How do New York’s gun laws differ from other states?

In New York, you must obtain a permit and pass a rigorous background check for all gun purchases. In most states, buying a gun from a private seller — in a classified ad or online — does not require a permit or passing a background check, Mr. Skaggs said. In New York, even if you meet the requirements to purchase a gun, law enforcement may still deny you. Also, if your gun is lost or stolen, you are required to report it to the police.

What are the state’s rules for owning assault weapons?

Under the 2013 Safe Act, passed after the 2012 mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School, New York prohibits the purchase or possession of large-capacity magazines and assault-style weapons (unless you owned the gun before January 2013). Other semiautomatic weapons, in which the trigger must be pulled to fire each bullet, are legal in New York, but you cannot legally purchase a magazine that holds more than 10 rounds. In Nevada, and much of the country, Mr. Skaggs said, magazine capacities are not regulated.

Are the laws in New York City different than the state?

Yes. The city’s permitting and licensing requirements “are among the strongest in the country,” Mr. Skaggs said. New York City has its own regulations, which include filing a 17-page handgun license application form, along with a host of documents in person. The Police Department interviews all applicants. The safe-storage requirement in the city is stricter than the state: All guns in the city must be secured with a safety-locking device when not in use.

How many handgun licenses are there in New York City?

In New York City, 41,162 people have licenses to possess firearms, according to the Police Department. Around 22,500 of these licenses are issued to security guards, or to individuals who have handguns in their businesses or homes. Aside from retired law enforcement officers, there are fewer than 2,500 people who have full carry permits, which allow them to carry a handgun around the city anywhere they are permitted.