Lending rifles and shotguns is typically fine, as long as both parties aren't prohibited from owning/using guns. Pistols are where permits and licenses matter.

You would not be held responsible for your father, if you did not know his intent, and he was legally able to buy/use/own guns. You should use extreme precaution lending guns, always. Again - pistols are a different matter, both parties need to be able to legally carry one, according to the rules of the state they're in.

If you want to own guns, start with your state. They will have the steps necessary to do so on their website. You may have to pass some safety training, deal with a waiting period, and pass a background check. It's a lot less painful than it sounds. My record is clear, I have no mental issues, never been admitted to a psych ward, etc, so i can go out tomorrow and buy a rifle or shotgun with few worries. (I own a gun) I want a pistol, and it's on my list to get that done in the very near future, I've already started the paperwork for my state.