What is the minimum age to legally purchase a rifle in most states?

The minimum age to legally purchase a rifle in most states is 18 years old. This legal age is set by federal law, specifically under the Gun Control Act of 1968, which stipulates that individuals must be at least 18 to buy a long gun, which includes rifles and shotguns. This regulation reflects the general legal age for adults in many contexts and is designed to balance accessibility with public safety. While some states may impose stricter regulations or higher minimum ages for certain types of firearms, the federal law provides the baseline that most states adhere to. This is an important aspect of understanding firearm regulations, as variations can exist at the state level, but the federal guideline establishes the minimum standard.