We get asked a lot of questions, and it’s only fair that we attempt to answer them. Questions with longer answers often become articles and sometimes we even get some USA Carry Readers to submit their answers. This article is for all the questions that didn’t need their own article. Click here to view all of our Concealed Carry Q&A Digest articles.
“If I’m carrying concealed into a place and only discover later that it’s a place I shouldn’t be carrying in, what should I do?”
This is a potential legal question so, as laymen of the law and not practitioners, my non-legal advice answer is to leave immediately. Depart the place where you should not be carrying a concealed handgun. Once out, if you need to go back for some reason, just store your gun discreetly in your vehicle, lock it up, and head back inside to conduct your business.
Some states have laws on the books that make “No Guns Allowed” signs carry the weight of the law. Some done. Some apply to everyone, and some apply to people without concealed carry permits. So take it upon yourself to know the laws in the state you are carrying.
We do recommend that if you do see a place of business that has a “No Firearms Allowed” sign that you should try to do your business elsewhere.
“If I see someone following me, should I turn and confront them if I am carrying a concealed handgun?”
If you believe someone is following you, you should notify police immediately and head inside a place that’s well lit, public, and safe. Get to safety. Nothing is stopping you from telling someone to keep their distance or to stop following you. It’s awkward or weird, maybe, but if it avoids a confrontation then good-to-go. Don’t be afraid to make a scene. Save the confrontation until you believe you cannot reasonably escape or avoid from this person.
“I’m not drinking but my girlfriend is, and she started a fight with another girl at a bar and then the other girl’s girl got involved. I’m carrying a concealed gun, so I don’t want to get into this mix. What’s the best way of getting my girl out while not getting attacked by the other girls or their boyfriends?”
Let the bouncers sort it out. If you’re carrying a gun in a bar, you’re in no position to get into any physical altercation with anyone. And it’s just too easy for a fight to escalate further when more parties get involved. Let the bouncers know, and they’ll be more than happy to break up the fight. Your girl may get tossed out on the curb, but at least you didn’t put yourself at added unnecessary risk. Don’t go back to that bar. Find a new place to hang out.
“What’s the best gun to get if you’ve never carried concealed before but you’re just starting out?”
As of February 2018, I’d recommend a Walther PPS, Glock 43 or 26, Springfield Armory Mod.2 9mm or an M&P Shield in 9mm. They’re light, compact, easy to conceal, affordable, striker fired, and work every single time you pull the trigger. Just know that every single gun owner on the planet is probably going to have their own opinion on the best concealed carry handguns. Those are mine. You can also read the most recent article Ben Findley wrote about his Top Concealed Carry 9mm pistols.
“My wife (significant other) is scared of guns. How do I get her used to me carrying concealed?”
Get proper hearing and eye protection and take her to the range. Give her some hands-on, guided experience in firing a gun in a controlled environment. Sign up for an NRA Basic Pistol course (or equivalent) and go through it with her so she can become more familiar with how pistols work and see you work, too. That’s what I did with my wife, and she’s a concealed carrier. Results may vary.
She may also feel better about attending an all-women firearms class so look to see if anyone offers one in your area.
Read More: How to Make Your Spouse Like Guns
“My extended family (in-laws) don’t like guns. Is there any way I can change their mind?”
Probably not. The best thing you can do is be a responsible gun owner and concealed carrier. Demonstrate that it’s possible for someone to carry a gun and not be a risk to himself or others. If they’re curious, offer to take them to the range to test out a gun. Education and positive experience are two of the most significant converting factors in the people I know.
As always, keep ’em coming. Have a great week and keep carrying concealed!