Kentucky is a state in the southern United States that has Frankfort as its capital. Kentucky has high rates of gun violence. Kentucky law allows residents to purchase or own firearms without getting a state permit.
Kentucky’s gun laws are very open and allow people to carry guns freely. Adults 18 or older can carry firearms like rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Those who are 21 and above can carry concealed handguns without needing a permit.
In Kentucky, there are no limits on handgun magazine capacity. There is no license requirement for gun owners, except in certain circumstances. However, there are several important regulations that ensure public safety and responsible gun ownership. This article provides a clear overview of the Kentucky gun laws.
Overview
Kentucky gun laws are simple. They allow people to own and carry guns easily around. People 18 and over can carry firearms like rifles, shotguns, or handguns. You don’t need to register to carry a gun. Only people who have previous criminal records can’t own a gun. Also, one can’t take guns into schools and bars. The law basically focuses on allowing people to use guns while following certain rules.
Purchasing Firearms
Buying a gun in Kentucky is simple. You don’t need a special permit to buy rifles, shotguns, or handguns. The only rule is that you must be at least 21 years old. To buy rifles and shotguns, 18 is enough.
A licensed firearms dealer performs background checks while selling a firearm. But a background check is not necessary if you are buying it from a private seller. In rare cases, like if you have any prior criminal record, you cannot buy a firearm.
Minimum Age Requirements
Handguns: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase one.
Rifles and Shotguns: You must be at least 18 years old.
Possession of firearms: Minors are generally prohibited from having handguns. Some exceptions exist for several activities like hunting and competition.
Open and Concealed Laws
Open carry means anyone 18 years or above can openly carry a gun in public places. There is no restriction in Kentucky regarding this. Kentucky is a “constitutional carry” state. Whereas, "concealed" means carrying a gun hidden on your body. For this purpose, you must be at least 21 years old.
Places like schools and bars in Kentucky do not allow gun usage. Furthermore, there is a rule: concealed guns must be kept in glove boxes while driving. These laws keep people safe while also respecting their rights.
Risks and Prohibitions
Risks in Kentucky gun law may include penalties for carrying firearms for someone who is convicted of a felony. Whereas, prohibitions may include carrying handguns in restricted areas and possessing firearms after being disqualified.
Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) let family members file a petition in court to temporarily take guns away from someone who might hurt themselves or others. This is also called a “red flag” law. Kentucky currently does not have an ERPO law, but it prevents people with certain criminal convictions. People convicted of domestic violence crimes are prohibited from possessing firearms.
Penalties
- Kentucky has a strict penalty for violating gun laws.
- Possessing a handgun as a convicted felon is a Class C felony. It may get you a prison time of 5 to 10 years and fines between $1,000 and $10,000.
- Carrying a concealed weapon without a license can be a Class A misdemeanor with up to a year in jail and fines up to $500.
- Using a firearm during a crime can increase the charge severity by one class.
- Penalties may be more severe if the firearms are used for an assault or robbery.
Key Takeaways
- Kentucky’s gun law allows adults of 21 years or older to carry and use firearms without a permit.
- In Kentucky, it is not necessary to register or get a license to own firearms.
- Firearms are banned in certain places like schools, bars, etc.
- People convicted of domestic violence crimes are prohibited from carrying or using firearms.
Kentucky has strict penalties for violating gun laws.
