How to Legally Conceal a Handgun
The legalities of carrying a concealed handgun differ from state to state. It is the individual's responsibility to understand the laws in his state before opting to carry a weapon in public, and also to know the laws in any other jurisdiction before traveling there. Carrying a firearm, concealed or unconcealed, in and of itself poses certain risks, and it is up to the individual to weigh those risks against the possibility that the firearm will be needed for self-defense.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Legalities
-
1
Verify that your state allows private citizens to carry concealed weapons. Also verify that the city in which you reside, or wish to carry your weapon, does not have more restrictive laws than the state. For example, if one has an unrestricted license to carry a firearm in New York State, that person is still prohibited from carrying the weapon into New York City without an additional permit.
-
2
Learn your state's restrictions regarding particular places where you may not carry your weapon. All states prohibit carrying weapons into Federally owned buildings. However, many states also prohibit carrying your concealed weapon into a public park, sports arena, school, into establishments where alcohol is served, and in other specified locations.
-
-
3
Carefully study your state's laws on the the use of deadly force in self-defense. These laws also vary from state to state. For example, some states require you to retreat from a conflict if physically possible, while other states do not. Furthermore, self-defense laws are often applied differently in regard to an incident that occurs in a person's home and an incident that occurs in a public place.
-
4
Hold yourself to a higher standard while carrying. Regardless of your state's specific laws, carrying a firearm on your person places you at greater legal risk than when you are not carrying. Your state of mind should be that using, or even drawing your weapon, is a last resort. You must be in charge of your emotions, and never allow a heated exchange to cause you to draw your weapon. Consciously avoid areas and situations which you perceive to be dangerous, just as you would when you are not carrying. Keep in mind that even if you are defending your life, if an innocent bystander is hurt or killed by your stray shot, you may be liable. Also use extreme discretion in using your weapon to protect others, especially those whom you do not know personally. A conflict between two strangers can easily appear to be more serious than it is. Remember that you are under no obligation to defend others just because you are carrying.
-
5
Avoid alcohol while carrying. Not only is it illegal, even a small amount impairs your judgment, which is just as important while carrying as it is while driving.
Practicalities
-
6
Train yourself rigorously. Get to know your carry weapon very well. Every aspect of its function should become second nature. Go to the range regularly to practice, and take a firearms self-defense class if you have not taken one before. Even if you are an experienced shooter, you will likely learn something new that could save your life.
-
7
Be selective about when you carry. Having a concealed carry permit does not obligate you to carry it everywhere, or every time you go out in public.
-
8
Experiment with different carry methods to find one that fits you, your weapon, and the way you dress. Your carry method should make your weapon quickly accessible, should not interfere in ordinary movement, and also should not be uncomfortable to wear. Most of all, however, it should feel intuitive to you. Be aware that carrying a weapon at the small of your back, while very effective at concealing, presents a serious danger. If you happen to fall on your back, paralysis can result.
-
9
Choose ammunition that will be less likely to penetrate walls, or pass all the way through your target and hit someone else. Options for this include using lower-velocity rounds (less gunpowder) or selecting jacketed, hollow-point bullets, if available, for your weapon. At the same time, choose a caliber that is large enough to incapacitate a threat with one or two shots.
-
10
Take it slow when your first begin to carry your weapon. Remember, this is real life, and not a spy movie. Having a permit does not automatically make you an expert. Give yourself time to become comfortable with carrying, and make certain that you understand how carrying in certain circumstances could be a disadvantage.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
When using a public restroom while carrying, remember to remove your weapon once you close the door to the stall and put it in a safe place. Otherwise, your firearm could fall to the floor when you lower your pants, or worse still; it could slide into another stall.
