Month: July 2021

Arizona is one of the best states in the nation when it comes to upholding gun owners’ rights. If you are considering buying a gun, you are probably wondering how state and federal laws affect your ability to carry a firearm. Since Arizona is a constitutional carry state, you do not need a permit for open or concealed carry. However, getting one may still be a good idea for other reasons.

A quick note: This article and all other information on our website is for general information purposes only. While our experts are happy to answer your general gun-related questions, we cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure whether any factors could affect the legality of owning or carrying a weapon in your case, please consult with an attorney.

The Basics of Constitutional Carry

Constitutional carry gets its name from the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, which gives citizens the right to bear arms. Constitutional carry states are also called permitless carry states since you do not need a permit or training to carry a firearm.

Not all permitless carry states allow both concealed and open carry without a permit. In some, only open carry falls under their constitutional carry laws.

The following states do not require a permit for either concealed or open carry:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Maine
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• New Hampshire
• North Dakota
• Oklahoma
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• West Virginia
• Wyoming

The following states require a permit to carry a concealed firearm, but not for open carry:

• Alabama
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin

Are There Restrictions for Permitless Carry

Although the above states do not require a license or permit to carry a gun, that doesn’t mean there are absolutely no restrictions. Most notably, every state has age requirements for open and concealed carry. In Arizona, for example, you can open carry at 18 years or older and can conceal carry at 21 years or older.

Additionally, there are still restrictions on who can legally own a firearm, and you must possess the gun legally in order to carry it. You can find general guidelines in our guide to buying a gun in Arizona. If you are unsure whether you are able to buy a gun, it’s important to consult with an attorney for clarification. Again, we cannot provide you with any legal advice.

Should You Get a Permit Anyway?

Although you do not need a permit to carry a concealed firearm in Arizona, there are several reasons you may want to consider getting one anyway.

These include:

• Reciprocity: If you have a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit in Arizona, it allows you to carry your firearm in other states as well. This is known as reciprocity and can be beneficial if you are traveling or moving. In the case of moving, you will also need a permit in your new state eventually, if applicable.
• Training: A CCW class gives you valuable information about firearms safety. Taking a class can help you be a more responsible gun owner. Getting your CCW gives you a foundation for any further training you wish to pursue.
• Streamlined Background Checks: The background check process may be streamlined for future gun purchases since you undergo a background check to get a CCW.

Earn Your CCW At The Hub

If you are interested in a CCW class or another type of training, visit The Hub in Tucson or Lakeside.

If you are a first-time gun buyer, it can be a bit overwhelming at first. We’ve already covered the process of buying a gun in Arizona on our blog, but what should you do before your purchase? Beyond simply obtaining a firearm, there are many actions that help you be a more informed gun owner. From preparation and research to honing your skills, The Hub is here to help you every step of the way.

Here are some things to do before you purchase a gun:

1. Focus on Safety From the Start

Safety is absolutely essential when it comes to owning and operating a firearm. Before you even purchase a gun, make a plan for how to store it so no unauthorized individuals can access it. It’s also a good idea to talk to anyone else in your household and make sure they know the importance of safety. If you have young children, this is especially important.

2. Determine What You Will Use the Firearm For

What type of gun will be best for your needs depends on what you plan to use that firearm for. For example, a compact handgun will generally be best for everyday concealed carry, but wouldn’t be as well-suited to hunting. When it comes to home defense, where you are living can make a difference, and some individuals may prefer a rifle for rural areas whereas others may need a lower-caliber pistol if they are living in an apartment. Knowing the purpose of your gun is a good starting part for your search.

3. Research Specific Guns

Once you know the broad type of gun you are interested in, you can start looking at specific manufacturers and models. To help guide your decision, you can read reviews online, get advice from your friends, and ask the friendly gun experts at The Hub.

Cost will, of course, be a factor for any purchasing decision, including buying a gun. When choosing a gun, you don’t want to sacrifice quality to save on price. Doing some research ahead of time can help you find a gun that is reliable and high-quality while also staying within your budget. Make sure to factor in the cost of ammunition as well.

4. Know What Accessories You Will Need

There are a variety of gun accessories available and some are more essential than others. If this is your first gun, it’s generally a good idea to start with the basics and get familiar with your firearm rather than buying too many accessories you don’t know how to use. Before you purchase your gun, make a list of what you know you will need and get these items either before your gun or at the same time.

Here is what we recommend:

• A way to transport your gun, depending on how you are using it: a holster, travel case, gear bag, sling, etc.
• Cleaning supplies
• Ammunition
• Extra magazines
• A gun safe, or another method for secure storage
• Anything else that is specific to the purpose you are using your gun for

5. Try Before You Buy

Trying a gun at the shooting range before purchasing it can help you get an idea of whether you personally like the way it feels. At The Hub, you’ll even get a discount if you buy a gun after trying it at our range.

6. Consider Training

This step can be completed at any time before or after you buy a gun, but you may want to start thinking about it before you actually make the purchase. Training, such as a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit class or a one-on-one lesson, can be very beneficial. Although a CCW isn’t required in Arizona, you will learn valuable safety skills and will benefit from reciprocity. As for one-on-one training or group skills classes, these allow you to hone your skills.

Your One-Stop Gun Shop

The Hub has everything you need before and after you buy a gun and we have a large selection of firearms to choose from. We are here to help you find the ideal gun for your needs.

To browse our firearms, visit us in Tucson, Lakeside, or online.