Article 1, Section 20, .of the South Carolina Constitution states that, “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.”   In South Carolina, permit is not required to purchase rifles, handguns, shotguns or long guns.

Any resident of the State of South Carolina including business entity maintaining a place of business in the State, who may lawfully purchase and receive delivery of a rifle or shotgun in this State, may purchase a rifle or shotgun in a contiguous state.  Such persons may transport or receive the same in the State, provided, that the sale meets the lawful requirements of each such state, meets all lawful requirements of any Federal statute, and is made by a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or licensed collector .  A person may not purchase a pistol from a dealer unless he is a resident of South Carolina.  However, the person need not be a resident if such person is on active duty in the United States military and is in possession of a current United States military identification card.

The main government office that deals with issues relating to firearms is:

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division,

Attn: Regulatory Services Unit,

P.O. Box 21398,

Columbia, South Carolina 29221.

Phone: 803-896-7014.

and

Attorney General,

Box 11549,

Columbia, South Carolina 29211.

Phone: (803) 734-3970

Fax: (803) 253-6283