Concealed Weapons Permits in Arizona

Arizona recently passed the "Constitutional Carry Bill," a law allowing citizens to carry concealed weapons in public without a permit. It would seem that there is now no reason to get a permit, right? Wrong. In reality, there are many benefits to obtaining a permit. In this article I will describe the process to get a concealed weapons permit, and in the next article I'll describe the benefits to having a permit versus not having one.

First, to get a concealed weapons permit in Arizona you must meet a few basic qualifications. You may not be a felon, must be over the age of 21, not be deemed mentally infirm by the court, and you must not have a domestic abuse conviction (misdemeanor or not). You must complete a training course, ran by a private school, which lasts at least eight hours and covers a specific curriculum provided by the state. Next, an applicant must have their fingerprints documented by someone licensed by the state. They will submit proof of training and identification and their fingerprint cards to the Department of Public Safety along with a $60 application fee. As Arizona is a "shall issue" state, as long as all their ducks are in a row the permit will be issued and mailed out quickly. Turnaround is generally 2-4 weeks from door to door.

The courses cover a variety of topics. The first few hours are spent on nomenclature and definitions, the basics of understanding a handgun and how it works. Many courses will explain the pros and cons of each type of weapon, for example automatics versus revolvers. As there are also many different methods of carrying a concealed weapon, classes will review this as well and analyze which solutions work best for which situations.

Another important section to be reviewed is the weapons safety rules. Treat every weapon as if it were loaded, never point a weapon at anything you do not intend to destroy, keep your weapon on safe (if applicable) and your finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to fire, know your target and what lies beyond it, and maintain control of you firearm are the five modern weapons safety rules.

After the safety brief, there will be a mandatory qualification exercise. Every student in the class will have to fire ten rounds at a short distance at a man-shaped target. They must strike the target with a high percentage. It is generally impossible to fail this test due to marksmanship as it is at a very close range, this is effectively just a test of basic understanding of the weapon.

The next few hours are spent on the legalities of concealed weapons carry and self defense. There are many legal intricacies which determine where you may and may not carry a weapon, and general guidelines for what you should do if you have to use a weapon in defense of yourself or another.

In my next article, I'll explain the benefits to having a concealed weapons permit versus relying on the "Constitutional Carry Law" recently enacted.

Cias Hart is a veteran and resident of Arizona. If you have been charged with a crime relating to carry a concealed weapon, contact a criminal attorney in Phoenix immediately. A criminal lawyer in Phoenix can represent your interests in court and ensure that you are not charged falsely due to the intricacies of concealed weapons carry in the state of Arizona.

Concealed Carry - Getting Started

Do you know what lurks around that next corner? I don't either. Have you ever thought of getting a permit to carry a concealed handgun?
On April 16, 2007 a horrific tragedy took place on the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Thirty two students and professors were murdered and many more injured in a senseless act of violence. This forever changed the way that I view the world. My wife and I are both Hokie alumni. We still have close ties with Virginia Tech and the Blacksburg community. It is with this in mind that I write this article.
On that day, my sheltered world became an unrealistic dream of the past. I vowed that day that I would do everything I could to prepare myself for such an event. Of course, I hope never to find myself in a situation where deadly force is a consideration, but, it never hurts to try to prepare yourself.
So, where do you start? For me the first step was to get a permit to carry a concealed weapon. I've been a hunter my entire life so I was no stranger to firearms. However, a concealed carry permit was a new ball game. I went to the local gun shop and talked to the staff. They quickly filled me in on the following details:
1. Satisfactory completion of a concealed carry class or a hunter's safety class.

2. Take your Certificate of Completion to the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the locality in which you reside.

3. Fill out the Application for a Concealed Carry Permit

4. Go to the Police Department to get finger printed

5. Wait 30 days for the circuit court judge to approve/deny the permit.
That's it. I was thinking I was going to be interrogated as to my "need" or "desire" for the permit. Nothing could be farther from what happened. Keep in mind that this process ONLY pertains to Virginia. However, I have found that many other states have very similar processes.
I consider myself an "average Joe". I'm fairly laid back and usually light hearted. For me a permit to carry a concealed weapon was a logical first step. For many it's not. If you are unsure I would encourage you to go to your local shooting range and talk to the staff there. They will give you valuable advice and rent you a firearm that will fit your needs. You can shoot as many as you need until you find what works best for you. As a side note, when my wife decided she wanted to go through the process I took her to the range. At the time she had an overwhelming anxiety towards firearms. After the first shot I could see tears welling up in her eyes so I started to pack up and get ready to leave. Much to my surprise, she wanted to stay and keep shooting. Now she shoots better than I do. My hope is that if you do decide to pursue that option you gather as much information as possible. Weigh all the pros and cons and then decide. The decision should not be taken lightly nor should the training and education that goes along with it.
I will be posting additional articles pertaining to carry options, self defense, and non-lethal force. Be well.

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.

Concealed Firearm Laws in Wisconsin

Just about every state in the United States allows its citizens to carry a concealed firearm if he or she has a permit to do so. Wisconsin is one of the exceptions. Residents of Wisconsin cannot apply for or receive concealed firearm permits because they do not exist.
Though citizens are not allowed to conceal their guns, they still may own them. In that regard, Wisconsin has lax rules. Individuals do not need a license or permit to purchase a gun in Wisconsin, regardless of whether the gun is a shotgun, rifle, or even a handgun.
In addition to Wisconsin citizens being unable to acquire concealed handgun permits, the state does not recognize out of states permits. This means that an individual from another state cannot conceal his or her firearm in public if he or she visits Wisconsin.
Though these permits are valid in other states, they are not valid in Wisconsin. As such, individuals who are caught concealing firearms may be charged with breaking Wisconsin's concealed handgun laws and may have to face trial.
The punishment for concealed guns usually depends on how many times an individual is caught possessing a concealed firearm. For first time offenders, it is a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by a maximum of 9 months in prison and no more than a $10,000 fine.
Multiple offenders may face heavier punishments, including felony charges. Individuals who are charged with breaking this law, regardless of how many times they have done so, may face prison time, so they should hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to handle their cases.


UPDATE:  Michigan CCW holders have now been granted permission to carry concealed in Wisconsin.  We'll have an updated article on this new legislation in the near future.  Be sure to read it and share it with others.  It is very important information.

Concealed Handgun Fanny Pack - The Fanny Pack For Your Gun

Firearms such as handguns should be concealed at all times if you are in a public place even if you are licensed to possess them. But instead of keeping them in your pockets or carrying them with a holster, you can opt to carry them around inside a concealed handgun fanny packs for extra security.

A fanny packs for guns

The fanny pack holster is a small pouch made of fabric that you wear around your waist. It resembles a typical fanny packs but has a hidden compartment for your gun. The concealed handgun fanny pack is a better alternative to shoulder, ankle, and waistband holsters and the ordinary holster as well. Aside from guns, you can also place other items in it like a regular fanny packs including loose change, keys, IDs, etc.

Hide your gun well

Fanny pack holsters come in two styles: the gun compartment and the pouch. The former boasts a gun compartment concealed by a front pouch that is detachable while the latter positions your gun in a convenient and ready position. The pouch lets you pull out your gun easily while the compartment requires you to pull back the pouch to reveal where the gun is before you can pull it out. They are also usually available in dark colors to achieve a discreet or professional look.

The size and material matter

Whichever you are choosing, be sure that the internal holster is big enough to accommodate any type of pistol. A fanny pack holster that is made of fabric should consist of 1200 Denier Nylon for durability and water resistance.

Licensed to own

Take note that the concealed handgun fanny packs is commonly sold to law enforcement officers. If you are a private citizen, you need to have a CCW before you can buy one. Basically, it is illegal to bring along a concealed handgun.

Important information

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Is Concealed Carry Practical for Self-Defense?

Concealed carry (also known as CCW) allows you to conceal a weapon, usually a handgun, on your person. Many believe this is a logical form of self-defense but is it practical?
Carrying a concealed weapon can be practical if you can handle the weapon, know your local laws, and have a concealed carry permit. More importantly you should be prepared to defend yourself and know other options before you use your handgun.
Understanding the ramifications of carrying a concealed weapon is also important. Handguns may be taken away from you and used against you. If you are not proficient with a handgun you may hurt an innocent bystander or worse, kill them.
Practical self-defense relies on awareness, the tools you have at hand, and your ability to make proper decisions under serious situations. Concealed carry gives you an option other than trying to fend off a would be attacker with martial arts, your keys, or nothing at all.
The downside is, you can become over confident letting your otherwise aware mind take a break. This can lead you into situations where you would have normally been alert and aware. Another downside is the legal issues you may face if in fact you do have to use your weapon for self-defense. In most states deadly force laws are outlined clearly and you should be extremely familiar with your specific states use of deadly force law as well as any law regarding self-defense.
The upside is, you have a serious form of protection that can and will stop an attacker from harming you. You can rest a little easier knowing you have that option available to you.
Finally, carrying a concealed pistol or revolver is a practical way to defend yourself so long as you are prepared and fully understand the responsibility that comes with carrying such a weapon for self-defense.

Concealed Handgun Badges - A Bad Idea

Concealed Carry Permit Badges
There are many websites and magazine advertisements that are selling Metal badges that are designed to be carried along with your State or County issued Concealed Handgun Permit or CCW card. At Colorado Handgun Safety LLC we do not recommend these badges. In our classes we actually discourage our students from buying them.
Carrying a badge along with your card is not a good idea. Most police officers will not be impressed when you flash your badge and CCW permit. There is one ad that states: "This badge may save your life". Nothing could be further from the truth. The only way this badge could save your life is if it stopped a bullet, when you foolishly brandished it.
One needs to ask the question, "Exactly when would I have a need to show this badge?" If you were confronted by a hostile individual and thought maybe showing the badge would get him to back off, you are wrong. By showing the badge, you have just informed the individual that you have a gun. All of the advantage you had is now gone. Showing the badge may in fact make the situation worse. Not only does the bad guy now know that you have a gun, he also may have figured out that you are unwilling or unprepared to use it. At this point he may escalate the aggression and even challenge you to show him your gun. Now what are you going to do?
There should be no reason for the bad guy to know you have a gun unless or until he is looking down the barrel. The ad I mentioned before also has the letter "CHP" on the bottom of the badge. That is supposed to stand for Concealed Handgun Permit. I don't think the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will appreciate their letters on your badge.
Possessing a metal concealed handgun permit badge is unlawful in the state of Utah. There are already too many badges on the street from Private investigators, Security guards and Bail enforcement agents. All these extra badges blur the lines between citizens and police officers. The bottom line is CCW badges are illegal in some states and stupid in all states.


Brandon Kirk
NRA Training Counselor,
NRA Pistol Instructor,
NRA Chief Range Safety Officer
Colorado Handgun Safety LLC.

Inside the Pants Holsters for Concealed Carry of Handguns

Inside the Pants Holsters


Inside the pants holsters provide an excellent manner in which to carry concealed handgun. With summer heat - when dress becomes more casual - a quality inside the pants holster can be worn inside shorts, jeans or slacks - with a shirt casually draped over the waist.
Inside the pants holsters - manufactured by the WRB corporation - are constructed of ballistic nylon, can be adjusted for right or left-hand use, provide an adjustable thumb break for securing the weapon. Additionally, they come with a lifetime manufacturer's warranty.
WRB inside the pants holsters come in a variety of sizes. Here's a partial list of the handguns that will fit in these holsters:
Size 2A Holsters
SMITH & WESSON - S&W (2" to 2 1/8" Barrel) J Frames with shrouded or concealed hammer - 38 - 40 - 42 - 49 - 332 - 342 - 442 - 631 - 638 - 640 - 642 - 649 - 940;
Size 4-3 Holsters
Colt Defender, Kahr
Size 5 Holster:
ASTRA (3 �" Barrel) A-70M - A-75;
ASTRA (3 �" Barrel) A 80 - A 90 - A 100;
COLT (3 �" Barrel) Officers ACP.45 - DBL eagle Officers.45 - 1991 A1 Compact;
CZ (3 �" Barrel) CZ83;
GLOCK (4" Barrel) 19 - 23 - 32 - 36;
GLOCK (4 �" Barrel) 17 - 20 - 21 - 22 - 31;
H&K (4" Barrel) P7 - P7M8 - P7M10 - P7M13;
HS AMERICA (4" Barrel) HS 2000;
KAHR (3 �" Barrel) K9 9mm;
KBI (4" Barrel) PMK.380 - smc.380;
LLAMA (3" to 4" Barrel) XV - XA - 111A - MicroMax;
PARA ORDNANCE (3 �" Barrel) P12.45 - C7.45 LDA (Para Companion) - Para Companion Carry Option - PXT OPS.45 -
SAUER/SIG (3 �" Barrel) P230 - P232 - P225 - P228 - P229;
SMITH & WESSON (3 1/2" Barrel) 469 - 669 - 908 - 3913 - 3914 - 3953 - 3954 - 4013 - 4013TSW - 4053 - 5903SSV - 5943SSV - 6904 - 6906 - 6944 - 6946;
SMITH & WESSON (3 3/4" - 4" Barrel) 39 - 59 - 410 - 411 - 439 - 457 - 457D - 459 - 539 - 559 - 639 - 659 - 909 - 910 - 915 - 3904 - 3906 - 4003 - 4004 - 4006 - 4026 - 4043;
SMITH & WESSON (3 3/4" - 4" Barrel) 4004 - 4046 - 4516 - 4536 - 4556 - 5903 - 5904 - 5905 - 5906 - 5926 - 5943 - 5944 - 5946 - 5967;
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY (3 �" Barrel) P9 Compact;
STAR (3 �" to 3 �" Barrel) 30PK - FIRESTAR 9MM - I40 - FIRESTAR PLUS 9MM;
TAURUS (3.27" Barrel) PT-140 Millennium.40 - PT-145 Millennium.45 - PT- 140 Millennium Pro.40 - PT-145 Millennium Pro.45 - PT-745B/SS.45 - PT 640B/SS.40 -
TAURUS (3 �" Barrel) PT 908 - PT 911 - PT 938 - PT 940 - PT 945 - PT-45
TAURUS (4" Barrel) PT-138
WALTHER (3.4" Barrel) P99,
AMT (4 1/4" Barrel) Skipper - AutoMag II -.22 WMR;
ASTRA (3 � to 4" Barrel) Constable - Camper - Falcon;
AUTO ORDNANCE (3 �" Barrel) Pitbull;
AUTO ORDNANCE (4" Barrel) General;
BERETTA (5" Barrel) 92 - 92S - 92SB - 92D - 92F - 92G - 96 - 92FS - BRIGADIER;
BERETTA (4 �" Barrel) 92FC - 92 Centurion - 96 Centennial - 92D Centennial - 96D Centennial;
BERETTA (4 �" Barrel) 92SBC - 92FM;
BERETTA (3 �" Barrel) 8000 - 8040 COUGAR - 9000;
COLT (4 �" Barrel) COMMANDER - COMBAT COMMANDER - LIGHTWEIGHT COMMANDER - 1991 A1;
COLT (5" Barrel) Combat Elite - Delta Elite - Government Model - Gold Cup - Combat Target - 1991 A1;
CZ (4 �" Barrel) CZ75 - CZ85;
GLOCK (5 �" Barrel) 34 - 35;
H&K (4" Barrel) P9S;
KBI (4 5/8" Barrel) PJK 9HP;
KIMBER (4 �" Barrel) COMPACT CDP - PRO CDP;
KIMBER (3 �" Barrel) ULTRA CARRY - STAINLESS STEEL ULTRA CARRY - ULTRA CDP;
LLAMA (4" to 5" Barrel) 1XA - VIII - XI - OMNI - PLUS OTHER LARGE FRAME AUTOS;
PARA ORDNANCE (4 �" Barrel) P13.45 - P13.45 Limited - P12.45 - P12.45 Limited - P12.45 LDA - P12.45 - P12.45 - Para CCW.45 - Model Tac-Four LDA - Model Tac-Four LE -
PARA ORDNANCE (5" Barrel) P14.45 - P14.45 LDA - P16.45 - P 16.40 Limited - P16.40 LDA - PXT LTC.45
RUGER (4" to 4 �" Barrel) P85 - P89 - P90 - P91 - P93 - P94 - P95 - KP90 - KP93, KP94 - KP97;
SAUER/SIG (4 �" Barrel) P220 - P226;
SMITH & WESSON (4 1/4" Barrel) 1066 - 1076 - 1086 - 4566 - 4567 - 4576 - 4586 - SIGMA FULL SIZE 9MM &.40 - SIGMA COMPACT 9MM &.40;
SMITH & WESSON (4" Barrel) SW99;
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY (4 �" Barrel) COMMANDER;
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY (4" Barrel) XD-9 - XD-40 - XD-357;
STAR (4" to 4 �" Barrel) BM - BKM - PD - 28 - 30M - 31P;
STAR (4" Barrel) Firestar.45 - P88;
STEYR (4" Barrel) M40 - M9;
TAURUS (4" Barrel) PT 58 - PT- 400 & 400SS - PT 945C 45 - PT 945S - PT 940 40 -
TAURUS (4 �" Barrel) PT 92C - PT 24/7-45B - PT 24/7 9B - PT-24/7 40B - PT 38B/SS - PT-38SSSPRL.38
WALTHER (4 �" to 5" Barrel) P38 - P38IV;
WALTHER (4 �" Barrel) P5;
WALTHER (5" Barrel) P22,
Differing from traditional gun holsters designed to fit on your belt or hip - inside the pants holsters fit inside the pants (as the name suggests) offering a greater amount of concealment. However, you might need to purchase your pants or jeans with the holster and handgun in mind - or you might not be able to fit your belly and your holster in the pants. I've had this happen. :)

The Importance of Obtaining a Permit For Concealed Weapons

The debate regarding the purchase and possession of weapons in the United States has a storied and unresolved history thus far. While the debate rages on, individuals are still allowed to purchase and own handguns for the protection of their property, for hunting, and for collection. In Texas and other states, it is legal for individuals to carry concealed handguns on their persons, if they have the proper license to do so.
It is very important that individuals realize the seriousness of obtaining a license before carrying a gun in a concealed manner. If a person is apprehended with an unlicensed handgun or is caught carrying it in a concealed fashion without the proper permit, he or she may face criminal weapons possession charges. Such criminal charges may result in fines, probation, the revocation of weapons licenses, and even incarceration.
To obtain a concealed handgun license in Texas, individuals must often show proof of residency in the state for a period of at least six months. Individuals may show such proof in the form of rental agreements, utility bills, and other official documentation that shows the person's address in the state. People are also often required to show proper identification, which may include driver's licenses, social security cards, or other forms of government-issued identification.
Persons who have been convicted of violent crimes or other types of weapons convictions may not apply for a concealed handgun license if the conviction occurred within the past ten years. The laws require that only individuals in good standing with the law and a clean record for the decade prior to the application be granted the right to carry a handgun on their person. Although many people do not realize it, persons who have been convicted of DWI and DUI may also be denied the right to carry a concealed weapon.
Persons seeking a concealed weapons permit are usually required to take weapons-safety classes that usually include up to fifteen hours of instruction regarding the rules and regulations of the state. Following the completion of classes, the applicant must wait a period of sixty-days in order for the application to be processed and acceptance or rejection to be finalized.
It is important to remember that you should always obtain the correct licenses before carrying a concealed weapon. It is also essential for license holders to be aware of government buildings, schools, and other locations that do not allow non-commissioned individuals to carry weapons, even if they hold a concealed weapons permit.

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.