Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned gun owner, understanding the current laws around firearm purchases and concealed carry in South Carolina is crucial. At City Arsenal, we want to make sure you’re equipped with the knowledge you need to buy legally, responsibly, and confidently.
⚠️ First Things First: Know Your Intent
When purchasing a firearm, it’s important to be clear about your intent. Are you buying for:
- Self-defense?
- Concealed carry?
- Competitive shooting?
- Hunting?
- A personal collection?
Regardless of your reason, remember this critical point: buying a gun for someone who cannot legally own one (like a convicted felon) is a federal crime. This is called a straw purchase, and it can land you up to 15 years in prison. Don’t risk it, the buyer on the paperwork must be the actual buyer. If we have any reason to think a purchase is intended for someone other than buyer, we can and will refuse.
🪪 What You Need to Bring to Purchase a Firearm
To legally buy a firearm from our store, you’ll need:
- A valid, non-expired South Carolina driver’s license or state-issued ID
- The license must show your current physical address
⚠️ If your ID doesn’t have your current address, bring a state-issued supplement (like a vehicle registration or voter card) that shows your correct address.
🔍 No Concealed Weapons Permit? Here’s What Happens
If you don’t have a valid South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP):
- You’ll fill out the 4473 form
- We’ll run a NICS background check (this is a national system)
- Most results come back within 30 minutes or less
- If there’s a delay, we’ll take your contact info and reach out once we have an update
Once approved, you’ll return to complete your purchase and pick up your firearm.
No CWP? Want to learn the importance behind CWP and the new Constitutional Carry? HERE
✅ Have a Concealed Weapons Permit?
If you do have a valid CWP:
- It must be current and show your correct address
- If it matches your ID, we can bypass the NICS check
- You’ll still fill out the 4473, and once verified, you’re good to go!
🚫 If your CWP has your old address, we can’t bypass the background check — federal rules require the address to match.
Interested in getting your CWP? We offer classes! Learn more HERE
📄 The 4473 Form: What It Is and Why It Matters
Every firearm purchase or transfer starts with filling out ATF Form 4473. This is a federal document that asks for personal information and screens for prohibited buyers. It’s the same for everyone, even if you’ve bought before.
Once the form is completed:
- Our team will review it for accuracy
- Then we proceed with the background check process, if no conceal carry permit.
🎂 Age Requirements for Firearm Purchases
Before you come in, make sure you meet the federal age requirements for purchasing firearms and ammunition:
- 🔸 You must be 21 or older to purchase a handgun or handgun ammunition
- 🔸 You must be 18 or older to purchase a rifle, shotgun, or rifle/shotgun ammunition
⚠️ These age limits are enforced by federal law, no exceptions, even with a parent or guardian present.
Please bring a valid government-issued photo ID to verify your age at the time of purchase.
🤝 We’re Here to Help
We know the legal side of firearm ownership can feel overwhelming, especially with changing laws and requirements. Our team is here to walk you through every step, answer your questions, and make sure you feel confident and informed.
Still have questions? Feel free to call us or stop by the shop. Whether you’re buying your first gun or your fiftieth, we’re proud to serve the South Carolina firearm community with honesty, integrity, and safety in mind.
