So You Want to Open Carry in Colorado Springs: A Guide for the Publicly Packin' Person
Ever feel like strolling down Pikes Peak Avenue with your trusty six-shooter by your side? Maybe you're channeling your inner Clint Eastwood, or perhaps you just like to keep a sidearm for surprise encounters with rabid squirrels (stranger things have happened). Whatever your reason, you've landed on the question: can I openly carry a firearm in Colorado Springs?
Can I Open Carry In Colorado Springs |
The Wild West...Mostly
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The good news, partner, is that Colorado does allow open carry for firearms – with some lasso-sized exceptions. You don't need a special permit to strut your stuff with your iron on your hip, but that doesn't mean it's a free-for-all.
Hold Your Horses! Here's What You Need to Know:
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- Age is Just a Number (But Not That Young): You gotta be at least 18 years old to openly carry a firearm in Colorado Springs.
- Some Places Just Ain't for Gunslingers: Schools, government buildings, and public transportation (unless you're a cop) are big no-nos for open carry. Private businesses can also choose to bar firearms on their property, so be sure to check for signage before you waltz in like John Wayne.
- Not All Guns Are Created Equal: Colorado has a thing for law-abiding citizens, so forget about packing a sawed-off shotgun or a bazooka. Only legal firearms are allowed for open carry.
- Knowledge is Power (and Keeps You Out of Jail): It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with all of Colorado's gun laws. You can find them online, or ask a friendly sheriff's deputy (they might even point you towards a good holster).
Open Carry: Not for the Faint of Heart (or Easily Embarrassed)
Listen up, partner. Open carry isn't for everyone. Sure, you might feel like a rugged individualist, but here's a reality check:
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- Not everyone appreciates your firepower on display. Some folks might get nervous, and let's be honest, unless you're Wyatt Earp, you probably don't need a six-shooter to pick up groceries.
- Open carry can be a legal headache. If you don't know the laws inside and out, you could end up in a heap of trouble with the law.
So, How Do You Decide?
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Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to open carry is a personal one. If you choose to do so, be responsible, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the law.
Bonus Tip: Consider taking a gun safety course! It'll make you a more confident and responsible gun owner.
How-To FAQs for the Aspiring Open Carrier:
- How to Find Colorado Gun Laws? A quick Google search for "Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18" should set you on the right track.
- How to Check Local Open Carry Restrictions? The Colorado Springs Police Department website or a friendly call to their non-emergency line should have the info you need.
- How to Choose a Holster? This depends on the type of firearm you carry and your personal preference. Talk to a gun store salesperson for guidance.
- How to Handle Nervous Bystanders? Be polite and professional. Explain that you're following the law and offer to answer any questions they might have (calmly, of course).
- How to Avoid a Showdown at the Grocery Store? Maybe skip the open carry on errands and reserve it for situations where you truly feel it's necessary.
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