Kentucky Gun Control Laws

Kentucky has extremely lenient laws for the sale and possession of firearms. These weapons permits are not difficult to obtain, but hold to some regulations and restrictions. The possession and carrying rifles and shotguns throughout Kentucky requires no legal actions. Handguns may also be possessed freely in one's home and on their private property or business. However, to carry and conceal a handgun an individual needs to obtain a permit. The permit allows the individual to carry it freely in concealment. It is even stated in Kentucky law that a person with a permit may carry their handgun in the glove compartment of their vehicle. Permits are valid for five years.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

• Carrying a concealed weapon without the proper permit is a Class A misdemeanor
• Previous felons found in possession of handgun warrant a Class C felony, all other firearms warrant a Class D felony
• Possession of a handgun by a minor is a Class A misdemeanor. A second offense is a Class D felony

Requirements:

Kentucky Gun Purchasing Laws

Citizens of the Kentucky are free to purchase firearms from all licensed dealers or manufacturers throughout America, with no restrictions. Machine guns are included in this freedom as long as all federal laws are followed. Replica and antique guns are free to be purchased, sold, or transferred in anyway free of Kentucky government regulations.

Penalties & Regulations for Unlawful Purchases

• Sale of a firearm to a convicted felon is a Class A misdemeanor
• Sale of armor piercing ammunition is a Class D felony. Second and further infractions will be a Class C felony
• Citizens of Kentucky may purchase or import firearms from any manufactures or location as long as the firearm complies with all regulations set forth by Kentucky law

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

In Kentucky, it is legal to stand one's ground. This means individuals may return force with equal force. Through this law, firearms are legal in self-defense as deadly force. If one's life is in danger, they may use a firearm to protect it. Things that cause deadly force to be illegal are:

• Deadly force used when deadly force was not used first
• Deadly force used when the attacker has not presented a threat to the life of the defender

Legal Help

Kentucky's state laws regulating firearms are very simple. Charges are far less common in Kentucky than other states. However, if charged with breaking one of Kentucky's gun laws, one should hire an attorney to support them in the case. The most common charges are as follows:

• Firearm possession by a felon
• Possession of a handgun without permit
• Possession of a handgun by a minor