From the Gun Zone

by Dan Terry

February 26, 2010: Missouri home owner Bob Nicholson was brought out of a deep sleep by a pounding on the front door. Not seeing a light come on, the suspect began to jimmy the lock in an attempt to gain illegal entry. Suddenly, the would-be burglar was looking down the business end of a handgun, the barrel pressed against the glass. The suspect ran to his truck and drove away.

Unlike television, with gunfights on every channel, most crime incidents are stopped by the mere presence of a firearm in the hands of a civilian. According to Professor John Lott, author of More Guns, Less Crime, there is a significant drop in crime in each state that passes concealed carry laws.

Currently, 48 states have some kind of Concealed Carry laws. As a firearm instructor, I am often asked questions about the current laws. I thought this would be a good chance to bring out some of the more frequently asked questions.

“I just want to keep a gun in my car.” In Missouri, you do NOT need a concealed carry permit (CCW) to have one in the car. Only to carry on your person. Most other states require you to have a CCW permit to have one in the vehicle. 

 “Wouldn’t it be better to get a Utah CCW license?” Currently, Utah’s CCW permit is recognized in 33 states. Missouri’s permits are recognized in 36 states. Utah holders can carry in Missouri, and are required to renew every six years instead of every three years. However, you may or may not find a Utah-certified instructor in six years. The State of Missouri is currently attempting legislation to extend the renewal date. And, a Utah class does not explain adequately the Missouri laws.

 “Do I have to tell an officer I have a CCW?” In Missouri, it is not required to tell a police officer who stops you that you have a gun or permit. However, I teach that it’s a very good idea to do so.

 “How old do I have to be to get a Missouri CCW?” Currently, state law requires a permit holder to be at least 23 years of age. There is legislation currently in the House to change this to 21. 

To date, Illinois and Wisconsin are the only states that do not recognize any concealed carry laws. I advise anyone going through those states to take their gun apart and pack it away in the trunk or in suitcases in another compartment of the vehicle.

In another column, we’ll discuss the State of Missouri’s Castle Doctrine.  For more information, you can check the Missouri State Attorney General’s website.

Dan Terry is the Assistant Chief of Police in New Haven. He offers an eight-hour concealed-carry class several times a year in New Haven. Terry has been giving this class for six or seven years and is certified to instruct by the NRA, FBI and Missouri State Highway Patrol. His class includes time in the classroom and a marksmanship portion on the firing range. The next class starts May 23 and the cost is $100. NRA members and First Responders have a reduced cost. Anyone interested should contact him at 573-237-4798.