Surge in CCW Permits

[kenhwind]

Seems like more and more people clinging to their guns.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-08-03-guns_N.htm

[Chilo45]

Now if all of these new concealed permit carriers would just practice and learn the defensive applications necessary to be able to carry a gun and know when to remove it from its holster. Otherwise just more fuel for the anti's.

[Old Fashioned]

I don't know about other states but here in SC the law and when and when not to draw the firearm are covered quite extensively. Continued practice is also highly encouraged.

[Aguila Blanca]

Two states do not even require a license to carry a concealed handgun. Others require no training, or minimal ("firearms safety") training, without getting into the legal aspects of concealed carry.

This may be both good and bad. First off, the 2nd Amendment does not say that the right of the People (who have successfully completed a course in the laws pertaining to self defense) to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. On that basis, any requirement for any training (and, indeed, for a license) is unconstitutional.

Then there's the fact that most firearms trainers are not attorneys. I have seen a LOT of very wrong "information" conveyed on gun forums by people claiming to be certified handgun instructors in states whose laws require instruction in law. Many don't even know what "brandishing" is, for example. (Hint -- it ain't defined the same in all states.)

On balance, I don't think knowledge of the law should be a prerequisite to being granted a license to engage in a constitutionally protected right. Should everyone who carries a gun learn the laws pertaining to such carry? Absolutely. But the states should not require it before issuing a license. Florida does not. But with each new or renewed license issued, Florida includes a brochure spelling out the laws for Florida. The prudent holder of a Florida license would be advised to read it.