If you’re 18, 19 and 20 years old — or you’re a parent of someone in that age range — you might be wondering if it’s legal to own a handgun in Colorado. The short answer is yes, but there are important restrictions and responsibilities to understand.
Federal Law: No Purchases Under 21
Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(1)), licensed firearms dealers (FFLs) are prohibited from selling handguns to anyone under the age of 21. This means an 18-year-old cannot walk into a gun store and buy a handgun, even if they legally can own one.
Colorado Law: Legal to Possess If Gifted by Family
Colorado does allow 18, 19 and 20-year-olds to legally possess and own a handgun, as long as it is lawfully transferred to them by a parent, grandparent, or legal guardian. According to Colorado law, private transfers between immediate family members are not subject to background checks and are exempt from universal background check laws under C.R.S. § 18-12-112(6)(b).
✅ Requirements and Responsible Gifting
Before gifting a handgun to someone under 21, parents and relatives should seriously evaluate whether the person is:
- Mature and Responsible: Can they handle firearm ownership safely and seriously?
- Legally Eligible: Are they free from any felony convictions, domestic violence offenses, or other disqualifiers under C.R.S. § 18-12-108?
- Mentally Stable: Are they mentally and emotionally ready for the responsibility of owning a handgun?
- Trained: Have they completed a basic firearm safety course?
🎯 Recommended Training for First-Time Owners
We strongly recommend all new handgun owners — especially those 18 19 and 20 — complete a basic handgun safety course. At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, we offer affordable, professional training designed for novice shooters and first-time gun owners.
Students will learn:
- Basic pistol operation and marksmanship
- Safe loading, unloading, and clearing
- Colorado laws on use of force and handgun storage
- Hands-on practice with live fire at the range
➡️ Click here to view our beginner handgun classes
🔒 Safe Storage Is Key
Whether you’re gifting a handgun or receiving one, safety is everything. Here are a few best practices for new owners:
- Store your firearm in a locked safe or pistol box
- Use a cable or trigger lock if needed
- Store ammunition separately if not carrying
- Never leave a handgun where a child or unauthorized person could access it
- Know Colorado’s safe storage laws — especially if minors are in the home
🧠 Real-World Example
Let’s say a 19-year-old lives in Aurora with her parents. Her father legally owns several firearms. He can gift her a handgun for home defense, and she can legally possess and store that handgun in the home or even carry it on private property. However, she cannot purchase a handgun from a gun shop, and she cannot carry it concealed in public unless she is 21 and has a valid Colorado CHP.
⚠️ Civil and Criminal Liability
Parents and guardians should be aware that they can face criminal or civil liability if a gifted handgun is misused. If the young adult isn’t mentally ready, fails to store it securely, or uses it irresponsibly, it could lead to tragic consequences — and legal repercussions.
Final Thoughts
Yes, an 18, 19 and 20-year-old can legally own a handgun in Colorado, but only if it’s gifted to them by a direct family member. It’s a big responsibility — and one that should come with training, maturity, and the right mindset. At the end of the day, it’s not just about what’s legal — it’s about what’s safe and smart.
🔐 Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws may change and vary by jurisdiction. Always check current federal, state, and local laws before transferring or possessing a handgun. Consult a qualified attorney if you have legal questions about firearm ownership
