Whether it’s something you have been looking at for a while or a purchase you’re about to make, it’s important to set aside some time for research to get all your ducks in a row before rushing into any major firearm purchase. Gun buying is one of those situations in which it’s important to educate yourself as much as you can, so you don’t inadvertently do something illegal. With that in mind, here are five Kansas gun laws you should know about when deciding to buy from a gun store in Olathe, KS:
- Castle doctrine: Citizens should feel comfortable and safe in their own homes, which is why some folks own guns for their own protection. Under Kansas state law, gun owners can defend themselves if it is believed necessary to do so, such as when their life is being threatened. This law is also known as the “stand your ground” legislation, but it is of utmost importance to understand the accompanying limitations to this law.
- Carrying a weapon in Kansas: You may be wondering what it takes to get a concealed carry permit in the state of Kansas. If you are just moving to Kansas, a license issued by another state or the District of Columbia will be recognized until the gun carrier becomes a resident. Once you become a permanent resident of Kansas, you are permitted to carry as long as you are over 21 years old. You may not carry your gun while intoxicated, on state property, on school grounds (including preschools) or visiting correctional facilities or courthouses.
- Permits and registration: Under Kansas law, there is no legal requirement for the purchaser of a firearm to have a permit or register a handgun, rifle or shotgun. Similarly, a firearm purchaser is not required to have a license.
- Machine guns and silencers (aka suppressors): Kansas does not allow automatic weapons within the state. This means that any weapon that is capable of discharging more than one round per trigger pull is illegal. Likewise, attaching a sound suppressor to a firearm or a shotgun with a barrel under 18 inches is also against the law. Some states allow for suppressors and fully automatic firing function with the purchase of a federal tax stamp, but Kansas is not one of them.
- Identifying marks: Whether you are restoring an old antique rifle or trying to remove identifying marks, you should know that altering or removing any gun’s serial number, manufacturer name or other markings which can be used for identification is illegal in Kansas. During a restoration project, be careful not to sandblast or sand down these identifiers by accident.
If you have further questions about Kansas gun laws or would like to learn more about any of the aforementioned state laws, contact a nearby gun store in Olathe, KS like Harrison Street Pawn. Gun professionals who have strong knowledge of current Kansas gun laws can always help you out—we want to make sure you understand and can get the most out of your purchase!