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What is Concealed Carry

Concealed carry or CCW (carrying a concealed weapon) is when a person is carrying a weapon, often a pistol , on or in close proximity to their person .  Concealed carry supporters feel that CCW is a right entrusted to them by the Constitution via the 2nd Amendment – the right to “bear arms” as it is oft called .   

State Laws    

Over the past 30 years concealed carry laws have become commonplace , although laws differ quite a bit depending on what state you’re in .  Most states hold a “Shall-Issue” policy, which means that if a citizen meets the requirements, they will be given a concealed carry permit.  Wisconsin and Illinois are the only two states that impose “No-Issue”, where they do not allow people to obtain any kind of permit to carry .  “May-Issue” is the third status, where granting a permit is for the most part at the discretion of the local government, such as the Sheriff’s Department.  Alaska, Vermont, and Arizona are the most favorable toward gun rights with an “Unrestricted” status where each citizen has the right to carry .  

The Choice to Carry

There are many things to consider when starting to carry a pistol .  The first thing to find out is how to get a permit.  Secondly, you need to select a weapon – usually a conceal carry pistol.  ultimately, you’ll want to think about what your motivation is for carrying a weapon.  Many carry for general self defense or home security, others to exercise their rights.

Getting a Permit

State laws govern concealed carry so you need to be aware of the laws in your individual state .  In most states you need to take a training class that goes over local law, how to operate a handgun, etc .  You can expect to complete a comprehensive application that will likely include fingerprinting and photographs.  Your state will typically run a background check on you to ensure you do not have any felonies or violent crimes in your history.

Selecting a Handgun

There are two main types of handguns used for concealed carry, revolvers and semi-automatics.  Revolvers can be very compact and lightweight and are dependable in any situation.  Semi-automatics typically have a higher capacity magazine, allowing you to carry more rounds of ammunition in your pistol.  Reloading is quicker and easier with a semi-automatic as well.  You should select the largest caliber gun that you can comfortably shoot .  Keep in mind that the larger the round with a smaller gun can experience quite a kick!  

Selecting a Holster

Regardless of what gun you select , you will also have to pick one of the many conceal carry holsters that fit your gun.  There are two types of holsters: Inside the Waistband (IWB) and Outside the Waistband (OWB).  It’s best to try out a couple options at a sporting goods store to get a feel for each.  Choose a holster that permits you to conceal based on your typical wardrobe and is also comfortable to wear.  Keep in mind that it will take some wearing to adjust to the surplus weight and bulk of carrying a pistol on a regular basis.        

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