So You Want to Open Carry in San Diego? Hold Your Horses (Literally)
Ah, San Diego. Land of sunshine, beaches, and...well, not exactly the wild west. If you're itching to strut your stuff with your iron on your hip, there's some crucial info you need to holster before you hightail it down to the boardwalk.
California Dreamin'? Not Quite for Open Carry
Here's the thing: California, and San Diego by extension, isn't exactly the most open-carry friendly state. In fact, it's more like "concealed carry or get ready to explain yourself to a bunch of very nice, but concerned, police officers."
There are a few exceptions, but they're about as common as finding a parking spot in Gaslamp on a Friday night (impossible, basically). That said, knowledge is power, so let's break it down.
The Exceptions: Less Common Than Finding a Four-Leaf Clover on the Beach
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
- Population Exceptions (For Counties Under 200,000): This one's a real head-scratcher. Basically, if you live in a county with a population smaller than your high school graduating class, there's a chance you can get a permit to open carry a loaded handgun. San Diego County? Big nope on that one.
- License to Chill (For Specific Professions): If you're a guard, armored car driver, or someone else with a very specific job title, there might be a chance you can open carry under special circumstances. But for the average Joe (or Jane), this is a non-starter.
So, What Can You Do, Mr./Ms. Wannabe Gunslinger?
Look, we all have our preferences, but in San Diego, your best bet is to stick with concealed carry if you're a licensed gun owner. Here at Bard Central, we recommend checking out the San Diego County Sheriff's office website for more info on obtaining a CCW permit (
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| Can You Open Carry In San Diego |
Safety First, Friends!
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Even if concealed carry is your route, remember gun safety is paramount. Take a class, practice responsible handling, and be aware of your surroundings.
Bonus Tip: Open carrying might make you feel like a character out of a dusty western, but in San Diego, you're more likely to get confused stares than tumbleweeds.
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Open Carry FAQs
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
How to get a CCW permit in San Diego?
Check out the San Diego County Sheriff's office website for details and legalese (
How do I know if open carry is legal in another state?
Gun laws vary wildly. Always check the specific state's regulations before you travel.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
How can I learn more about gun safety?
Many gun ranges and organizations offer safety classes. The National Rifle Association (NRA) is a resource, but there are many others (
How do I unload a firearm safely?
If you're unsure, find a qualified gun safety instructor to show you the proper way to unload your specific firearm.
How can I avoid unwanted attention while carrying concealed?
Wear loose-fitting clothing that adequately covers your firearm and avoid printing (the outline of the gun showing through your clothes).
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