JOHNSTON, Iowa — A new state law went into effect on Tuesday of this week that allows 18-year-olds to carry and purchase a handgun.

That is down from the original age of 21. But just because state law is changed, federal regulations still apply.

“That’s the irony of all of this, it does nothing for us as a gun store owner,” said Dave Bloom, owner of CrossRoads Shooting Sports in Johnston. “Everything is exactly the same as it was two days ago.”

Gun stores are still not allowed to sell a handgun to an 18-year-old in Iowa, due to the requirement of stores having to register as a federal firearm licensee. And federal law does not allow anyone under 21 to purchase a handgun. But the state law will allow 18-year-olds to buy a handgun in a private transaction or transfer.

“So the law does allow for a gift. So if I wanted to gift my son, who was 18, a handgun I could do that now,” said Bloom. “But my son, as an 18-year-old, cannot come and buy one from my shop.”

18-year-olds are also allowed to carry a handgun according to state law. But if an 18-year-old walked into CrossRoads Shooting Sports looking to shoot at the range, a legal guardian or a spouse who is 21 years old would have to supervise.

18-year-olds can still purchase long-barrel guns at a gun store or gun show, like a shotgun or rifle. However, unlike a 21-year-old buying a long barrel and walking out of the store with it the same day, 18-year-olds have a ten-day waiting period before the gun is physically in their possession.

Bloom said that the differences between state and federal regulations present challenges for gun store owners, as it is following two different sets of rules.