South Carolina Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam 2025 - Free Gun Law Practice Questions and Safety Study Guide

In South Carolina, the age requirement to possess a handgun is 21 years or older. This regulation is in place to ensure that individuals who are armed are deemed mature enough to handle firearms responsibly. The age limit reflects the understanding that with the responsibility of ownership comes the need for a certain level of maturity and judgment, which is critical when it comes to safety and handling of firearms.

The law differentiates between the possession of handguns and long guns; individuals can legally possess rifles and shotguns at the age of 18, but the more stringent requirement for handguns is intended to promote safety and reduce potential misuse. This age restriction is common in many states as a part of efforts to prevent firearms from getting into the hands of young individuals who may not yet be ready to handle such responsibilities.