South Carolina residents can own firearms. As a gun enthusiast, you might feel compelled to lend your firearm to a friend. Fortunately, there are no laws against this act.
However, you might bear liability if you permit them to borrow your gun when the state law prohibits it. As the firearm’s registered owner, you passed the necessary background checks and qualifications to purchase it. These requirements do not extend to your friend.
Also, the law has provisions that prohibit certain people from possessing or carrying firearms, including:
- Any individual convicted of a violent crime
- Aliens who reside in the United States
- Individuals with domestic violence convictions or specific protective orders
- Patients with mental disorders deemed unqualified to bear a firearm
- Individuals undergoing treatment for alcohol or drug addiction
- Minors, especially juveniles committed to the local Department of Juvenile Justice
- Patients or prisoners under the Department of Mental Health
Even so, there are exceptions based on the situation. Minors could possess a firearm if supervised by an adult or a qualified instructor. They can also lawfully carry or possess firearms if they are training or serving in the military.
Other gun laws in South Carolina
Aside from prohibitions against people, certain firearms are illegal to possess in the state, such as:
- Sawed-off shotguns and rifles
- Machine guns
- Military-grade firearms
- Teflon-coated ammunition
Additionally, the law imposes limitations on carrying a firearm in certain places. It is typically illegal to have a gun in establishments with alcohol. However, a person with a permit to carry could do so if they do not consume alcohol while there.
Public transit vehicles also have limitations on carrying firearms. Only law enforcement has the right to carry guns in these locations.