Legal age to carry firearm

Question
hi Doug,
  i work in a jail and i am 20 years of age.  i have always had an interest in handguns and was looking to get one for myself mainly for self protection outside of work.  i know i have to be 21 to purchase a handgun, but is it legal for a parent to purchase one for me and if so can i carry it?

Answer
Jacob,

It depends on your state of residence.  For example, in Arizona, you can legally own a handgun at age 18.  You cannot purchase one from a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer until you are 21, but you can obtain a firearm through a private party sale or if someone gives it to you as a gift.  In terms of being able to carry it, it depends on where you live.  If you are in Arizona, it is perfectly legal for you to carry a firearm openly any place it is legal for you to have a firearm.  If you live in Chicago, you could be arrested for carrying a firearm, since they are VERY illegal in the city of Chicago.

Please let me know what your city and state of residence is, then I can give you a good answer...

Regards,

Doug