It’s once again time to talk about open carry laws in the U.S.
If you are considering buying a firearm, or you have recently purchased one, it is important to understand the rules surrounding where you can take them.
In the United States, you can legally carry a firearm, but how you carry it varies from state to state.
For example, in some states, you can get a concealed carry license to carry a gun with you, but it cannot be visible to other people. In other states, open carry laws apply, which means you can carry them out in the open, in a holster or sling.
In Washington state, no statute directly prohibits openly carrying a firearm. But as with most laws, there are wrinkles.
Oregon is an open-carry state, but a “city or county may adopt ordinances to regulate, restrict or prohibit the possession of loaded firearms in public places.” Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Oregon City, and a few other towns, as well as the whole of Multnomah County, ban loaded firearms in public places without a license.
There are currently 15 states in the U.S. that require a permit to carry a handgun and 31 states that allow for open carrying without a permit or license.
Five states (and the District of Columbia) prohibit people from openly carrying guns in public: Illinois, New York, South Carolina, Florida, and California.
There are other states that restrict handguns in public, including Alabama, Washington, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
For the states that allow openly carrying weapons in public, there may still be limitations. For example, there are state laws strictly prohibiting bringing guns into churches, schools, state-owned buildings and on public transportation. In others, one may not carry a gun where alcohol is sold.
Regarding open carry laws in the United States, there are opposing views on which type of carrying is best. Open carry allows the firearm to be easily accessible and could keep criminals at bay. However, openly carrying weapons can be subject to public scrutiny and often has a negative public perception.
Concealed carry has benefits and drawbacks, too. For example, in the event of an emergency, the firearm won’t be as quickly accessible.
Carrying firearms in public means adhering to the gun laws that states require in their jurisdictions.
Some states have more permissive open carry laws. Others generally prohibit openly carrying handguns or have more specific laws regarding openly carrying firearms.
Still more states require background checks from law enforcement in order to obtain a permit to open carry.
Citizens of the United States are rightly proud of our system of government that permits states to establish laws within their own borders. When it comes to open carry laws in the U.S., it’s advised to follow that old saying: When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
In other words, make sure you’re always informed and aware of the open carry laws in whatever united state that you happen to be in!
Are you a gun owner planning on adding a new gun to your collection? Perhaps you have never purchased a firearm, and you are just beginning your search.
Come and browse our collection at Sporting Systems to find the right firearm within your price range. Our selection is unmatched, and our knowledge is unsurpassed.
