So You're a Washingtonian with Idaho Gun Envy? We Can Help (Sort Of)
Let's face it, Washington and Idaho might be next-door neighbors, but their gun laws are about as chummy as a cat and a hairball. You, as a responsible (we hope) Washington resident, are staring longingly across the border at Idaho's Wild West gun freedoms, wondering, "Can I snag a firearm there?"
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because it's not exactly a free-for-all, even in Idaho.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
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| Can I Buy A Gun In Idaho As A Washington Resident |
The Land of No Waiting (But Maybe Waiting Anyway)
Here's the gist: Idaho allows residents to buy most guns without a permit, background check, or that awkward ten-day waiting period that makes Washington gun purchases feel like an eternity. Sounds pretty sweet, right?
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
Hold your horses (or should we say, hold your semi-automatic rifles? Washington has restrictions there too). As a Washingtonian, you're still subject to your home state's laws, even if you're buying in Idaho. That means that ten-day waiting period? Yeah, it's still clinging to you like a persistent barnacle.
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
So, technically, you can buy a gun in Idaho, but you'll likely have to wait ten whole days to take it home to Washington. Think of it as a forced cooling-off period to ensure your excitement doesn't lead to any hasty decisions.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
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But Wait, There's More! (Because There Always Is)
Here's another wrinkle: Washington requires safety training before you can purchase a firearm. Idaho? Not so much. So, if you haven't already completed a "recognized firearm safety training" program within the last five years in Washington, that needs to be on your to-do list before heading to Idaho on a gun-buying adventure.
Basically, you can't bypass Washington's safety requirements by shopping in Idaho. Safety first, always!
The Bottom Line: It's a Maybe, But Probably Not Worth the Hassle
Look, while it's technically possible for a Washington resident to buy a gun in Idaho, the hoops you'll need to jump through might make it more trouble than it's worth. Between the waiting period and the safety training requirement, you might be better off just following the (admittedly stricter) process in your home state.
That being said, if you're really set on buying a gun in Idaho, consult a lawyer who specializes in gun laws to make sure you're crossing all your t's and dotting your i's.
How-To FAQs for the Aspiring Washington Gun Owner (Via Idaho):
- How to Find a Firearm Safety Training Course in Washington? Check with your local gun range or hunting store. They often offer these courses, or can point you in the right direction.
- How to Know if My Firearm Safety Training is "Recognized" in Washington? The Washington State Patrol maintains a list of approved courses on their website.
- How Long Does the Background Check Take in Washington? While the ten-day waiting period is mandatory, the background check itself is usually completed within a few days.
- How Can I Learn More About Washington's Gun Laws? The Washington State Patrol has a comprehensive website with information on gun laws and safety: https://www.wsp.wa.gov/firearms-background-division/
- How Do I Find a Licensed Gun Dealer in Idaho? A quick internet search for "Idaho FFL" (Federal Firearms License) will give you results in your area.
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