THE DARK KNIGHT
Member
Know the laws
Be respectful
Avoid confrontations
Also, looking clean cut and well groomed will help too
Be respectful
Avoid confrontations
Also, looking clean cut and well groomed will help too
Any Advice on Carrying Openly for the First Time?
- Thread starter Ltp0wer
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Ltp0wer
Member
Were you alone when you OCd for the first time?
I am going to be with my mom.
THE DARK KNIGHT, Thanks. My family says I don't look like a punk, so I think I will be fine. Then again, that's my family. Maybe I should post a picture of what I look like.
The only thing that worries me is where I can open carry. Most stores and businesses around my area have "No Firearms" signs. The only places I am planning to go are Target and the Gunstore. I wish I could OC to my birthday dinner, but alcohol is served at the restaurant.
I was with my friends the first time I OC'd and one of them had his P229 on his hip. And nobody at the wal-mart gave us any second glance.
I'd double check about Target. I've never seen any signs there prohibiting it, but I would get the feeling they wouldn't like it.
And, recently gov. brewer signed the bill making it legal to carry a firearm into places that serve alcohol. I'm not sure if it's gone into affect yet though.
I'd double check about Target. I've never seen any signs there prohibiting it, but I would get the feeling they wouldn't like it.
And, recently gov. brewer signed the bill making it legal to carry a firearm into places that serve alcohol. I'm not sure if it's gone into affect yet though.
Ltp0wer
Member
The Target near me doesn't have any "No Firearms" sign, so I assume I am safe to go in there. If not, I'll leave or put my gun in the car if there is any problem.
And about the bill, it goes into effect on the 29th or 30th of this month. The only problem is that it only applies to concealed carry. And obviously you still can't CC it if they have a "No Firearms" sign.
Ltp0wer
Member
Now that is quite interesting. I should look into that.
model of 1905
member
If you have decided to open carry, you have already made a decision. Carrying a gun brings with it a responsibility. If you are a law abiding citizen then open carry and don't worry about what people think. Be confident and aware. You will get over the nervousness if you are capable and competent in firearms handling. Dont worry aboit the cops or the sheeple. Remember you are not doing anything illegal. Dont carry in NPEs and dont worry about your atttire. You dont have to be wearing business attire to open carry!
Go forth, open carry and stop worrying. It aint no big deal.
Go forth, open carry and stop worrying. It aint no big deal.
Ltp0wer
Member
Sorry, what does NPE stand for?
I'm kinda new to all these abbreviations you guys use.
Ooh, Maybe you guys could answer a few other terminology questions so I don't have to make a new thread.
What does it mean when a slide is "in battery"?
And what does "half-lug" and "full-lug" mean? Something about weight and revolvers, I think.
model of 1905
member
Non permissive environment.
You are not breaking any laws (at least in my state) by CC'ing in a store with No Firearms" sign. If they see you carrying (which they shouldn't), they can ask you to remove the gun from the premises. If you fail to comply with that, then it turns into trespassing.
-As always, I am not a lawyer (IANAL)
A gun being in "Battery" means that the slide is all the way forward. Some guns will not fire if the slide is not all the way forward, which is something you need to be aware of.
Although I don't open carry unless going to the woods I do want to second what Gearchecker said about a secure holster. If you are going to open carry a quality holster with retention capability (at the very least a thumb break strap) is a must.
22-rimfire
Member
Make sure you know the telephone number of whom ever is going to bail you out of jail the first time. One call. Also have a lawyer whom you will call in the event you need one. 
Good luck with your endeavor. I think you are better off waiting until your 21 and getting a concealed carry permit.
Good luck with your endeavor. I think you are better off waiting until your 21 and getting a concealed carry permit.
swinokur
Member
As someone else mentioned, the MOST important thing to know IMO is the law in your state in regards to the use of deadly force. The best and easiest way to learn this is to take a CCW class. If you break the law, it can impact you legally and financially for the REST of your life. Know the justifications for the use of deadly force and find out if your state laws protect you civilly in case of a lawsuit brought by family of a decedent or someone you injure with your weapon.. Do you know what castle doctrine is? Does your state have one? What about "stand your ground" law? What about use of deadly force involving crimes against property? Some states allow it, many do not. You need to know all of this. You need to know all these things to carry responsibly. In many states you can be found innocent criminally and stiil be found guilty in a civil suit, which can ruin your life.
Carry safely and responsibly.
Stu
Carry safely and responsibly.
Stu
You have more guts than i got thats for sure!
Im almost 40 but ive been out of the "gun" loop almost 20 years,and i would think it would be refreshing to see a younger person OC who does it in the right manner.
Id add that you should watch your tone,language and excitability when speaking.The more respectful you talk to anyone the more respect you will get back.
Dont be loud,obnoxious or trying to stand out,vulgarity will do those things in an even worse light.
Im almost 40 but ive been out of the "gun" loop almost 20 years,and i would think it would be refreshing to see a younger person OC who does it in the right manner.
Id add that you should watch your tone,language and excitability when speaking.The more respectful you talk to anyone the more respect you will get back.
Dont be loud,obnoxious or trying to stand out,vulgarity will do those things in an even worse light.
6.5x55swedish
Member
- Joined
- Sep 11, 2009
- Messages
- 132
You know that publicly displaying a handgun on a forum when you are not yet 18 is very irresponsible? You are not old enough to possess one yet so you just openly admitted to breaking the law and you implicated whoever you recieved the gun from as well. (Youth Handgun Safety Act, 1994)
I think responsibility should be a prerequisite for carrying a gun anyway.
I think responsibility should be a prerequisite for carrying a gun anyway.
nitetrane98
Member
I'd advise you to wear the thing around the house a lot and get completely used to how it feels. I say to do this to try and negate any urges to adjust your weapon and otherwise causing any undue attention to yourself by fidgeting with it. Believe me, at first, you'll likely be the one looking at your gun far more than anybody else until it becomes like another part of your body.
I'd have a ready made reply for the troublemakers who want to challenge your rational for OC. "Why do you want to carry a gun?" I'd say, "Why does a dog lick his balls?" Because he can. Nah, not really. Maybe just, "Because I can."
Kind of reminds me of the story of a football coach who discouraged his players from excessive celebrations after scoring a touchdown. "We'd really like them to act like they'd been in the endzone before."
You'll be nervous and self conscious, hell I was nervous and was in full LEO uniform. Try not to act like it's the first time you ever carried a gun.
Good luck.
I'd have a ready made reply for the troublemakers who want to challenge your rational for OC. "Why do you want to carry a gun?" I'd say, "Why does a dog lick his balls?" Because he can. Nah, not really. Maybe just, "Because I can."
Kind of reminds me of the story of a football coach who discouraged his players from excessive celebrations after scoring a touchdown. "We'd really like them to act like they'd been in the endzone before."
You'll be nervous and self conscious, hell I was nervous and was in full LEO uniform. Try not to act like it's the first time you ever carried a gun.
Good luck.
Post #23
I like gearchecker's advice.
Taking the CCW course should give you knowledge of the law--that's a necessity.
Couple of additional thoughts: do everything possible to never appear the least bit threatening; avoid confrontation at all costs; stay out of questionable places; practice situational awareness at all times; and if possible, get some weapons retention training.
I like gearchecker's advice.
Taking the CCW course should give you knowledge of the law--that's a necessity.
Couple of additional thoughts: do everything possible to never appear the least bit threatening; avoid confrontation at all costs; stay out of questionable places; practice situational awareness at all times; and if possible, get some weapons retention training.
nitetrane98
Member
Yes, if you have to lug a gun around weight is something to think about. Guys who carry Deagles, Ruger Redhawks, 500 S&W's are commonly heard to say, "Man, that gun is a full lug." Smaller guns and most plastic types are only referred to as "half-lugs" as they are only half as hard to lug around.
I'm being silly. I think what you're referring to is the under lug on a revolver. It is the extra lump of steel that shrouds the ejector rod. Some guns only have enough to cover the rod, half lug, others like a Python, extends the lug all the way to the end of the barel, full lug.
nitetrane98
Member
Thanks for the reminder. I'm out of laxative.
Ltp0wer
Member
Sweet, thanks.smithmax said:
I have a holster with a thumb break strap. It's a great holster.Mike J said:
Good advice about the telephone number. As for waiting, I just can't do that. That's another 3 years away. When I turn 21, I'll CC, but until then, I am going to do what I can.22-rimfire said:
Thanks Stu. All that stuff is in my Arizona Gun Owners Guide book. My state does have a castle doctrine. I can use deadly force to prevent certain types of property crime (Arson is the only one that comes to mind at the moment). I'll be sure to read over the deadly force chapters in my book.swinokur said:
That's exactly what I think. Thanks for the advice.
No, I was not aware that it is very irresponsible. What law did I break?
According to ARS 13-3111 and ARS 13-3108, I can have a firearm in possession when on private property owned or leased by my legal guardian. Calling it "my gun" isn't breaking any laws. Of course, techinically until I am 18 it is not legally my gun. There is nothing irresponsible about posting a picture of my gun. I wanted to know what people thought about it or if people thought it would be dangerous to carry, so they could inform me. I think that is responsible.
Stop trying to rain on my parade.
Ltp0wer
Member
Haha, thanks. I already wear my gun in it's holster around my house, but I didn't want to mention it because I thought it was silly.
nitetrane98, Thanks. You'd think google would be more helpful for these kinds of terms, but it isn't.
I strongly support those who open carry. I happily donate to their legal defense funds. This is not to say don't open carry. You have to be ready and willing to be stopped, detained, arrested and charged, falsely.
You may not do anything wrong, but the wrong police officer coupled with the wrong prosecutor and you may find yourself facing a judge.
What that means is that you have to know exactly what to do and what not to do. Even very small things can be blown up into a BS disorderly charge. This also means that you need to have the name and number of an attorney (on your person) that is familiar with gun law and have the means to pay said attorney. A few of the cases I've run into on the forums are successfully defended for about $3-4K. Those individuals knew their playbook and did everything cleanly.
Keep in mind that since you are under 21, someone will bring up the question of if you can legally buy/own/possess a handgun. A police officer may try to justify a detention on those grounds to investigate how you obtained the firearm. Even found to be totally clean, it will be a hassle.
+1 to most of the above advice. Make sure you have a holster with good retention.
You may not do anything wrong, but the wrong police officer coupled with the wrong prosecutor and you may find yourself facing a judge.
What that means is that you have to know exactly what to do and what not to do. Even very small things can be blown up into a BS disorderly charge. This also means that you need to have the name and number of an attorney (on your person) that is familiar with gun law and have the means to pay said attorney. A few of the cases I've run into on the forums are successfully defended for about $3-4K. Those individuals knew their playbook and did everything cleanly.
Keep in mind that since you are under 21, someone will bring up the question of if you can legally buy/own/possess a handgun. A police officer may try to justify a detention on those grounds to investigate how you obtained the firearm. Even found to be totally clean, it will be a hassle.
+1 to most of the above advice. Make sure you have a holster with good retention.
ScottG1911
Member
Well I think the man already cited you wrong on that. However, who cares! the law is crap. I don't advocate breaking laws, but I sure as hell aint crying over it. there are plenty of laws that I wouldn't mind violating, but I'm a good boy and don't wanna get in trouble
I may or may not have open carried one time. my state says you can open carry at 18, even says you can possess a handgun at 18. it also says who ever gave you that handgun is now in trouble. We'll just say I dreamed I open carried and in this dream I thought I knew all the laws. The police stopped me, searched me, and ran a warrant check. all was good, and they handed the gun back to me and sent me on my way. that dream could have ended up alot worse. I no longer have those dreams of open carrying until I'm 21 lol. so just know your laws, seems like you already do. and don't worry about it.
and for those who say obey the police like they are your master, Forget that. they work for you, and they will violate your rights given a chance. I've seen it first hand.. stand up for yourself.
if the cop want your ID, you can comply. I'm bullheaded and love my freedoms so I aint handin mine over without reason. I'm just rambling now cause I'm just sick of people bending over to the police, it's sick.
ScottG1911
Member
yup, I learned that the hard way.
I had someone in my own damn house try and stab me in the chest with a screw driver or knife, couldnt tell. they didn't realize that I had the trusty 40 cal in an IWB holster because I knew something was up. well when they charged me a backed up to my front door, and then drew the gun, stoppiign them in their tracks. police were called and I went to jail. at pre-trial I displayed multiple witness reports backing me up, and even a 911 call where the assailant attacked again while on the line. prosecuter could have dropped all charges, but how could he make more money??? so he reluctantly under pressure dropped it to a disorderly conduct with a $250 fine, OR I could have went to court for $3500. I'm 19 man, I don't have that kind of money. this is why my post above is scorning the police so much, Don't like'em at all no more.
6.5x55swedish
Member
- Joined
- Sep 11, 2009
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The law you broke is the youth handgun safety act which is a federal law so it trumps your state laws.
Not trying to rain on anybodies parade, but it is unlawful for anybody under the age of 18 to possess a handgun or the ammo for one unless 1. they are employed as a law enforcment officer or military. 2. it is temporary possession related to farming or ranching, shooting training etc.
My issue with this is that the antis only become antis when gun owners act irresponsibly. You just posted on a public forum that you are a gun owner and have no regard for the law.... in essence you are giving gun owners a bad name and the antis more ammo for their fight.
Follow the law and you will not have any problems.... disobay the law and post openly about it and trouble will follow.
The punishment for the person who sold/gave you that gun is up to 10 years and a felony on their record. just FYI. If I was that person I would really be pissed when ATF showed up at my door because you went public on a forum.
Not trying to rain on anybodies parade, but it is unlawful for anybody under the age of 18 to possess a handgun or the ammo for one unless 1. they are employed as a law enforcment officer or military. 2. it is temporary possession related to farming or ranching, shooting training etc.
My issue with this is that the antis only become antis when gun owners act irresponsibly. You just posted on a public forum that you are a gun owner and have no regard for the law.... in essence you are giving gun owners a bad name and the antis more ammo for their fight.
Follow the law and you will not have any problems.... disobay the law and post openly about it and trouble will follow.
The punishment for the person who sold/gave you that gun is up to 10 years and a felony on their record. just FYI. If I was that person I would really be pissed when ATF showed up at my door because you went public on a forum.
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