The laws on purchasing and carrying firearms vary heavily from state to state. Analysis of Alaska's firearms laws starts with their State Constitutional Firearms Provision: "A well-regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. The individual right to keep and bear arms shall not be denied or infringed by the state or political subdivision of the State."

Purchase of a Firearm in Alaska
Though Alaska does not require a state permit to purchase a firearm, it is unlawful to sell a firearm to anyone who has been convicted of a felony, or been adjudicated a delinquent minor for a crime that would have been tried as a felony if the child committed it as an adult. However, if 10 or more years have passed since the discharge of the prior offense, the person may be able to purchase a firearm.

Possession of a Firearm in Alaska
Similar to their firearm purchase law, Alaska's firearm possession law does not require a permit. Any person convicted of a felony or adjudicated a delinquent minor for a crime that would be considered a felony if committed by an adult may not possess a firearm unless 10 or more years have passed since the discharge of the offense.

It is also unlawful to possess a firearm on school property, on a school bus, or at any school sponsored event unless given permission by the chief administrative officer of the school or school district. Furthermore, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in a courthouse, day care center, or domestic violence/sexual assault shelter.

People may not possess a firearm if they have violated a domestic violence protective order. Nor is it legal for anyone intoxicated on alcohol or illicit drugs to possess a firearm. Loaded firearms may not be possessed by any person in any bar or other place where intoxicating liquor is sold for consumption on the premises.

Carrying a Concealed Firearm in Alaska
While there are no permits issued for carrying a concealed rifle or shotgun, any person 21 years or older may obtain a permit to carry a concealed handgun. Any person lawfully carrying a concealed handgun must inform a police officer that he is carrying such a weapon if approached by an officer in any context. He or she must also allow the officer to take the handgun for the duration of the contact.

In order to obtain a permit to carry a concealed handgun in Alaska, the applicant must (1) be at least 21 years of age, (2) be eligible to possess a firearm under state and federal law, (3) be a resident of Alaska for at least 90 days preceding the application, (4) have not been convicted of two or more Class A misdemeanors within the preceding six years, (5) not currently or within three years been ordered by a court to complete an alcohol or substance abuse program, and (6) demonstrate competence with handguns.