Quote:
Originally Posted by Makedde
The majority don't, and I am not saying you all do. I do think that people need to be more responsible.
I don't know how easy it is to buy a gun in the States - do you need a permit? Do you have to undertake any training in how to fire the gun, clean it, etc?
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It depends on the weapon, and the state.
Example.
Military guy with a security clearance, and many years of service, with extensive training.
I had to get a letter from my command stating that I am a responsible person, they had to review my Service Record Book, and if anything, even a page 11 entry is found they do not sign the paper. Then I have to go to the sheriffs office, have a background check done. Then I have to fill out an application, obtain three references from honest citizens with no record, and disclose information about my marriage. They then check out my references, and my wife to make sure they are clean. Then I get my permit. You can apply for up to three permits at a time, each permit is good to purchase one pistol, and they are good for five years.
A civilian goes through the same thing, minus getting the command to sign off on it.
Rifle or shotgun from a gun show. Show up with the money, and two forms of ID. They then call the sheriffs office and have a background check done, and if it comes back clean, they sell you the weapon.
I have heard that some states require you to receive training and receive a certificate before buying any gun, some only require it for specific weapon types. But I have never seen anything that specifically says this is true, so it may be rumor mill.
The State of North Carolina does not require training for simple ownership because they believe that ownership is the right to any clean citizen. They have the checks and what not to ensure you are clean. You can not require tests for a right.
As I have said before, you can require tests for a drivers license because driving is a privilege not a right.
North Carolina law says that no loaded or unloaded weapon can be accessible by a minor. And every gunshop, or dealer requires you to read the letter of the law before sale is complete.