The New York state Constitution does not have a specific provision that recognizes the citizens’ right to bear arms.  However, Article 2, Section 4 of the New York Civil Rights Law provides: “A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms cannot be infringed.”  Although, in New York a state permit is not required to purchase a rifle or a shotgun, a permit is required in New York City.  Also, when purchasing a handgun, the purchaser should be holding a license to carry or posses a pistol or revolver.

Under New York Consolidated Law Service Penal Section 265.40, a New York resident is permitted to purchase or obtain a rifle or shotgun from a state contiguous to New York and transport the rifle or shotgun into New York, provided the person is eligible to possess the rifle or shotgun according to New York law.  Under Section 265.17, a person is considered guilty of criminal purchase of a firearm, if the person purchases or purchases on behalf of another a firearm knowing that s/he or the person for whom the purchase is made is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.

The main government offices that deal with issues relating to firearms are:

State Police

Counsel’s Office

Bldg. 22, 1220 Washington Ave.

Albany, New York 12226

Phone: (518) 457-6811

and

Attorney General

120 Broadway

New York, New York 10271-0332

Phone: (212)416-8000

http://www.oag.state.ny.us