RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury explains how a law-abiding citizen of one state may risk getting in trouble by carrying a gun in another state, where laws differ. A survey by RVtravel.com revealed that 40 percent of RVers carry a weapon all or most of the time.
RVers or others who travel with a firearm outside their own state should know the laws. A routine traffic stop for a speeding violation could turn into a nightmare journey through the criminal justice system if the traveler isn’t aware of the proper way to carry or transport his firearms in a vehicle. Attorney J. Scott Kappas uses case law and statutory authority to render plain English advice as to how a traveler should carry firearms while visiting the many states of our great nation.
Kappas’ book, Travelers Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States, is not simply a restatement of the statutes. It is an easily readable narrative designed to unlock the complexities of state firearm laws. The annual guide is indispensable for staying on the road and out of jail. The 2019 edition of the book is available at Amazon.com.
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Switch to a long gun with a 16″ barrel. No state has jurisdiction over long guns. Nothing gets a would be bad guys attention, then the sound of the action racking one into the chamber, as you discuss it with him. Until, the current infringements on the second amendment are percolated up to SCOTUS, you will just need to carry a long gun.
David best be aware that many states have ruled that any part of the vehicle can be searched without probable cause or a warrant. The old rule that the vehicle was a home is gone in many states.
I could care less about the law. I carry to protect myself and my family. If I use it in self defense I will worry latter about the legalities. There are too many people out in the world with bad intentions.
Not really worried about being pulled over and searched. They need a warrant to search your vehicle or person without cause.
Re firearm laws; CT does not accept any other states license for carry, and most states do not accept CT’s license for concealed carry. Hope someday (soon) there will be a National law for concealed carry – be nice huh?
Another great resource for law information is Handgunlaw.us.
Does anybody here know the law for crossing the border into Canada (with a firearm)? Thank you!
The 50 state bible is very interesting but somewhat confusing and even seems to contradict itself at times.
Great advice as always. Yes, the laws are a mess from State to State! We, as the citizen that chooses to carry a firearm, must keep informed and aware when certain laws change. I actually have 5 different States Conceal Carry permits. As an example, Oregon stands alone, so I need one for Oregon. Pennsylvania requires one. Utah does not support Arizona, so when we travel there, we need one for each. Through the years, they actually change, so you need to understand the specific rules in each of the States to carry as well.
On a more positive note: Although it does sound complicated (and it is to some extent) once you come up to speed, it really becomes easier.
You are correct Chuck and I have the So Called Bible for State Firearm Laws. Most of the states I travel in all have reciprocity laws that allow me to carry in almost all states.
The BIG Stickler states are (As you would expect) California, Illinois, and most of the East Coast States, like New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts.
It is very important to know before you GO!
Also, I think your Firearms Poll is a little bit off, because many RVers won’t disclose that information in a Poll! I’m willing to BET there are many more than your Poll identifies!