Tennessee Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

In Tennessee, how is the term 'handgun' legally defined?

1. Any firearm with a barrel length of less than 12 inches

2. Only semi-automatic firearms

3. Any firearm capable of being concealed on the person

4. Only firearms used for sporting purposes

The correct answer is: Any firearm capable of being concealed on the person

The term 'handgun' in Tennessee is legally defined as any firearm capable of being concealed on the person. This definition highlights the key characteristic that distinguishes handguns from other types of firearms, such as rifles or shotguns, which typically have longer barrels and are not easily concealable. This definition is important for various legal considerations, including regulations surrounding concealed carry permits. The other interpretations do not encompass the full legal definition of a handgun in Tennessee. For instance, focusing solely on barrel length would exclude many handguns that are designed for concealment but may have barrels longer than the specified measurement. Additionally, limiting the definition to only semi-automatic firearms ignores revolvers and other types of handguns that are also consider concealable. Finally, restricting the definition to firearms used solely for sporting purposes does not accurately represent handguns, as they are often used for self-defense, law enforcement, and other purposes.