I dont know if this is the right forum or not, so might need be redirected. I have a friend that wants to hunt with me. He has a felony dating back almost 40 years that only involved probation. I know they can only use black powder using the old ramrod models. my question is, what about the time when they ride with me to hunting lease since I will be using a bolt action rifle in the caliber I choose that day. does my legal rifle also need to be stored separately? This is a dear old friend that has paid his dues for a lack of judgement.

That’s a question for an attorney, not a bunch of strangers who will spout off opinions backed up with no real knowledge

That is a good question that I have never heard discussed. Forty years ago, is a long time. Game warden could probably answer for you.

I called TPW, read some articles by them also and still cant get a definite answer, it's always ask somebody else. I was hoping there were some LEOs, especially Game Wardens on here for advice.

Is it your own culpability, or his that you're concerned about? What does your friend have to say about it? 40 years, he should have a clear understanding of what constitutes possession, and his level of comfort with his freedom being in jeopardy. If you're worried about your own responsibility for his exposure to your rifle, why take him to begin with? Interesting situation.

Seems easier to just hunt with a couple crossbows.

Or someone else.

after my latest phone call to TPW, I was told to clarify with local Sheriffs Dept. I figured the Game Wardens would have an answer. I do know he can hunt with a pre 1899 black powder rifle (replica).....may be best to leave our firearms at the lease locked up.

He can have it expunged and can hunt with anything he wants. Will take an attorney and a few dollars.

Call an atf branch and ask specifically what constitutes possession. Explain the situation, I’m sure you’ll have your answers with confidence in short order.

Put your rifle in a locked gun case and you keep possession of the only key while you’re traveling and in camp. Any peace officer will be impressed with the effort you have taken to clearly show it’s in your possession.

I hunted a camp with one and trigger locks were used on the modern firearms in vehicle and while at camp. That was 30 years or more ago. Same basic principle.

This if he's serious about clearing it up.

https://www.bhwlawfirm.com/firearm-possession-by-felon-texas/#:~:text=What%20does%20it%20mean%20to,%2C%20custody%2C%20control%20or%20management.


According to this, it would be risky at best form a legal standpoint

I finally talked to Sheriff dept..all good to go. Asking questions helps. His gun stays with him, mine is secured and after all these years may be a non issue.

It will be an officer discretion thing, but like ntxtrapper said, your efforts could help both of you. Something else a lot of convicted felons aren't aware of, if the offense he was convicted of is no longer a classified as a felony it doesn't count as a felony for these purposes. One example would be Burglary of a Vehicle. It was a felony years ago but it's now a misdemeanor. May be something to look into. Of course, that's state law, the feds don't recognize that provision.

Don't associate with convicted felons and there will be no issues.

He who is without sin should cast the first stone...

Exactly. What's the motivation to post that, after the issue's been resolved and the OP says he's had his question answered? Just to show the world what a @#!* you are I guess.

Blah, blah, blah....kick rocks.

Don't do the crime if you can't do the time and deal with he consequences of your actions.

Wow.

There are few of us who if monitored through life are innocent. Oh wait, it’s actually just one. Is that you Jesus? Are you back?

Ever drink and drive? Even once. Have a wreck, automatic felony. Oh you innocent soul.

I don't think anyone is asking that he shouldn't do the time or deal with the consequences.

You just seem sensitive...that time of the month?

I call it like I see it and I see the truth upsets people. If it hurts a few "man-gina" feelings...oh well, too bad, I could care less. No one is completely innocent, I'm not a convicted felon nor do I associate with folks that are. You do you! Have a great day.