Can I buy a gun with an other than honorable discharge?
Asked by: Mrs. Mossie Cartwright | Last update: June 18, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (66 votes)
Under federal law, you are generally permitted to buy a gun with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge. An OTH is an administrative discharge, not a punitive one. The only military discharge that legally prohibits you from purchasing a firearm under federal law is a Dishonorable Discharge.
What can get you an other than honorable discharge?
An Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge is a severe administrative separation from the military, usually stemming from serious misconduct, security violations, or a pattern of behavioral issues. It is considered "bad paper" and often results from drug abuse, disobeying orders, or criminal offenses.
Can my friend just give me a gun?
Here's the good news: There is no federal law that prohibits gifting a firearm to a friend or relative who lives in your same state, as long as they are not prohibited and you're not doing business as an unlicensed dealer.
Can I have a personal firearm on base?
As of April 2026, service members can request to carry privately owned firearms on U.S. military bases while off-duty, following a directive from the Secretary of War aimed at increasing personal safety. While this changes prior policy, it requires formal registration, commander approval, and adherence to strict storage and transport protocols, usually involving secure, locked, and unloaded storage.
Can you get a concealed carry permit with a other than honorable discharge?
Amends GS 14-415.12(b) to revise the mandatory disqualifications set forth for concealed handgun permits. Now requires a sheriff to deny a permit application if the applicant is or has been discharged from the US Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions (was, discharged under conditions other than honorable).
Unlocking VA Benefits with Other Than Honorable Discharge
What does "Mexican carry" mean?
"Mexican carry" refers to the practice of carrying a handgun tucked directly into the waistband or belt without a holster. It is generally considered unsafe and highly discouraged by modern firearms safety standards because the trigger is left exposed, increasing the risk of accidental discharge.
Can you be a cop with an other than honorable discharge?
An Other Than Honorable Discharge (OTH) Police job refers to positions in law enforcement available to individuals who have received an Other Than Honorable discharge from the military. While some agencies may have strict hiring requirements, others may consider applicants with OTH discharges on a case-by-case basis.
What happens if you get caught with a gun on a military base?
The consequences are obviously significant if you are convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm at a military base or national park as set forth in 18 U.S. Code § 930. Exposure to 1 year in prison is just one penalty that you will face if you fail to secure an acquittal.
Why do soldiers tap their magazines against their helmets?
Soldiers tap their magazines against their helmets to seat the rounds (bullets) properly to the rear of the magazine, ensuring reliable feeding and preventing weapon jams. This action aligns the ammunition, shaking loose dirt or debris that could cause malfunctions, particularly when using older or dirty magazines in combat.
Was Pete Hegseth in the military?
Yes, Pete Hegseth is a military veteran who served as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard, with tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay. He attained the rank of Major, earned two Bronze Stars, and as of January 2025, serves as the U.S. Secretary of War (formerly Secretary of Defense).
Can my dad just give me his gun?
Yes, a father can generally gift a firearm to their child, but it must be a bona fide (genuine) gift, and both must legally be allowed to possess it and reside in the same state. The recipient must not be a prohibited person, such as a felon, and the transfer must comply with state laws, which may require using a licensed dealer (FFL).
What is the most heavily armed state in America?
Wyoming is frequently ranked as the most heavily armed state in America per capita, with data showing a high concentration of gun ownership relative to its population. Other top states for gun ownership rates include Montana, Alaska, Idaho, and West Virginia.
Can my mom buy me a gun for Christmas?
Here's what you need to know under federal law, as long as the recipient is lawfully allowed to possess a firearm, the A TF and the Supreme Court of the United States have repeatedly stated that guns may be purchased and given as gifts.
What rights do veterans with Oth have?
These may include:
- Care for your VA-rated service-connected disability.
- Care for conditions related to sexual assault or harassment you experienced while in the military.
- Mental and behavioral health care, if you served at least 100 days in the military and served in a combat theater or piloted a drone in a combat theater.
What is the holy grail for VA disability?
The "holy grail" for VA disability is generally considered to be a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) disability rating. This rating provides the highest level of monthly tax-free compensation, comprehensive VA healthcare, and additional benefits for dependents without requiring future medical re-examinations.
Is Netflix free for veterans?
Netflix is not generally free for veterans directly through the streaming service, but veterans can get it at no extra cost through specific T-Mobile plans. Eligible T-Mobile military plans include "Netflix on Us," which covers the cost of a standard with ads subscription.
Why can't marines walk on the grass?
Marines generally avoid walking on grass to maintain a professional appearance and discipline on base. It is a traditional, unofficial rule intended to prevent the destruction of well-groomed landscaping, symbolizing a restriction against taking shortcuts and cutting corners, which translates to a commitment to doing things right.
Do soldiers get boners in battle?
Yes, soldiers can experience unexpected erections in combat or high-stress situations. These "adrenaline boners" are typically caused by intense physiological reactions, such as massive adrenaline rushes, rather than sexual arousal, and they are sometimes accompanied by a need to urinate.
Is it illegal to have a 32 round magazine?
Whether a 32-round magazine is illegal depends entirely on state or local laws, not federal law. Several states, including California, New York, and New Jersey, ban magazines holding more than 10 or 15 rounds, making a 32-round magazine illegal to possess, sell, or import in those jurisdictions.
Can you keep your gun after leaving the military?
No, you cannot keep your issued service weapon (e.g., M4, M16, M9) after leaving the military. All weapons are serialized government property and must be returned to the armory upon separation or deployment. Taking any firearm or restricted serialized equipment is illegal.
Can military police do anything off base?
Yes, military police (MP) can operate off-base, but their authority is generally restricted to military personnel, property, or specific, limited circumstances. While they often patrol off-post areas near installations, their jurisdiction is not absolute over civilians, and they typically operate under agreements with local law enforcement.
What race had guns first?
The Chinese were the first to develop and use guns, starting around the 10th-12th centuries. They invented gunpowder, which led to the creation of the "fire lance"—a bamboo or metal tube attached to a spear that acted as a flamethrower and early shotgun—before advancing to true cannons and hand cannons by the late 13th century.
What does 4 fingers up mean for cops?
For police, holding up four fingers generally means "Code 4", indicating that a situation is secure, under control, or no further assistance is needed. It is a common, often silent, hand signal used to communicate "I'm OK" or "all good" to other officers during traffic stops or scene responses.
Can I get a veteran's ID with an Oth discharge?
If you received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable character of discharge, you're not eligible for a Veteran ID Card. If you have an uncharacterized or unknown discharge status, we'll have to verify your eligibility before we approve your application.
What actor was a cop in real life?
Several actors worked as police officers before or during their acting careers, most notably Dennis Farina (Chicago PD), David Zayas (NYPD), and Ken Osmond (LAPD). These actors often brought, or were cast for, an authentic "tough cop" persona to their roles in film and television.