Buying a Gun Online in Louisiana and Hunting Rifles for Louisiana Game
Short answer: You can order a rifle online, but it ships to a licensed dealer (FFL), not to your door. You fill out ATF Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check at the dealer before you take it home. Check Louisiana hunting rules with the state wildlife agency before you pick a rifle.
How buying a gun online works
An online order is only the first step. The legal sale happens in person at a licensed dealer. These steps come from the federal rules in 27 CFR Part 478.
- Pick a licensed dealer near you and ask the seller how to send your dealer's license details.
- The rifle or shotgun ships to that dealer. Federal rules for out-of-state sales of rifles and shotguns require the buyer to meet the licensee in person, complete Form 4473, and follow the rules of both states (27 CFR 478.96).
- Before the transfer is complete, the dealer must contact NICS. The NICS transaction number is written on Form 4473 whether the check is approved or denied (27 CFR 478.102).
- Bring a valid government photo ID to the dealer.
Federal age rules at a dealer
| Gun type | Minimum age to buy from a licensed dealer |
|---|---|
| Rifle or shotgun | 18 |
| Handgun | 21 |
Source: 27 CFR 478.99(b). Federal rules set these minimum ages for sales by licensed dealers.
Louisiana state rules
State rules can differ from federal rules and can change. Check current rules with the state attorney general, state police or your dealer before you buy. Topics to ask about:
- Any waiting period for firearm purchases.
- Any permit needed to buy a firearm.
- Magazine or other equipment limits.
Your dealer must follow the laws of both states, so they are the best first contact for local questions.
Hunting in Louisiana: the basics
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) sets hunting rules in the state. License prices, hunter education rules, season dates and legal weapons change, so read the current LDWF rules before you hunt. Look at these:
| Check this | Where |
|---|---|
| Hunting license and hunter education | LDWF hunting pages |
| Season dates and deer areas | LDWF hunting regulations |
| Legal weapons for each season | LDWF hunting regulations |
| Public land rules (WMA) | LDWF wildlife management area pages |
Choosing a hunting rifle
Pick the rifle after you read the weapon rules for your season and area. Rules can differ by season, for example for primitive weapon seasons, so confirm what is legal first. Then think about these points.
- Choose a caliber with ammo you can buy easily and that you can shoot well.
- Practice at a range until you can place shots with confidence.
- Use a good scope and a sling that fit you.
- Store the rifle unloaded and locked when not hunting.
FAQ
Can I have a rifle shipped to my house?
No. It ships to a licensed dealer, and you complete Form 4473 and the NICS check there.
How old do I have to be?
Federal rules set 18 for a rifle or shotgun and 21 for a handgun when buying from a dealer. Louisiana may add its own rules, so check current rules with your dealer or the state attorney general.
Which rifle is legal for deer in Louisiana?
That depends on the season and area. Read the current LDWF hunting regulations before you choose.
Official links
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries: wlf.louisiana.gov
- Louisiana State Legislature: legis.la.gov
- Louisiana State Police: lsp.org
- Federal rules, 27 CFR Part 478: ecfr.gov
General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Laws change; check the official source before you act.
