How old do you have to be to have a legal permit to have a gun?

Question

My best friend and I (are both nineteen) have recently moved into an apartment. This is the first time that we have been on our own. We lived on dorm our freshman year, but due to the NUMEROUS restrictions, we decided to get our own place. But considering the fact that we are both females, we decided to enroll in self defense class, however, I still don't feel like that is enough protection. Is it possible for me to get a gun license. If so, what do I have to do.

oh...we live in Memphis, TN, so if you ever watched A&E's First 48, you'd understand why this question is so urgently in need of an answer. Thanks guys!

Answer 1

Federal Law is 18 for shotguns and rifles and 21 for pistols.

Answer 2

I also believe it is 18 for rifles and shotguns and 21 for handguns.  Before you make the decision to get a gun, attend a gun safety course and know what you are doing.  I was in the military and am comfortable with firearms but if you aren't trained and/or comfortable with a firearm, it can be dangerous for you to have one.  Don't use a firearm to threaten, when you pull it be prepared to shoot if necessary or it may well be used against you.  You may want to look into alternatives such as mace, pepper spray, etc.  

Answer 3

I think you have to be under 18 and still have a permit.  

Answer 4

In Memphis, you don't need a license to keep a gun in your apartment, and unless you're in public housing, there's probably no restriction on having one in your lease. You aren't old enough to buy a handgun, but I gave one of my kids a handgun while he was at Tiger High (U of M), perfectly legal; and a shotgun would be both legal for you to buy and probably a better choice. I don't think you can get a concealed carry license, but you can certainly keep something in the apartment.

Answer 5

In TN, there is no permit needed to buy a rifle or shotgun (recommend shotgun for home defense, of the two); you don't have to register it; you're both 19 so that's not a problem; shop at a gun store (not the sporting goods section at a department store) for best expertise in helping you pick the "right" one for you; ask them about laws for transporting it and where to practice shooting; then practice a LOT.  Shoot at least 40 shells each.  Use hearing protection most of the time but try it at least once each without it so you know what it sounds like and you won't be scared of it when you really really have to use it.