Legal age?

Question
Hello sir, I was wondering, what is the legal age to bear a firearm in California? and what limitations do I have?
I am expecting to be 18 this july and I have an interest in target shooting. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Jimmie,

You need to be 18 years old to purchase or possess a rifle or shotgun in California.  You must be 21 years of age to purchase or possess a handgun.  In terms of limitations, you should probably be aware of the legal requirements for transporting a firearm in California.  If you are transporting a long gun, it should be unloaded and cased and transported in the trunk of your vehicle.  Handguns must be unloaded and cased in the trunk of the vehicle as well.  You do have the option of transporting your handgun in the passenger compartment of the vehicle if the firearm is unloaded and in a locked container.

If you purchase a long gun, you need to make sure your rifle does not qualify as an 'assault rifle'.  This is usually a function of the design and the ammunition capacity.  If you do purchase a long gun that is classified as an 'assault rifle'.  You will need to register it.  Your gun dealer can give you guidelines and assistance in that regard.

Hope this helps you out.

Regards,

Doug