Yeah, the problem here is essentially "when does a temporary loan become a more permanent transfer?" There isn't a problem with loaning out a handgun temporarily, IMHO (albeit you could not rent it!). If you defined the duration of the loan in writing (even if it were just an email) as like "one month", I think that would probably solve the issue.
Of course, this all assumes the friend can legally possess a handgun...
Wasn't the definition of Transfer decided by: CHOW v. STATE
"We find that the temporary gratuitous exchange or loan of a regulated handgun between two adult individuals, who are otherwise permitted to own and obtain a regulated handgun, does not constitute an illegal “transfer” of a firearm... ..."
IANAL, but it seems like this defines a transfer as being different than a "temporary gratuitous exchange or loan."
https://caselaw.findlaw.com/md-court-of-appeals/1123356.html
Part of me wants to say it is a bad idea... but part of me wants to say, quit caring about stupid unconstitutional restrictions. Adults will need to make up their own minds about things.
It’s all in The Who the friend is to me and it would be under my lock in key at the end of the day. Believe this question actually came up during my HQL course, and I believe the instructed said that as long as it’s in your possession at the end of the day, you would be okay. But this also could have been about someone’s spouse. It’s been a minute since my course so details are fuzzy!
This is 100% bad information. You need an HQL to posses a handgun in MD. Period. Under no circumstances should you ever lend another individual a handgun in the state of MD- or anywhere for that matter. Sure we all have friends we love and trust, but it's just a dumb idea all around that has little to no upside.
The *only* exception to this rule is letting someone, under your direct supervision, use your firearm. Other than that- not worth risking losing your rights for the rest of your life.
Unless otherwise exempt, as of October 1, 2013, a Maryland resident must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License before he/she may purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. Details on exemptions may be found below. You do not need a Handgun Qualification License to own a gun you already have. The Handgun Qualification License is only needed for purchasing, transferring, or renting a regulated firearm after October 1, 2013.
This is 100% bad information. You need an HQL to posses a handgun in MD. Period.
So you “loan” a friend a gun. Is he a prohibited person? How will he secure the weapon while in his house? Does he have any children? Are you aware that if that weapon is involved in any infraction or altercation or stolen YOU will be responsible. Is it worth the risk?
Amazing