If you live in Colorado or are planning a visit, you’ll want to understand the basics of the state’s gun rules. Colorado mixes stricter background checks with fairly open carry rules, so knowing the details can keep you on the right side of the law.
First, every buyer must pass a background check through the Colorado State Police. The check runs every time a firearm changes hands, even for private sales. This means you can’t buy a gun from a friend without the state’s electronic verification. The process usually takes a few minutes, but it can take longer if the buyer has a criminal record or a mental health flag.
Buying and Owning Firearms
To purchase a handgun, you must be at least 21 years old. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) can be bought at age 18. Both categories require a valid Colorado driver’s license or ID. If you’re a non‑resident, you can still buy a gun, but you’ll need a non‑resident permit and the purchase must be completed at a licensed dealer.
Colorado also has a seven‑day waiting period for handguns. The waiting period doesn’t apply to rifles or shotguns. During that time, the background check runs and the state makes sure you’re not prohibited from owning a gun.
Some cities, like Denver, have additional rules. Denver requires a separate permit for handguns and limits the magazine capacity to 10 rounds for most firearms. If you’re buying in Denver, be prepared to fill out extra paperwork.
Carrying and Using Firearms
Open carry of handguns is legal statewide for anyone who can legally own a gun. You don’t need a special permit, but you must keep the weapon visible. If you prefer concealed carry, Colorado issues a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). To qualify, you must be at least 21, complete a safety course, and pass a background check.
The CHP allows you to carry a concealed handgun in most public places, but there are still some no‑carry zones. Schools, courthouses, and venues that post a “no firearms” sign are off‑limits, even with a permit. Private property owners can also prohibit guns on their land.
When it comes to magazines, Colorado law generally allows any capacity, but the cities of Denver and Boulder have set a 10‑round limit for most handguns. If you’re traveling across the state, keep an eye on local ordinances to avoid accidental violations.
Another point to note is the “red flag” law, called an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO). Family members, law enforcement, or a court can request an ERPO if they believe someone poses a danger. The order can temporarily remove firearms from the person until a hearing clears them.
Finally, remember that firearms must be stored safely when not in use. Colorado doesn’t have a specific safe‑storage law for adults, but many local jurisdictions encourage locked storage, especially if minors are present.
Knowing these basics helps you stay compliant and avoid hassles. Whether you’re buying a new rifle, carrying a concealed pistol, or just curious about the rules, Colorado’s gun landscape is a mix of statewide standards and local quirks. Keep the guidelines handy, stay updated with any changes, and you’ll be able to enjoy your firearms responsibly in the Centennial State.
Colorado’s long struggle with mass shootings spans Columbine, Aurora, and Boulder’s King Soopers. The state has passed background checks, a magazine limit, red-flag laws, a waiting period, and local control measures—yet advocates say gaps remain. The Boulder attack that killed 10 reignited the debate over open carry, assault weapon rules, and federal action.
