As of October 2018, there are 337,733 concealed weapon permit holders in the state of Arizona. That equates to one in every 15 adults. In 2010, Arizona passed a law that removed the requirement for a permit to carry a concealed firearm. The law states that if you are at least 21 years old and a legal firearms owner, you may carry a concealed firearm in most places within Arizona.
With that many people legally allowed to carry concealed, one might ask why would someone want to carry a concealed firearm? The answers vary significantly from person to person. We will discuss the top two reasons, but first, there is a very important point to be made: Carrying a concealed weapon comes with a LOT of responsibility. Before someone considers carrying concealed, they should ensure they are properly trained, equipped and prepared.
Being properly trained to carry concealed encompasses three things:
1. Knowledge and skills of safe firearms handling.
2. A thorough understanding of the laws regarding both the use of a firearm and where you are prohibited from carrying.
3. Regular practice with your firearm since marksmanship is a perishable skill.
Having the right equipment, in addition to the firearm, is also very important. Once you have selected the firearm that fits you and works best for you, you’ll need a properly fitting holster that completely covers the trigger guard.
It is extremely important to be mentally prepared not just for the possibility you may have to use your firearm, but also what you should do after the event.
The best way to ensure you’re a responsible concealed carrier is to attend a comprehensive concealed carry weapon course that addresses the issues above AND includes live fire time in a range environment, such as the indoor and outdoor shooting ranges at Timberline Firearms and Training.
When it comes to concealed carry and defending your life, don’t cut corners! Make sure you have the correct firearm and equipment, you know the law, you are properly trained to carry and discharge your firearm and you are mentally prepared in the event you have to defend your life of the life of others.
Reasons people carry a concealed weapon:
The number one reason most people carry a concealed firearm can be described in one word (that the Boy Scouts say best): Prepared. No one ever wants to be in a situation where you must defend yourself or others against the threat of great bodily harm or death. Hopefully, you live your life in a way that reduces the likelihood. Being situationally aware and taking precautions where necessary can prevent the need for additional defensive actions.
In the event you are placed in a defensive situation, most concealed carriers know that there won’t be time to call for help from anyone, and action must be taken to ensure the safety of yourself and/or others.
The second most common reason many people choose to carry concealed is that they or someone close to them has experienced an event where they felt threated and therefore, they want to be able to defend themselves.
Firearms are often called the great equalizers. Here is why: When a person twice your size threatens you physically, there are few effective options to defend yourself. A firearm can equalize the size difference and provide the defense needed. This is one reason so many women choose to carry a concealed weapon.
In summary, carrying a concealed firearm comes with immense responsibilities that should not be ignored, and proper training and equipment is paramount. Concealed carry provides the carrier with a defensive option that hopefully will never have to be used. FBN
Timberline Firearms & Training is a full-service, retail, training and shooting facility, located in Timberline at 11972 N. Highway 89, just minutes past the Flagstaff Mall. Timberline Firearms promotes safe, responsible firearms ownership. More than a dozen knowledgeable and expert staff are specially trained in the sale and use of firearms, firearm safety, accessories, repairs and more. The 10,000-square-foot building houses a state-of-the-art 12-lane, 25-yard indoor range. Education classes include Facts and Firearms, First Shots, Basic Pistol, Stop the Bleed, Conceal Carry, Land Navigation and more.
The facility is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday through Friday; and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. To stay up-to-date on classes, events and more, follow on Facebook at Timberline Firearms and Training, visit TimberlineFireArms.us or call 928-526-7900.
By Rob Wilson
Rob and Elise Wilson are the owners of Timberline Firearms & Training.
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