Q: Can I own a rifle in my home by myself at age 19 in Florida? And if I get one from a friend can I get in trouble?
Strictly for self protection in my home.
A:
Florida Statute 790.065 provides that
"(13) A person younger than 21 years of age may not purchase a firearm. The sale or transfer of a firearm to a person younger than 21 years of age may not be made or facilitated by a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer. A person who violates this subsection commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. The prohibitions of this subsection do not apply to the purchase of a rifle or shotgun by a law enforcement officer or correctional officer, as those terms are defined in s. 943.10(1), (2), (3), (6), (7), (8), or (9), or a servicemember as defined in s. 250.01."
Thus, you may possess a firearm but are not allowed to purchase one. If your friend transfers it to you, providing that the friend is not a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer, that appears to be permitted. But you can't purchase it from the friend.
There are additional restrictions concerning persons under the age of 18.
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