Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Common Interests buying my first handgun...suggestions?

Originally posted by Stazi:

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All I can add is this: If you are going to carry get a freakin' CCW - last thing you want is to end up in jail when it's they criminal's that should be there instead!

Lugging a pistol around by-the-letter-of-the-law without a CCW is pointless. You have to keep the gun in the trunk, locked in a case and the ammo in the glove box. What use is that other than when you are going to a range?

If you get stopped for a traffic infringement and cop catches you with a loaded gun without a CCW you are in a world of sh! t. How's 10 years sound for a gun felony?

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Depends on the state. Some states really suck, but Arizona is cool that way.

In Arizona you can carry openly without a CCW as long as you aren't a convicted felon. This would be in a holster on your hip, shoulder harness, etc. Of course you may not be welcome in may establishments with the weapon and they reserve the right to not admit you. But the open carriers are rare and not the threat anyway.
You can carry one in your car in the glove box loaded and not have a ccw.
You'd BETTER declare it if you ever get stopped as they will keep you there for a while running your info, but it is legal.
I used to carry in AZ all the time and never had a ccw.
On the other hand, you WILL be issued a ticket or arrested if you fire one in a fight and you must have your ducks in a row if you expect to get through it.

Only if you have a cut and dry case where a thief had a weapon and you shoot him dead, your story on his with no contradicting evidence will they say Okay, write it up and send you on your way. You may still have to visit the police station a few times as you are questioned.

Best place for a firearm is in the home and for home protection....and make sure when you shoot them they fall IN the house and not back out the window...and that you made a killing shot if you don't want to be sued.
Otherwise learn to avoid the areas and situation where you can be mugged if possible, and if not then follow the advice I put in the post before this one.
Just my opinions.