Can you legally own a gun in Delaware, United States?
Yes, you can legally own a gun in Delaware, United States. The state’s constitution guarantees the right to bear arms for self-defense and other lawful purposes. However, certain restrictions and regulations apply to gun ownership, possession, and use.
How do you obtain a firearm license in Delaware?
Delaware does not require a license to purchase or own a firearm. However, to carry a concealed deadly weapon (CDW), you must obtain a Concealed Carry Permit. To obtain a permit, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Delaware
- Complete a firearms training course
- Pass a background check
- Submit an application, including fingerprints and a fee
Delaware is a may issue state, meaning that the authorities have discretion in granting or denying a concealed carry permit.
What are the rules for open carry and concealed carry in Delaware?
In Delaware, open carry is generally allowed without a permit for individuals who are not prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, some locations, such as schools and government buildings, prohibit firearms.
Concealed carry is only allowed with a valid Concealed Carry Permit. Delaware recognizes concealed carry permits from other states, provided that the permit holder is at least 21 years old and the issuing state grants reciprocity to Delaware permits.
What are the penalties and enforcement for gun law violations in Delaware?
Penalties for gun law violations in Delaware vary depending on the specific offense. Some examples of penalties include:
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person: Class D felony, punishable by up to 8 years in prison
- Carrying a concealed deadly weapon without a permit: Class G felony, punishable by up to 2 years in prison
- Unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone: Class D felony, punishable by up to 8 years in prison
Law enforcement agencies in Delaware are responsible for enforcing gun laws and investigating violations.
What are the current gun regulations in Delaware, United States?
Current gun regulations in Delaware include:
- Background checks for private sales and transfers
- Waiting period of up to 25 days for handgun purchases
- Prohibition of possession of firearms by certain individuals, such as convicted felons and those subject to protective orders
- Safe storage requirements for firearms in homes with children
- Restrictions on firearm possession in certain locations, such as schools and government buildings
Which guns are prohibited in Delaware, United States?
Delaware prohibits the possession, sale, and transfer of certain types of firearms, including:
- Machine guns and fully automatic firearms
- Short-barreled rifles and shotguns
- Undetectable firearms
- Trigger activators that increase the rate of fire, such as bump stocks
What are the rules for air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns in Delaware, United States?
Air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns are generally not regulated as firearms in Delaware. However, some restrictions may apply to their use and possession, such as age requirements and restrictions on use in certain areas.
What are the firearm ownership per capita and other gun statistics in Delaware?
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, there were 97,592 registered firearms in Delaware in 2020. The estimated rate of private gun ownership in Delaware is 25.5%.
What are the rules on ammunition and high-capacity magazines in Delaware?
Delaware does not impose specific restrictions on ammunition types or high-capacity magazines. However, armor-piercing ammunition is regulated at the federal level and is generally prohibited for civilian use.
Is there a red flag law in Delaware?
Yes, Delaware has a red flag law known as the Lethal Violence Protection Order (LVPO) law. This law allows law enforcement or family members to petition the court for a temporary order to remove firearms from an individual who poses a significant risk of harm to themselves or others.
For more information on gun laws in Delaware, you can refer to the following resources:
- Delaware Code Title 11, Chapter 5: Specific Offenses, Subchapter VII: Weapons
- Delaware Department of Justice: Concealed Carry Permits
- Delaware State Police: Obtaining a Certified Criminal History