Carrying a gun on your person is a heavy responsibility for any individual. Making sure that you are in compliance with state and local gun laws, as well as making sure that you are psychologically prepared for the responsibility that you are taking up, are important factors to consider before you decide to carry a gun on your person. Since state laws vary widely, you will want to be sure that you follow the procedures in your state exactly before you begin carrying a gun, as carrying a firearm without a permit can be a serious and costly criminal offense.
Understanding Rules for Carrying a Gun
Some states are what are called “shall issue” states with regards to concealed weapons permits. An example of one such shall issue state is Pennsylvania.
- If you are not a convicted criminal and are legally able to purchase a gun, and you apply for a concealed weapons permit, the local law enforcement office is required to issue you the permit and cannot deny you.
- These states are typically the easiest states to apply for concealed weapons permits in.
- There are still restrictions in these states as to where you can and cannot carry – Pennsylvania, for example, prohibits carry in schools, government buildings, and bars – but for the most part you are free to carry anywhere, and at any time.
Maryland is a different type of state, which issues concealed carry permits based on verifiable need for self-protection. Examples of reasons that would allow you to receive a Maryland concealed carry permit are:
- You engage in business involving large amounts of cash and making cash deposits;
- You have been threatened at least three times in the previous few months and this can be verified by a police report, or
- You have some other reason which would require you to have a concealed weapon for self-defense.
- It is much harder to get a concealed weapon permit in Maryland.
Whether or not your state allows concealed carry, there are many states that allow open carry, or carrying a firearm on your person so that it is visible to anyone. Pennsylvania, for example allows open carry under state law; however, if someone becomes upset and contacts the police because they see you carrying a gun, you may be charged with brandishing a firearm or creating a nuisance, depending on the officer who responds.
Getting Help
In any case, knowing and studying your state laws regarding carrying firearms on your person is vital if you are planning to begin carrying a firearm for self defense. Speaking with a qualified attorney in your state before carrying a gun on your person might be a good idea as your lawyer can fully explain your rights.
