How to Promote Responsible Concealed Carry: First Steps
The new Concealed Reciprocity legislation has forced all states to accept the concealed carry permits of other states. This act has also shone a light of the question of responsible concealed carry.
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How can we as individuals encourage responsible concealed carry?
If you personally want to commit to being a responsible concealed carrier, there are some things you can do.
- Enrol in an NRA Handgun Safety Course
Besides knowing how to shoot accurately, as a responsible concealed carrier you need to know how to maintain, carry, and store a handgun.
The National Rifle Association sponsors handgun safety courses in many areas. Locate one near you and learn safe operation and storage of your weapon.
- Sign up for Training Course
Even if your state does not require you to take a course in handling a handgun safely, be responsible. Sign up for the course. Local laws often vary widely about what is required to get a concealed carry permit or even to purchase a weapon. Take the initiative over and above requirements.
- Find a Marksmanship Instructor
Visit a firing range and look for an accredited instructor. Learn what courses he/she offers in accurate shooting. Some are single day courses. Others are held on multiple weekends. Ask about class size and one-on-one instruction.
Ask what firearms the instructor has and whether you are expected to bring your own weapon and/or ammunition. If the instructor supplies weapons for you to try out, this is a good way to find out which work best for you before you purchase a weapon.
- Do your homework before you buy
Too many overly enthusiastic would-be concealed carriers are new to the world of handguns. The danger is that they gravitate toward weapons that are showy but not practical.
Novice concealed carry enthusiasts get hooked on things like fancy wood grips when they ought to be focused on things like the right weight of the handgun, ease of operation, good grip.
Before you buy, try several types of guns. Get yourself a good instructor who will guide you to choosing the handgun that’s right for you.
Consider things like the gun that is easiest for practical concealment.
A good beginner choice, for example is the Glock 34, for accurate shooting. But it’s not as easily carried regularly als the Glock 43.
Try Before You Buy
Before you tuck that concealed carry pistol into your waistband you should have tried several alternative pistols. A course in gun safety, a course in marksmanship and/or good advice from a reputable gun dealer will help you make your best decision.
You need a chance to carry your weapon and to “test fire”. Find a facility that lets you do both.
You may find the gun that looks great in a display case or in someone else’s grip but isn’t the right fit your hand. Yes this takes time. But it’s worth the effort. Get it right from the start.
