Gun Laws by State

Open carry is a designation where you're allowed to carry a weapon in full visibility. Basically if a state has an open carry policy you're allowed to carry the weapon without a permit required.

But you need to be fully aware of the laws because there are certain states with strict designations about when and where you're allowed to openly carry. For instance, in Wisconsin you can open carry a long rifle with only a hunter safety course, but cannot openly carry a handgun.

California though will not allow for open carry under any circumstance, except for law enforcement.

There are 3 different issue policies or groupings for concealed carry. There was previously a designation called "No Issue" which was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court for being unconstitutional. The 3 main categories include:

1. Unrestricted - This indicates you are unrequired to have a permit for carrying a firearm. This has also been designated as "Constitutional Carry"
2. Shall Issue - You're required to have a permit if you wish to carry a firearm. You will only need to meet minimum requirements like background check, age, or training. These requirements are set by the state.
3. May Issue - This is a designation for a state with very restrictive laws for getting a permit. To conceal carry within this state a permit is required, but we've gone ahead and indicated the various laws and complications you'll experience trying to get one. States like California, New York, and Hawaii are an example of states with restrictive laws requiring a thorough application on why you require a gun permit.

"May Issue" states are beginning to be struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court because of unlawful discrimination towards citizens, but you must still be aware of these rules and laws to avoid any unnecessary fines or jail time.

These States Have Official Gun Registries

• California - The California registry is regularly kept updated by the CDoJ or California Department of Justice. The information required includes full name, address, fingerprints and serial number of the weapon. However, if you've owned the weapon before 1991 you will not need to register it.
• District of Columbia - Here you're required to register the serial number along with your name and address to the D.C. Police.
• Hawaii - Same as California for information required except you the data base is maintained by the state, but Hawaii additionally requires a 5 day waiting period from purchase of the firearm before bringing home.
• Maryland - this state only requires you to register an automatic weapon or handgun to the local police department.
• New York - You're required to register a handgun only which ties the seriel number and your name and address together. If you possess a handgun without it registered you'll be subject to expensive fines. Please know there is a $3 fee associated with registering the weapon.

States That Collect Data on Gun Sales

• Michigan - Handgun sales must be reported to your local police station.
• New Jersey - You must provide a copy of the purchase permits to the New Jersey police. They will maintain the record of transfer or purchase.
• Washington -All licensed dealers are required to deliver a report of handgun sales to the local police.

The opposite of Stand Your Ground is called Duty to Retreat where you're legally required to first retreat if you're attacked. You can only use deadly force if there's no option for retreat or you would be put in further danger by retreating.