I am a California native, currently attending school in Utah, and have been considering getting a Concealed Carry License as a non-resident of the State. In doing research, however, it appears that, because I am a legal resident of California, I cannot purchase a gun in Utah. Now, I am aware, that it is legal for a private citizen (not a licensed gun retailer) to purchase a firearm as a gift for someone else, as long as that someone else is not a convicted felon. What I'm wondering then, is whether it would be legal for, say, my wife, a Utah resident, to purchase a gun on my behalf?
1 Answer
If you cannot legally purchase a gun in Utah due to any restriction, such as residency, and you engage someone else to knowingly buy or gift you a gun (such as a "straw man" purchase from a dealer or private sale), that is illegal.
From the same link you posted (my emphasis):
Can I buy a firearm as a gift for someone?
Yes, as long as the receiver is not a prohibited person and the gifting is not being used to circumvent a background check or other laws. Calling a purchase intended in place of another is a straw purchase.