MMP Guns is a Phoenix firearm retailer offering a selection of firearms and accessories for self-defense, hunting, and sport; as such, we’re familiar with Arizona’s firearm ownership laws. If you are a first-time buyer or recently moved from a state such as California or New York, you may have questions about buying a gun in Arizona and how the rules differ. Contact us or visit our Phoenix storefront to explore your options and get started.
Please be aware that this page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Firearm laws can change, so verify current requirements with the appropriate government agency or legal professional.
Buying a Firearm in Arizona: What Buyers Should Know
We want to make the purchasing process as straightforward as possible. Although Arizona has relatively few state-level firearm restrictions, federal requirements still apply to every transaction. Your eligibility to purchase depends on factors such as your age, the type of firearm, and applicable federal and state laws.
Age, Identification, and Background Checks
Federal law mandates minimum ages for purchases from a Federal Firearms Licensee. Buyers must be at least 18 years old to purchase rifles and shotguns. For all other firearms, including handguns, the minimum age is 21. When you purchase from our store, you must complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo a standard background check. Prohibited persons cannot lawfully possess firearms under federal or state guidelines.
Federal law identifies several categories of individuals who are generally prohibited from possessing firearms, including:
- People convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year
- Fugitives from justice
- Unlawful users of or people addicted to controlled substances
- People who have been adjudicated as having certain qualifying mental-health conditions or have been committed to a mental institution
- Certain noncitizens who are unlawfully present in the United States or admitted under a nonimmigrant visa
- People dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces
- People who have renounced U.S. citizenship
- People subject to certain qualifying domestic-violence protective orders
- People convicted of a qualifying misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
These categories are based primarily on 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and ATF guidance. However, certain exceptions and legal definitions can affect whether a particular person is prohibited from owning a firearm. If you have questions about your eligibility, we recommend consulting with a qualified attorney or the appropriate government agency.
Is There an Arizona Waiting Period?
Unlike some states, Arizona does not mandate a state-level waiting period to take your firearm home. However, federal background check procedures and standard dealer protocols still apply to every sale. If your background check clears immediately, you can typically complete your purchase the same day.
Open Carry and Concealed Carry in Arizona
Is Arizona an Open Carry State?
Yes, any person 18 or older who is not a prohibited possessor may lawfully openly carry a long gun or shotgun in Arizona (handguns have an age restriction of 21 years or older). To carry concealed, you must be 21 years of age no matter the type of firearm. Regulated under Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13, this freedom is still subject to location-specific restrictions and private property rules.
Arizona Concealed Carry and CCW Permits
Our state recognizes constitutional permitless carry for eligible individuals aged 21 and older. Even with permitless Arizona concealed carry, the Arizona Department of Public Safety still issues concealed weapons permits.
Many of our customers choose to obtain a permit for practical benefits. A permit allows for interstate travel reciprocity and can streamline the background check process during future purchases.
Arizona Self-Defense Laws and Restrictions Still Apply
Arizona law states that a person generally has no duty to retreat before using justified deadly physical force, provided they are legally present and not engaged in an unlawful act. This legal standard means deadly force is justified only under specific circumstances involving an immediate need to protect against unlawful deadly physical force.
Location restrictions heavily dictate where you can lawfully possess or carry a firearm. Prohibited areas include:
- Public establishments or events operating under specific liquor licenses
- Polling places on election days
- K through 12 school grounds
- Secured areas of airports and federal buildings
Understand Arizona Gun Laws Before Buying From MMP Guns
As a Phoenix firearm retailer, MMP Guns offers firearms, ammunition, and accessories backed by knowledgeable, customer-focused service. Visit our Phoenix storefront online or in person to explore available options and get assistance with the purchasing process. For specific legal questions, consult a qualified attorney or appropriate government resource.
This page provides general information about Arizona and federal firearm laws and is not legal advice. Laws can change, so verify current requirements with the appropriate government agency or qualified attorney before purchasing, possessing, or carrying a firearm.
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