ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on acquisitions through retail channels not because these acquisitions are somehow "more illegal" or more reprehensible than acquisitions through other sources but because governments at least have a passing chance to enforce regulations that impinge at the point of retail sale. Where and how felons obtain their firearms have obvious implications for the design of sensible firearms-control regulations. Many existing regulations, including some of those embodied in the Gun Control Act of 1968 and in the laws of many states, attempt to interdict the criminal acquisition of guns primarily at the point of retail sale. State and local jurisdictions can impose additional restrictions, for example, bans on sales to certain groups, required "waiting periods," required reporting of all firearms transfers, whether they involve a retail sale or not, registration of guns, permits to purchase, own, or carry guns.
