A: You must be 21 to buy a handgun or semi-automatic rifle. You can buy a shotgun or other types of rifles (bolt, lever, pump, etc.) at 18.

A: No. Firearms purchased online must be shipped to a licensed FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer, like us, where a background check will be conducted before you can take possession.

A: In New York State, background checks are required for the following:

Purchasing any firearm (handgun, rifle, or shotgun)

Purchasing a semi-automatic rifle (also requires a separate NY Semi-Automatic Rifle License)

Purchasing ammunition (as of September 2023, all ammo sales require a background check through the New York State Ammunition Background Check System)

Applying for or amending a NYS Pistol Permit Transferring firearms between individuals (even between family members)

All firearm and ammunition background checks must be completed through a licensed dealer.

A: Yes—New York State law requires all firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns, to be safely stored when not in the immediate possession or control of the owner, especially if anyone under 18 lives in or visits the home. Firearms must be: Stored in a locked container or Equipped with a locking device (like a trigger or cable lock) Failure to properly secure a firearm can result in criminal charges, especially if a minor gains access.

A: No. Under both federal and New York State law, you cannot buy or pick up a firearm for someone else—this is considered a “straw purchase” and is illegal, even if the other person is legally allowed to own a gun. The person who intends to own the firearm must complete the background check and paperwork themselves. The only exception is direct transfers between immediate family members.

A: Yes, private sales are legal but must comply with specific state laws. All private firearm transfers, except those between immediate family members, must be conducted through a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. This process includes: Background Check: The FFL dealer will perform a background check on the purchaser to ensure they are eligible to own a firearm. Documentation: Proper documentation of the transfer must be maintained by the FFL dealer.

Fees: The dealer may charge a fee for facilitating the transfer.

Immediate Family Exception: Transfers between immediate family members (spouses, domestic partners, children, and step-children) do not require an FFL dealer but must still adhere to all other legal requirements, including ensuring the recipient is legally permitted to own a firearm.

Handgun Transfers: Both parties must hold valid NYS Pistol Permits, and the handgun must be registered to the new owner's permit. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe legal consequences.

A: No, firearms like the Mossberg Shockwave are not legal to own in New York State. While federally classified as "non-NFA firearms" (not quite a shotgun or a handgun), New York classifies them as illegal due to their overall length, lack of a shoulder stock, and barrel length under 18 inches. Under NY law, a firearm must meet certain criteria to avoid being considered a prohibited “assault weapon” or “other weapon,” and the Shockwave falls outside those legal limits.

A: No, the Mare’s Leg is generally not legal in New York State. Although it looks like a shortened lever-action rifle, it is classified as a pistol under federal law due to its design and barrel length. However, in New York, its overall length, barrel length, and rifle-like appearance can cause it to fall outside pistol permit eligibility and into a gray area that is effectively prohibited under the state's strict gun laws.

A: In New York, it is illegal to possess a magazine that holds more than 10 rounds, regardless of whether it is for a rifle, shotgun, or handgun.

This includes: Detachable magazines Fixed magazines (in some cases, especially for semi-automatic firearms) Magazines that are “pinned” or blocked must be permanently modified to hold 10 rounds or fewer

Exceptions & Notes: Active Law enforcement officers are exempt.

“Grandfathered” high-capacity magazines are no longer legal to possess in New York since the NY SAFE Act.

Violations can result in criminal charges and confiscation of firearms.

A: No, under New York State law, you cannot legally buy or give ammunition to someone else unless you are a licensed dealer or the transaction goes through a licensed dealer. As of September 2023, all ammunition purchases in NY require: A background check through the New York State Ammunition Background Check System The buyer to be the actual person receiving and using the ammo A recorded transaction through a licensed dealer (including online orders) Giving ammo as a gift—even to a friend who legally owns firearms—is not allowed without going through the proper process.