registering handgun

Question
I want to buy a handgun in Texas, and transport it back to NJ on an airline. Any problem registering the gun in NJ? The gun is purchased thru a dealer. I have a FID card and in the process of getting a pistol permit. 4 years ago I was ok'd for the permit, but did'nt have the money, and only had 30 days to purchase. Is the only way to buy ammo is to register it? Thanks

Answer
Tom,

As a New Jersey resident, you cannot legally buy a firearm in Texas and bring it back with you on the plane.  Federal law only allows interstate transfer of firearms through federally licensed firearms dealers.  You would need to have the Texas dealer transfer the firearm to a federally licensed dealer in NJ who would then insure that you were legally permitted to purchase a firearm under NJ law.  Once the NJ dealer determines that you have complied with all requirements of NJ law, they can then transfer the firearm to you.  Many dealers will charge a small fee for this service since there are some logistics and paperwork they need to manage.

The Texas dealer cannot legally sell you a pistol in Texas if you are a resident of NJ.  That would be a violation of federal law.  Additionally, if you were to purchase a firearm from a private owner in Texas and transport it to NJ yourself, you would also be in violation of federal law.

You will also need to get a new pistol permit before you can move forward on the transaction.  You should contact your local police department to get started on this.  

You also need to have either an FID card or a pistol permit in NJ to purchase ammo.

Hope this helps you out...

Best regards,

Doug