Gifting Firearms: A Responsible Guide for the Holiday Season

As the holiday gift-giving season arrives, firearms enthusiasts often want to share their love of target shooting, hunting, or collecting with family and close friends. Gifting a firearm can be a meaningful gesture—but it carries distinct legal responsibilities and safety considerations unlike any other present.

A Gift Certificate—The Best Option

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recommends purchasing a gift certificate from a federally licensed gun dealer (FFL) rather than buying the firearm yourself. This approach lets the recipient select their preferred model and features (i.e., exactly what they want) while ensuring full compliance with federal rules. When completing ATF Form 4473, the buyer must certify they are the "actual buyer"— a requirement that can complicate direct gifting.

Buying a Specific Firearm as a Gift

A gift certificate simplifies things, but if you're set on a particular gun (such as a family heirloom), start by verifying the recipient's eligibility:

• Confirm legal eligibility: It is a federal felony to transfer a firearm to anyone you know—or have reasonable cause to believe—is prohibited from possessing one (e.g., due to felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, or other disqualifiers).

• Antique exceptions: Firearms manufactured before January 1, 1899, are generally exempt from background check requirements, but consult a local dealer or law enforcement to confirm.

• Next, ensure the firearm is lawful in the recipient's jurisdiction. Gun laws vary widely across the U.S.—thousands of regulations at federal, state, and local levels dictate permissible types, features, and ownership rules. Key examples:

  • Minors cannot own handguns.

  • Certain states ban or restrict specific firearms, high-capacity magazines, or accessories.

For guidance, visit the ATF website (atf.gov), consult an attorney, or contact your state attorney general's office.

In-State Transfers

It is federally permissible in certain circumstances to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer in your state and gift it to another resident of the same state. Before doing so, we recommend consulting an attorney experienced in the firearms industry. Several jurisdictions mandate transfers through a federally licensed dealer:

• Strict requirements: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and the District of Columbia. Be sure to research your state.

• Additional rules for handguns/specialty items: Maryland, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.

• Permits or licenses: Required in some states.

• Be mindful of exceptions: For example, New Mexico and Virginia require background checks for sales but not bona fide gifts (no expectation of money or value in return); gifting a firearm in Virginia is legal, provided both the giver and recipient are Virginia residents and the recipient is legally permitted to own a firearm. Transfers between immediate family members (parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren) do not require a background check or the use of a licensed dealer (FFL). Gifting a firearm in Maryland involves specific procedures depending on the type of firearm and the relationship between the giver and the recipient (both must be Maryland residents). Minnesota waives dealer involvement for recipients with a valid transferee permit. Many states exempt immediate family transfers. Always verify with your local dealer, an attorney, or state authorities.

Out-of-State Transfers

• Federal law prohibits direct interstate transfers to non-licensees. You must ship the firearm to a federally licensed dealer (FFL) in the recipient's state, where they will complete the transfer and background check.

Shipping Firearms Safely and Legally

• Handguns: Must ship via common carrier (e.g., UPS, FedEx) — the not U.S. Postal Service.

• Long guns: May ship via USPS or common carrier to an FFL (never directly to an individual across state lines).

• General rules: All shipments must declare the unloaded firearm. Review carrier policies in advance.

• Airline travel: Permissible in the cargo area of airplanes, unloaded, and declared at check-in. Check with your airline for their specific requirements and with the Transportation Security Administration at www.tsa.gov website.

Excellent alternatives to giving a firearm for the holidays:

• Training: Private lessons are a great way to fine tune your firearms skills and learn tips to make your shooting better and more consistent. 

•  Memberships: Along with the gift of Private Lessons, the gift of a group membership has incredible value. Click on these titles to join using our links- and get bonus gifts!

  • USCCA Membership: Excellent online training videos, branded merchandise, legal protection, and peace of mind. Three different membership tiers — each with a money back guarantee.

  • NRA Membership : Great in-class programs for the beginner.  Gives access to magazine subscriptions, gear, and retail perks and discounts. Insurance and liability coverage. Access to NRA Wine Club, credit card, and branded merchandise. Junior (minor) memberships start at $15/year. Want to get your best return on investment? NRA offers lifetime memberships for minors for $500 (adult lifetime memberships are $1,600).

• Ammo: A great stocking stuffer! A few hundred rounds of quality target or defensive ammo is always appreciated. We carry both Defender and Freedom ammunition.

• Accessories: Range bags, eye/ear protection, lights/lasers, cleaning kits, targets, or a nice laser SIRT gun to practice with at home can complete a gun owner’s gear list.

• Holsters and belts: A quality holster and gun belt, like the ones at We the People, help ensure a more comfortable and secure daily carry.

• Safe storage: Firearm storage options are essential and make thoughtful, safety-focused gifts. From full size safes to portable locking boxes, there are products for every need.

Final Thoughts

Gifting a firearm is a significant gesture that stresses trust and tradition — often passing down as cherished pieces across generations. A gift certificate from a local federally licensed retailer remains the simplest and most compliant path. If proceeding with a direct gift, do so responsibly and after research — celebrate the holidays safely and legally!

The two key items to take away from this article are 1) be sure to comply with applicable federal and state laws and city ordinances before making any purchases and 2) accessories, private lessons with a certified instructor, and memberships are excellent alternatives for gift giving this holiday season. 

We wish you all a safe and happy holiday!