There are many fine sources on the internet for understanding federal and state handgun laws concerning firearms. The list below includes some of the more helpful, and useful, links we have found. Please use these sources of information as a starting point. Your best source of information is almost always your state law enforcement agency – and they are usually very willing to help you understand your rights and responsibilities under your state’s laws.
The BATF has a couple of documents that are very useful in finding and deciphering firearms laws that apply to you. The Federal Firearms Regulations Guide attempts to list and clarify the vast array of federal laws. Perhaps most helpful is the Q&A section that starts on page 169. Another helpful BATF publication is State Laws and Public Ordinances – Firearms that outlines all state and local firearms regulations. It is an invaluable resource.
Handgunlaw.us has a very helpful reciprocity map for carry permits. They also have a pdf showing each state’s pertinent laws so you can go take a look at your state statutes yourself.
Another nice site that shows reciprocity maps and similar information about carrying. It also has contact information for each state’s permitting body, which is quite helpful.
Information about important federal firearms acts:
First major firearms control legislation. Among other things, it greatly restricted machine guns and sawed off shotguns.
Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968
Came in wake of JFK assasination. Outlawed interstate handgun trade, increased minimum handgun age to 21.
Created the FFL system.
Firearm Owners Protection Act (1986)
An important revision to the 1968 act above.
Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (1993)
Requirement for background checks – initially with a 5 day waiting period to allow for checks to complete.
Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994
The infamous ‘assault weapons ban’.
