By happenstance, the Law Librarian recently had opportunity to visit a full-service gun shop and shooting range. As someone who had no prior experience with handguns, this experience was incredibly informative and educational. It included detailed overviews of weapons (in my case both a semi-automatic and a revolver handgun), gun range safety and protocol information, and hands-on assistance from the staff in both loading and firing the weapons. Visiting such an establishment can provide valuable hands-on experience for anyone who might be considering the purchase of a handgun, interested in a career in law enforcement, or a wants to treat a foreign guest to a uniquely “American” experience.
This encounter prompted a search for Minnesota handgun legislation and consumer tools. The bulk of Minnesota handgun restrictions are codified in Minnesota Stat. Section 624.713, with Minnesota’s conceal and carry legislation being codified in Minnesota Stat. Section 624.714. To obtain a permit to purchase/transfer a handgun or a permit to carry in St. Paul, bring a completed application to the St. Paul Police Department headquarters. For Ramsey County municipalities and communities without police departments, see this page. If your permit application is denied, you have the option of filing a Petition for Reconsideration. Other helpful resources include the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department, and this information brief from the MN House of Representatives Research Department regarding prohibited locations for firearms. If you wish to sit down and read not just legal but practical facts and application pertaining to handgun possession, consider reading Minnesota Permit to Carry a Firearm Fundamentals by Michael Martin.
Felons are ineligible to possess handguns in Minnesota pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 624.713, but Minn Stat. Section 609.165 lays out the procedure for the restoration of felon handgun rights.
