Many of you out there would like to carry a gun but are not really sure where to start. I will outline the process and then it’s up to you to research where you live and get the details.
Are you a gun person? If you are a gun person then choosing your weapon should be an easy task. If you are not, you should research and ask someone who knows. In picking a gun, many gun ranges will let you rent guns. Some gun shops will do the same. Doing this will give you an opportunity to shoot several types and calibers of guns.
Training: Find and get training. If you’re not sure where to get trained, go to your local gun store or check out the internet. Another good source for this info is a gun club. The best source would be someone you know. Most people can find or already knows a gun nut. Check your Elder’s Quorum. There’s usually someone with this information of where the best place would be for gun training. In fact, the gun nut might be the person to teach you. As long as you trust them and are comfortable with them. Ask around and you’ll be pointed in the right direction. Maybe there is someone in law enforcement (LE) in your Ward. They can be a great resource. If you’re not a gun person, the first training you need is safety. Learn the 4 safety rules and practice them. After this training, practice, practice, practice. If your state has a shooting requirement, this is what you should practice. Most states standards are not really difficult. Also, familiarize yourself with your weapon. How does it work? How would you clean it? Your training is very important. Once you get your license it’s equally important to continue to train and practice. After you get competent with your weapon seek a higher level of training. Perhaps some tactical training would be appropriate at that point.
There is only one state that I know of that will give you a license with just fingerprints, proof of taking a course of competency (online or otherwise). Virginia will send you a packet for doing this. Virginia licenses are recognized in 26 states so this may work for you depending on where you live. State laws change often so before you do this, make sure it’s all going to work in your state and that Virginia still does this. Check your state’s website for information, regulations, and fees.
http://www.usacarry.com/concealed_carry_permit_information.html
The above website will show you which states your permit is good in. It also shows what the requirements are for each state including fees.
If you decide to get a permit from another state you can get that states fingerprint cards and go to your own law enforcement agency to get this accomplished. Some places charge a fee and some don’t. Some training courses will do it all. They will walk you through the process, give you all the necessary forms and applications, and even take your fingerprints. If it’s not included in your course, become familiar with the carry laws in your state. Stay aware of any law changes that may occur. Learn the best and safest way to inform and hand over your weapon to LE if you are pulled over when armed. Laws vary from state to state and LE officers all react differently when informed you are armed. Be ready to safely hand over your weapon upon request.
Mindset: To carry a weapon all the time takes a certain kind of thinking. If you have a temper then that must change. You must be aware of what is going on around you so that you can stay away from danger or of having to use that weapon. You are now different. Carrying is a serious endeavor that requires a responsibility like no other. By doing so, you have to come to terms with violence. You may have to kill someone to stop them from being a threat to you or someone else. Always remember that. You don’t want to use that weapon, but if you must, then you need to be prepared for that.
Holsters: Where and how will you carry your weapon? Do research this. Ask those you know who carry. You’ll likely go through some holsters trying to find what works for you. Once you decide how you will carry, practice drawing with these holsters. Ensure you do this safely. Retention of your weapon is a primary concern.
Those are the basics. Remember that carrying a gun is a right and a privilege. The Founding Fathers felt the right came from God. As do I.
Semper Paratus
Burn
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