Can you get a gun if you have bipolar disorder?

Answer 1

This question really depends on the rules of ones state, and the requirements to own a firearm. I can really only speak to the state in which I live, which is Kentucky. The rules are usually similar, but every state is different.

Many states include involuntary commitment as a reason that one would be denied, but simply having a mental illness is not (nor should it be) a reason for prohibiting someone to buy or own a gun. Voluntary commitment to a mental institution is something done with the permission of the patient, and does not disqualify one from gun ownership. Involuntary commitment, however, involves the concerned party - family, doctors, therapist etc - standing before a judge to ask for a commitment order. If one is granted, it is treated the same as an arrest warrant, except the person in question is taken to a mental hospital instead of jail. One might assume that these types of individuals might be more dangerous - hence the firearms ban. But the power of involuntary is sometimes misused by family members or medical staff.

The mentally ill are already at a huge disadvantage because of social stigma, but there are many people who are responsible and proactive in their own treatment. Certainly they deserve the same level of protection afforded to any other law-abiding citizen.

Answer 2

heck no

I see no reason they could not get a hunting license, however getting a gun to do the hunting with could be a problem, probably a bow wouldn't be a problem. Perhaps they could go with a hunting party and borrow a spare gun for the day and return it. However each states laws will differ in detail.

Answer 3

Depends on many variables. In many places no.