Knife Carrying Laws in Florida

Knife carrying laws were passed by the Florida Legislature in the year 1987. The form of the law is similar to that in other states. This law made it mandatory for the authorities to issue license for carrying knife or any kind of concealed weapon in order to avoid and reduce any kind of criminal acts.

Definition of a Weapon

According to section 790.001 of the state code of Florida, a 'weapon' is defined as any metallic knife, knuckles, dirk, tear gas gun, billie, slung shot, any chemical weapon, any weapon other than a common pocket knife or a firearm. Carrying any such weapon in open or concealed from others without a license is against the law. Carrying a concealed weapon or an electric weapon is a first degree offense while carrying a firearm is a third degree offense. However, if a person has a license of carrying such a weapon then the act is not a punishable crime in the eye of the law.

Carrying Weapons of Self Defence

There are certain weapons that have been categorised as weapon of self defence. Carrying any such weapon is not unlawful. It includes chemical sprays, non-lethal stun gun, remote stun gun and other non-lethal electric weapons. All of these weapons have been designed for the purpose of self-defence and hence pose no threat to the law and order situation. Thus a citizen can carry them without any license.

Getting License for Carrying Concealed Weapon or Firearm

A person who wants to carry a concealed weapon in Florida without being convicted needs to get proper license from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer services. This law falls under 'shall issue' laws and the issuing authority is bound by the regulations of the statutes for issuing them.

Carrying a concealed weapon with a license

With this license, a person can carry a concealed weapon like a knife or billie, handgun, tear gas gun or an electronic weapon anywhere in the state. This, however, does not include carrying a machine gun. Any of these concealed weapons cannot be carried to a school property or a school event and the citizen can be convicted for it. This license is valid for 5 years only and needs to be renewed afterward.

A person who shows any of these licensed weapons in a rude, angry or attacking manner can be convicted with the first degree criminal offense. Also carrying a licensed weapon open is also a punishable crime. Hence even if a person has a license, one needs to be careful of the rules and regulations for carrying them.

Rama Purushottam is a versatile writer. She has written articles on a variety of topics. To read more from the writer, visit http://socialmediaplusbusiness.blogspot.com/

Ninjutsu Martial Arts Training - Concealing and Carrying Your Weapons for Faster Drawing and Use

The art of Ninjutsu martial arts training is known for its number of weapons. Regardless of whether the weapon is designed to be concealed or not, the Ninja always seems to be able to get his weapon out much faster than his opponent.

In fact, one of the most common questions that I get, from everyday students as well as law enforcement and military professionals is, "what suggestions do you have for carrying my weapons for better concealment and use?"

This article offers a few suggestions - things to think about from a strategic standpoint, that will not only improve your weapons skills, but also get you thinking more like a Ninja about this and other areas of your training!

However, before I share with you some suggestions for carrying and concealing your weapons, I want to discuss a few other considerations first. These considerations will determine what, if any, of my suggestions, you will want to, or in some cases, be allowed to use.

Please note that the following points and questions are NOT limited to students in the law enforcement, security, or military fields. They are just as viable for everyone else. So, don't take them lightly, nor should you immediately assume that I'm "talking about someone else."

Some of the things that need to be considered, before we even begin to talk about how to carry or conceal your weapons are:

1) Are you mandated or required to carry the weapons and equipment that you have? What I mean is, do you have to use specific models and styles, or can you opt for something else instead?

2) Do you have to carry your weapons a certain way, or in a uniform place on your gun belt, tactical gear, etc? This, along with number 1 above, are common problems which police and security officers, and members of the armed services must contend with. Regardless of whether they have a personal preference, for whatever reason - policies and procedures are often in place which requires them to comply with the status quo, and "do it like everyone else."

3) Is there any other reason that you carry the weapon that you do? Reasons that may come to mind, or that may be true for you, might include the fact that, "it's the only one you've got," or "it's your favorite." You must be careful that you have not limited yourself unnecessarily to certain weapons because of "favorites," or because you think that they are the "official" weapon of your style!

Do you understand what I'm getting at?

If you must conform to rules, policies, or specific regulations which dictate how and what you are "allowed" to do; or, if you saddle yourself with self-imposed limitations, then you seriously diminish your ability to be as effective as you possibly can. And...

You can only be as fast or as effective as those conditions and "guidelines" allow you to be!

That being said, here are a few suggestions for carrying and concealing your weapons. Due to the fact that there are countless weapons that could be discussed, and the fact that I don't know what you have, these suggestions are offered in the way of "strategic suggestions," rather than specific instructions.

Okay?

Here are a few that come to mind off the top of my head as I write this:

1) Think about your build and the size, shape, and design of the weapon you're considering. When thinking about concealing this particular weapon, how can you position it so that it is not evident or obvious that you have it on you?

Remember to insure that your carry and concealment method does not change the way you walk or otherwise carry your body. Regardless of whether someone can see a weapon that you're concealing, doesn't mean that they won't suspect that you have one if you walk or move as if, to them, YOU DO!

2) When thinking about carrying a weapon for quicker access and bringing it into the fight faster, the best thing to think about is how you naturally move. You can also think about what types of situations you are likely to be in when you need to go for the weapon. And then, with this information in mind, carry the weapon "along the natural path" that your hand will be traveling so as to make grabbing and drawing it, as quick and as easy as possible!

3) If possible, also ignore conventional thought, or "the way everyone else does it." If you carry a handgun, whether you're a police officer or just a civilian with a carry permit, avoid carrying your backup magazines (clips) or "speed-loaders" (in the case of a revolver) at the front of your gun belt. I suggest carrying them in a place, and in a way, which allow for your arm to work naturally and quickly for both retrieving the ammunition from it's case, and for getting it into the waiting weapon!

4) Always opt for a smaller, less bulky or less obvious version if one is available. Never knowingly choose to carry and use something that takes more time to draw, get into the fight, or will give away the fact that you have it, when something better is available. Just not very Ninja-like at all!

Of course, each weapon has it's own specifics. The point here is not to do it like I would. But instead, to learn to think like a master warrior so that you can be the most effective, and have the greater advantage, in a hostile, life-threatening situation.

Are you serious about mastering the art of ninjutsu, or just curious about what gives this system its power? Do you want to know what it takes to progress through the levels of self defense mastery in this powerful martial art?

How? By insuring that your training is about strategic application of skill and skill proficiency - not just learning a bunch of "moves"! Get started by reading this valuable ninja training book, "Becoming The Master." Get your free copy at: http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/becoming-the-master-subsc.html

Jeffrey Miller is a master-teacher in the centuries-old art of Japan's ancient shadow warrior. Each month he shares his 30+ years of training, research, and knowledge - combined with his years of real-world experience using these teachings on the dangerous streets of our modern world - with literally thousands of students from all over the world. Shidoshi Miller says, "If you really want to learn ninjutsu, and become a master of the Ninja's arts, then I can show you the secrets for developing the power, confidence, and control of a true Ninja warrior!"

Carrying a Concealed Weapon

For many people, carrying a concealed weapon is one of their most important rights. Self-defense is crucial in many situations and being able to do so legally and effectively is very important. But there is some risk involved in carrying a weapon, no matter the legality of it. Being properly licensed and knowing the regulations that are associated with that license is an important responsibility of every person who carries a concealed weapon.
It is also crucial to know venues and locations in which it is always illegal to be carrying a gun. Each state has specific regulations concerning these locations, but all of them are intended to protect the best interests of every person. Two venues that guns are generally excluded from include most school campuses and large sporting events. In both of these situations, the misfire of a weapon or threatening brandishing of a weapon could cause a great deal of panic. To deal with this threat, carrying a handgun is completely illegal whether a person is properly licensed or not.
Many federal or governmental buildings also have restrictions concerning carrying weapons. Because of the sensitive nature of the operations of some of these buildings, safety is a primary concern. The safety of the people and information in these buildings is a high priority and generally important for public safety. These restrictions often include police stations and other public service stations as well. Carrying a gun on these premises can result in serious charges and consequences.
It is important for every person who carries a concealed weapon to be aware of the regulations of their state.

Possible Penalties For Carrying an Unlicensed Handgun

Gun laws are one of the mostly hotly contested topics in the legal spectrum today. Each state has their own gun laws, and in fact, many municipalities have laws in addition to those in place by their state. Ostensibly in place to protect the citizens of this country, the furor over gun control issues has often become so heated that it has erupted into violence. While nobody wants to be shot, it is up for grabs whether more or less gun control is needed in order to prevent shootings. Many of the laws are in place to help prevent children from gaining access to guns. Others are in place to prevent violent offenders from getting their hands on a gun. This is why most places require a license in order to carry a handgun.
Not unlike most laws in this country though, there are those that break them. At any given time, there are many, many people carrying unlicensed handguns. Some keep them in their cars, for fear of being carjacked in a bad neighborhood. Some people carry them, as protection from potential muggers. Whatever your reason for packing a gun, if it is unlicensed, there are some very stiff penalties that you could face, should you be caught. Ranging from fines to jail time, each state and again, many municipalities, have enacted laws and accompanying penalties to dissuade citizens from carrying unlicensed guns.
In New York City, the penalty for carrying an unlicensed handgun is jail time. The minimum sentence is 3.5 years, and the maximum sentence is 15. Just for carrying an unlicensed gun. This is not for shooting someone or even just discharging your weapon, this is for carrying it. Florida on the other hand is slightly more lenient. If you are caught carrying an unlicensed, concealed firearm, you are charged with a 3rd degree felony, which carries with it a maximum fine of $5000 and a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison.
If you own a gun, or are considering buying a gun, it is highly advisable that you learn all about the gun control laws in your state and municipality. With laws varying so widely, it is never enough to assume. If you plan to travel form your state with a weapon, it is also imperative that you familiarize yourself with the laws of wherever you may be visiting. The last thing that you would want to do is wind up in jail for 15 years because you were ignorant.

Advantages of Carrying Non-Lethal Weapons

Who hasn't, at one time or another, felt insecure or threatened by the possibility of becoming a victim of crime?

Have you ever been caught unawares as you were walking along the street and eyed a suspicious character coming your way? Perhaps you have even gone home and interrupted a burglary in progress. In either of these situations, it is easy to feel helpless and vulnerable.

The best way to be prepared to respond in the case of possible violence is to carry some type of non-lethal self defense weapon such as a stun gun. There are a number of reasons why this choice is preferable to carrying a traditional gun.

Cost

First, the cost of purchasing an electroshock weapon is far less than that of a traditional revolver or pistol. A good quality handgun can set you back in the hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.

Then there is the cost for ammunition - and the ability to keep the weapon loaded, locked and ready.

And lastly, most states require that anyone carrying a weapon also carry an appropriate permit. This, too, requires an outlay of money, not only for the license fees, but perhaps for training classes as well.

Convenience

A stun gun is more convenient all the way around. For one, you do not need to worry about keeping it out in the open, as is often the case in states that have laws against concealment (of course to be sure you are compliant with applicable laws, always check with your local authority).

A Phazzer or TASER gun weights far less than a bulky handgun. It is generally smaller, too, and of a size that will fit nicely into a purse, laptop case, or backpack. This also makes it easier to reach during an emergency when you need to get your hands on it right away.

Safety

Because electroshock guns are non-lethal weapons, they are safer. You needn't worry about the possibility of the criminal taking it from your grip and using it on you with disastrous results. Nor do you need to be concerned with the possibility of killing someone. A stun gun is a great self defense weapon that keeps the owner safe but limits liability.

You do not need to take a self defense course in order to learn how to use a stun gun, either. For the most part, it is point and click.

As you can see, there are many advantages to carrying a personal self defense weapon such as a stun gun over a traditional handgun. When it comes to your safety and security, don't be caught unprepared. Arm yourself with a handy, inexpensive, and effective way to thwart a violent crime today.

Protect yourself by purchasing a non-lethal weapon from Phazzer Technologies. Visit the online store and learn more about this safer way to keep yourself self.

The 4 Categories of "Carrying of a Concealed Weapon" Laws

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed. The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution was adopted in 1791 with the intention of giving every American the right to legally own firearms. Despite the endless attempts by politicians to destroy this right, most States in our great Union still respect the right of the individual to legally own and carry concealed weapons.
Our Founders were strong advocates in States' rights and, thankfully, the Federal Government has yet to legislatively intrude on our 2nd Amendment right. To date, 48 States have passed individual laws allowing, in some respect, citizens to carry certain firearms in public. Each State has its own laws that are enforceable by huge fines and even jail time if they're not abided by so it is extremely important that every individual be aware of these laws.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon Regulations will differ between each state, but each state generally falls into one of four categories. The four categories are listed as follows:
Unrestricted - Also known as "Constitutional Carry," Unrestricted states do not require a permit to carry a concealed handgun.
Shall Issue - Shall Issue states require a person to have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. The permit is approved or declined if specific criteria are met, i.e. criminal background check, age, paying a fee, etc. If a person meets the specific criteria, they will be approved a permit - the issuing authority does not have the authority to deny a permit based on their own discretion.
May Issue - May Issue states require a person to have a permit and, similar to Shall Issue states, require certain criteria be met before being approved for the permit to CCW. However, May Issue states are more stringent. The local government (usually a County or City) that will be issuing the permit has discretion to approve or deny any applicant even if the specific criteria are met.
No Issue - No Issue states do not allow any person to carry a concealed firearm.
The complexity of Concealed Carry Laws are constantly changing, but I have broken down each state into one of the above 4 categories below.
Unrestricted (Constitutional Carry): Alaska, Arizona, Montana (Outside of City limits), Vermont, Wyoming (as of July 1, 2011)
Shall Issue: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
*States that are both Shall Issue and Unrestricted states may allow citizens to carry without a permit, but will often grant permits to individuals who wish to have it for reciprocity reasons.
May Issue: Alabama, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island
No Issue: District of Columbia, Hawaii*, Illinois, New Jersey*, Wisconsin
*Technically May Issue states, but in reality they will not issue permits.
The laws regarding the concealed carry of handguns get more complicated by the day and will continue to change according to individual state laws. Because of this, I strongly suggest that each individual regularly visit our site and contact their local government authority to find out the exact details and laws regarding gun permits. I hope this information has helped educate you on your rights under the 2nd amendment.