Gun ownership in the state of Illinois?

Question

I recently received an antique shotgun from my grandfather as part of my inheritance (he's giving certain items to family members while he's still alive to ensure they go to the people he wants them to go to).  I have never owned a firearm of any kind.

What must I do to legally possess a gun in the state of Illinois if the gun was given to me as a gift from a relative (i.e. not purchased through either a dealer or from private party)?  At the very least, I assume I need to obtain a FOID card.

? · Accepted Answer

[quote]
The Firearms Services Bureau is responsible for administering the Firearm Owner's Identification Program (FOID) and the Firearm Transfer Inquiry Program (FTIP). The FOID card is required for any resident of Illinois to possess or purchase firearms. During the FOID application process, the applicant’s identification and background information is checked. Individuals with prohibiting factors are disallowed from obtaining a FOID card. 
  
Through the FTIP program, background checks are conducted on prospective firearms purchasers attempting to acquire a firearm from an Illinois firearm dealer. Potential violations of law uncovered by these programs are quickly referred to law enforcement entities. These efforts contribute to a comprehensive strategy intended to reduce the availability of illegal firearms in Illinois  
  
Questions may be directed to the ISP FOID Section by phone at 217-782-7980 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. CST Monday through Friday or using the online FOID inquiry form.
[end quote]

? · Answer

CA is the worst state, but in your question you mention DC its not a state. There is also a very large debate on weather or not the citizens there have any rights because its not a state also, the politicians say the constitution doesn't govern it. IL is also very bad, you can't hunt with a rifle in the state, and to buy a pistol you have to have whats called a FOID (firearms identification card). In Chicago city limits its illegal to own a lot of firearms, I'm not sure on the specificity of it though. In CA the governator made it illegal to own or possess and 50 caliber firearms or ammunition. CT's not that bad, you can hunt with a rifle in the entire state, and you don't have to obtain a license to own a pistol. Cops do have to qualify with every pistol they own though to carry it, but that goes with every state. If you want to move somewhere with no gun restriction laws move to either Texas or New Hampshire. They are both very pro civil liberties.

Anonymous · Answer

Call the Firearms Officer at the jail.

Anonymous · Answer

Yeah you should register it.

Gun ownership in the state of Illinois?

4 Answers