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In South Carolina, can you legally purchase a firearm for another person as a gift?
Yes, if the recipient is legally allowed to own a firearm
No, it's considered a straw purchase
Yes, but only within the family
No, all transfers must go through a dealer
The correct answer is: Yes, if the recipient is legally allowed to own a firearm
In South Carolina, the legality of purchasing a firearm for another person as a gift is contingent upon whether the recipient is legally allowed to own a firearm. If the individual receiving the gift meets all the legal requirements to possess a firearm—such as being of legal age, not having a felony conviction that disqualifies them from ownership, and not having any restraining orders against them—the transaction is permissible. It is important to note that while some may suggest restrictions on gifting firearms, the law primarily focuses on the recipient's legal eligibility. This means that as long as the person receiving the firearm is compliant with state and federal laws, gifting is allowed. The other options represent common misconceptions about firearm transfers. For example, the notion of it being a straw purchase applies specifically when the buyer intends to circumvent laws that prohibit the recipient from possessing a firearm. Additionally, while there are provisions regarding family gifts in some jurisdictions, South Carolina does not have a strict limitation that allows only family members to receive firearms as gifts. Lastly, the requirement for all transfers to go through a dealer is not a law in South Carolina for private gifts, as private sales and gifts between legally eligible individuals do not necessitate dealer involvement.