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New with gun purchase question.

Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2009 5:36 pm
by dmg08
I have to say that this is a great site with some invaluable information. I have read that you can be eligible for a CHL but not to purchase a firearm. In Texas, what would make you ineligable to purchase a firearm other than the obvious? I am gathering my information for my package so I am wondering - what could they ask you when you go to buy a gun that they have not already asked you on the CHL application in Texas. It's been a while since I have bought a gun and I don't want any surprises. Any clues ?

Thanks for the help

Re: New with gun purchase question.

Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2009 6:02 pm
by timdsmith72
Good question. I just bought a Sig P226 a few weeks ago and they just asked the normal: Are you addicted to illegal drugs...Have you been convicted of a felony...etc. Then ran a background check. I didn't think it was anything out of the ordinary.

Re: New with gun purchase question.

Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2009 6:09 pm
by CJATE
Although there may be something else, An 18 member of the military can have a CHL, but can’t buy a hand gun until they are 21. I am sure others will chime in , but I understand this is why the Texas does not get a lot of reciprocity.

Re: New with gun purchase question.

Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2009 6:29 pm
by boomerang
I think age is the only reason someone would qualify for a CHL but not be able to purchase a handgun from a dealer. After all, being "fully qualified under applicable federal and state law to purchase a handgun" is one of the eligibility requirements for a CHL.

On the other hand, as the long list of other eligibility requirements shows, there are many reasons someone may pass a NICS check but be denied a CHL.

Re: New with gun purchase question.

Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2009 6:36 pm
by seamusTX
Texas has no eligibility requirement for purchasing a handgun beyond federal requirements. You can see them here: http://www.atf.gov/forms/4473/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

A person who is under 21 years of age cannot purchase a handgun from an FFL, but it is perfectly legal for someone who is 18 to 20 to purchase one from an individual or receive one as a gift in Texas. See Penal Code Sec. 46.06.

One of the affidavits for a CHL asks if you can legally purchase a handgun. This requirement is waived for 18 to 20-year-olds who are on active duty in the military.

- Jim