South Carolina Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Who is prohibited from possessing a firearm under South Carolina state law?

1. Convicted felons

2. Individuals under 18

3. Personnel discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In South Carolina, state law establishes specific categories of individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms to enhance public safety. Convicted felons are prohibited because the law aims to reduce the risk of violent crime and promote responsible ownership of firearms. This restriction is rooted in the idea that individuals who have committed serious crimes may pose a greater risk if they have access to firearms. Individuals under 18 are also restricted from firearm possession in an effort to prevent youth from accessing weapons that they may not be mature enough to handle responsibly, which is consistent with national efforts to reduce gun violence among younger populations. Additionally, personnel discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions cannot possess firearms. This is due to concerns about their potential lack of judgment and responsible behavior with firearms, reflecting a general principle in public policy that seeks to limit firearm access to those who have demonstrated a risk to themselves or others. Given these considerations, the answer that encompasses all of these categories — convicted felons, individuals under 18, and those dishonorably discharged from military service — reflects a comprehensive understanding of who is prohibited from firearm possession under South Carolina law.