I was curious if it is legal to own an SKS in Tennessee at age 19. I've been told by one gun shop that I could but by another that I could not. Are there certain "kinds" of SKSs that I cannot own because of some strange law that is not commonly discussed?

Thanks in advance,

Evan

No, all SKS are semi auto rifles. If your state allows semi auto rifles to be purchased at the age of 18 you should be fine. Maybe one shop didn't know what an SKS was?

Just so we are clear. ..we are talking about the Russian Semi auto Siminov rifle...right?

Yes, The Russian rifle, and what do you mean by "semi-auto rifles"? Is it because of the original intention? I own a Marlin 60 but is that on a different level due to the caliber?

In Tennessee its legal to purchase a long arm (rifle or shotgun) at age 18.
We have no special laws concerning any type of semi-auto or so called "assault weapons". Semi-auto rifles are treated exactly the same as any other rifle regardless of configuration.
So, Yes, you can legally buy and own a SKS.

However, in some cases there may be local laws (city or county) which change the purchase age to 21. I have never heard of it happening, but it is legal under State Law.
Individual dealers can also set their own house rules. If they choose not to sell a gun to any person for any reason, there's nothing you can do about it.

I mean that the rifle is a semi auto. It loads the next round by itself. You don't pull a bolt or release a lever to chamber the next round.

Here in Tennessee, you are allowed to purchase and own a long gun at age 18. You can also purchase from an individual, and own a handgun at age 18. You cannot purchase a handgun from an FFL licensed dealer until age 21.

Don't ask me to explain the logic of these laws.

Thanks everyone! I too do not understand some of the gun laws. I can own a rifle in 357mag but no one will sell me the ammo... Yet I can buy 50BMG. I don't get it. I appreciate it, I've been looking for something to buy that's a little out of the ordinary but still has some class. I believe the SKS will fill that roll just fine.

I have two sks rifles. A Chinese one that is sporterized and a Russian Tula in refurbished original status.

Love em both.

I've a couple of SKSs. They are a lot of fun, and ammo is cheap for them right now.

The sis is more fun to shoot and louder than your first 22 semi auto.
There a hoot to shoot.
The only law there should be is that every one should own one or more.