Montana Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Is a background check required for a private gun sale at a gun show in Montana?

1. Yes, always

2. No, not required

3. Yes, but only for handguns

4. Yes, if the seller is a licensed dealer

The correct answer is: No, not required

In Montana, a background check is not required for a private gun sale at a gun show. This reflects the state's laws regarding private sales, where individuals do not need to undergo background checks when purchasing firearms from private sellers, even in the context of a gun show. This law emphasizes the distinction between private sales and transactions conducted through licensed dealers, the latter of which do require background checks as mandated by federal law. This lack of requirement for private sales at gun shows allows for more straightforward transactions between private individuals. In this context, the other choices would imply conditions under which a background check might be needed, but Montana's laws specifically exempt private sellers from having to perform such checks during private transactions, even in public settings like gun shows.