Greeting& Question

[Guest Fishman]

Hello everyone,

I am from Japan working in US with appropriate working visa (not green card).

Several years ago when I tried to purchase a shotgun, I was decline since I was not a citizen, which I perfectly understand.

Since then, I have been hunting using bow and muzzleloader chasing the white tail deer. However, more I enjoy the outdoor activity, my desire to own a hunting rifle grew.

I have a question regarding purchasing and owning a firearm in TN.

I know I cannot purchase one my self, but can my friend purchase (I pay) one and give it to me? Will this consider illegal?

Other idea I have is to purchase a muzzleloader that has an interchangeable barrel. (such as TC Encore or CVA Apex) It seems the rifle barrel can be purchased online without any special paperwork. Can owning a rifle in this way be consider illegal for non-citizen like me?

I will never want to break a law, I just want to know if there is any way possible within the rule.

Sorry for the long post. I appreciate any comments.

Thank you very much.

[TGO David]

That would be considered a "straw purchase" and is very much illegal. Your friend would very likely end up in jail as a result.

[Metalhead]

Likewise the Encore muzzleloaders require the same background check that normal rifles do because they can be converted.

[Guest TnDeerHunter]

Not much way to get around the law of actual ownership. However I do wonder if you would be allowed to borrow one from a friend to hunt with? Before I tried it I would check with the powers to be as I have no idea how that would play out, maybe someone smarter than I can speak up.

[Guest Fishman]

Thank you all for the advice.

Never knew Encore needs a background check even if its a muzzleloader barrel.

Obviously, I don't want anyone get in trouble with "straw purchase', but yes, my friend did told me that I can use his rifle.

I also read the following thread and it was a great help.

http://www.tngunowners.com/forums/tennessee-politics-legislation/21823-foreigners-buying-guns-nashville.html

It maybe a long way, but hopefully I can purchase the new Venture from TC.

Again, I really appreciate the info. Thanks!

[Guest nj.piney]

welcome

[Chief07]

Welcome.

If you are planning to become a citizen, you can legally buy a fire arm.

I know in Japan firearm ownership is almost non-existant.

What a shame. Fiearms are lots o fun and great sport.

Welcome to America, enjoy your stay.