North Carolina courts have held that art. I, § 30 protects the ability of individuals to bear arms for defense of self and property.A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. The people have a right to the privilege of education, and it is the duty of the State to guard and maintain that right. Sec. 16. It is unlawful for any person under 18 to possess or carry a handgun. 1. This petition must be filed in the district court of the North Carolina county where you reside. 2. Allows law enforcement (and often family members) to petition for a court order to temporarily prevent someone in crisis from accessing guns. In North Carolina, anyone over the age of 18 can purchase and own a rifle or a shotgun and can purchase and own a handgun if they are over 21. "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed. The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution states that "the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.