have to be to own a handgun in ca.?

Answer 1

You have to be 18, the current laws even sets the minimum age for obtaining a Concealed Carry License at 18 (though I suspect you would find it difficult to actually be approved).  Unfortunately, you cannot purchase a handgun at 18, even from a private party since those purchases must be transferred through a licensed dealer (and you must be 21 for the dealer to accomplish the transfer).  The most common way for someone under 21 to legally obtain a handgun is through an "Operation of Law or Intra-familial Transfer" (link below).  An Operation of Law or Intra-familial Transfer is your receipt of a firearm from a parent or grandparent (I think it also includes a sibling)  You will also need to obtain a Handgun Safety Certificate.  Go to a local gun shop (not a big-box retailer) to get your HSC and they can give you further guidance on getting the transfer accomplished legally  Of course, then you have the problem that you will not be able to legally buy ammunition for your handgun.

Answer 2

Federal law says 21 to purchase from a licensed dealer...if you inherit one at 18,so be it. Just remember, under 21 and no permit, you can't carry it.

Answer 3

21 unless its precussion, I bought some of those when I was 15-16.