Handgun as gift?

[Frog48]

Hey all. My best friend is getting married in September, and I thought it would nice buy him a handgun as a wedding gift. I know straw purchases are illegal, but is this legal as a true gift? Is there any paperwork that would need to be done to transfer ownership?

We live in Texas, so I *think* that the state wouldnt require any paperwork or registration, but what do the feds have to say on the matter?

I'm 23, he's 24, and have clean records, so neither of us are prohibited to possess firearms.

 

[limbaughfan]

Most states allow privat transferres without a background check,I dont know about Texas but they probably do.

 

[Frog48]

Yeah, I dont think we do either. I guess I could ask his soon-to-be father in law, he's a retired police officer and avid shooter. He should know the law. I just didnt want to have to ask him, because I didnt want him to accidentally slip up and ruin the surprise.

 

[wdlsguy]

From the instructions for Form 4473:

"The Federal firearms laws require that the individual filling out this form must be buying the firearm for himself or herself or as a gift."

No problem with Texas.

 

[Frog48]

Good deal. Thanks guys.

 

[taliv]

coincidentally, i'm giving a handgun as a wedding gift as well. my friend is getting married this weekend.

 

[Frog48]

Awesome. I think that a handgun is a good wedding gift, especially since they are new homeowners. It will facilitate the defense of their family and "castle", if need be (heaven forbid).

 

[Abby]

Man, I got married and nobody gave ME a handgun... We got towels.

 

[Eightball]

Gift is legal. If he didn't have a clean record, then it would be illegal. You're golden.

Now buy me a "gift" for telling you that .