So, you want to buy a handgun.
Now the questions...how does this work, what are the laws, what can/can't I buy?
For someone (like me) who wasn't brought up with anything other than a Red Ryder BB gun...buying my first handgun was an experience.
2006...specifically Fall of 2006...October to be precise. I'd had an experience. We were doing a fairly drastic remodel of the house we'd just purchased, without living there at the time. Due to space at the in-laws, where the fam was camped, I was working out of a small 2nd story office (which was the only part not being worked on) in the house.
I'd come over to the house one evening after dark to work for a few hours, and I'd found muddy footprints (not my own) extending into the basement from the unlocked door. After determining no one was in the house (in hindsight not the brightest course of action), I'd gone up to work in my office. It was later I decided that, had there been someone there, it might not have ended well for me. This drove me to hit Gander Mountain the next day - again, not the best choice for overall value or experience, but HEY, I was learning.
Now, I knew enough to have what Minnesota calls a "Permit to Purchase a Handgun" that I'd gotten from my local police department after going in person, filling out a form, and waiting ~7 days. You'll need one of these before you can buy anything from a licensed dealer in Minnesota. You could also go all out and get a Minnesota Carry Permit as well -- those will also function as a purchase permit.
I hit Gander one afternoon after everything was done for the day. Walked back to the gun counter, and the conversation went something like this:
"Hey, can I help you?" - GM guy
"Yeah, I'm looking to buy a pistol." - Me
"What kind?"
Well, there was the question. I'd shot a friends 9mm Hi-Point (don't judge me) and his Jennings .22 (again with the not judging). I knew those were crap (sorry Jay) - so I asked for something "better than a Hi Point".
"Polymer or steel frame" - GM guy
"Um....what?" - Me
Yeah, I didn't know the difference just a little over 5 years ago...I ended up being sold on a Springfield xD9. A pretty nice little semi-auto, and in hindsight, something I never should have sold, since it turns out I shot it best of all.
"Lets do the paperwork, have you got your permit?"
"Yup"
A review of my permit, driver's license, filled out Form 4473, and call to NICS (with a "proceed"), and I was out the door with my new toy, a box of hollow point Winchester white box, and no idea what to do next - I went to the range, by myself...thats another story.
The moral of this story:
1) Learn firearm's safety (MN DNR has an excellent course).
2) Take a "Intro to Handguns" class at a local range.
3) Get comfortable shooting handguns, know what works for you, and how they function.
4) Get your Permit to Purchase (or go all out and just get your Carry Permit, it works as a Purchase Permit too).
5) Go buy it (and a safe place to store it as well).
...and for heaven's sake, don't go to Gander Mountain to buy it!
Pat
Showing posts with label carry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label carry. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
More MN Firearms Law
Living in the great State of Minnesota has some advantages:
Warm (not hot) summers
Lakes, therefore great fishing!
Few (if any) poisonous animals
Generally high standard of living
Good Firearms laws (except the whole supressor thing, but thats another post)
Today's entry on that last point is the Minnesota Citizens Personal Protection Act (MNPPA) also known as the "Conceal(sic) and Carry Law". I could spend the whole time typing about the law and all its wonders. But I'm going to focus on a narrow provision of it thats currently giving a friend of mine some trouble.
Once a citizen (in good standing) of Minnesota goes through the process to qualify for, and receive their "carry" permit - they must constantly be aware of where they may, and may not carry their firearm.
Today's topic: Colleges and Universities
These come in two flavors here in MN - public and private. Private institutions are no different than any other private property, and, for better or worse, you must respect the property owner's wishes regarding access (and conditions) on their property.
Public institutions here in MN are a different story though, thanks to the MNPPA. I'll point out the following language from MN Statute 624.714:
Subd. 18.Employers; public colleges and universities.(a) An employer, whether public or private, may establish policies that restrict the carry or possession of firearms by its employees while acting in the course and scope of employment. Employment related civil sanctions may be invoked for a violation.
(b) A public postsecondary institution regulated under chapter 136F or 137 may establish policies that restrict the carry or possession of firearms by its students while on the institution's property. Academic sanctions may be invoked for a violation. (The bolding is mine).
The words "Employees" and "students" is significant. Notice whats missing?
The words "EVERYONE ELSE" or "GENERAL PUBLIC". As in, a public University or College in our great state may NOT invoke or create any policies/rules/regulations banning permitted carry from their premises.
They simply can't do it...now, that doesn't mean they won't try.
As my friend "Lumpy" recently pointed out on a local Forum:
"Except that if a State Fair cop or a University cop tells you you're trespassing and that you must leave immediately, then the only right you have left at that point is to sue after the fact. If you argue and refuse, then you've failed the attitude test, and you're guilty of refusing a police order, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, etc., etc., etc. And no matter what eventually happens regarding your carrying, you still disrespected authority. There is nothing more terrifying, nothing, than being at the mercy of a bully with a badge."
True -- the police officer would be wrong, but you'd only be entitled to as much justice as you can afford.
Stay safe out there!
Pat
Warm (not hot) summers
Lakes, therefore great fishing!
Few (if any) poisonous animals
Generally high standard of living
Good Firearms laws (except the whole supressor thing, but thats another post)
Today's entry on that last point is the Minnesota Citizens Personal Protection Act (MNPPA) also known as the "Conceal(sic) and Carry Law". I could spend the whole time typing about the law and all its wonders. But I'm going to focus on a narrow provision of it thats currently giving a friend of mine some trouble.
Once a citizen (in good standing) of Minnesota goes through the process to qualify for, and receive their "carry" permit - they must constantly be aware of where they may, and may not carry their firearm.
Today's topic: Colleges and Universities
These come in two flavors here in MN - public and private. Private institutions are no different than any other private property, and, for better or worse, you must respect the property owner's wishes regarding access (and conditions) on their property.
Public institutions here in MN are a different story though, thanks to the MNPPA. I'll point out the following language from MN Statute 624.714:
Subd. 18.Employers; public colleges and universities.(a) An employer, whether public or private, may establish policies that restrict the carry or possession of firearms by its employees while acting in the course and scope of employment. Employment related civil sanctions may be invoked for a violation.
(b) A public postsecondary institution regulated under chapter 136F or 137 may establish policies that restrict the carry or possession of firearms by its students while on the institution's property. Academic sanctions may be invoked for a violation. (The bolding is mine).
The words "Employees" and "students" is significant. Notice whats missing?
The words "EVERYONE ELSE" or "GENERAL PUBLIC". As in, a public University or College in our great state may NOT invoke or create any policies/rules/regulations banning permitted carry from their premises.
They simply can't do it...now, that doesn't mean they won't try.
As my friend "Lumpy" recently pointed out on a local Forum:
"Except that if a State Fair cop or a University cop tells you you're trespassing and that you must leave immediately, then the only right you have left at that point is to sue after the fact. If you argue and refuse, then you've failed the attitude test, and you're guilty of refusing a police order, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, etc., etc., etc. And no matter what eventually happens regarding your carrying, you still disrespected authority. There is nothing more terrifying, nothing, than being at the mercy of a bully with a badge."
True -- the police officer would be wrong, but you'd only be entitled to as much justice as you can afford.
Stay safe out there!
Pat
Monday, January 23, 2012
Starbucks Appreciation Day
I realize many of you guys probably don't buy expensive coffee often (myself included), but this was too good to pass up.
The Coalition AgainstHuman Rights Gun Violence (CSGV or some other shell) is organizing a "Boycott Starbucks" day on Valentine's Day, February 14th. Naturally, the Pro-Gunnie Blogs are organizing a counter protest called "Starbucks Appreciation Day". Go to Starbucks on the 14th, and buy something -- even a small cup of coffee. Be sure to tell them you're there because they respect human rights, and the law! Show them just how many of us are out there - Grassroots organizing is what we do best.
Info @Sebastian's
Later!
Pat
The Coalition Against
Info @Sebastian's
Later!
Pat
Friday, January 20, 2012
"Stand Your Ground"
So, last year, we tried to amend Minnesota's self-defense laws in a positive way.
Currently, MN self-defense law consists of 609.06, which reads, in part ('cause its long):
609.06 AUTHORIZED USE OF FORCE.
Subdivision 1.When authorized...reasonable* force may be used upon or toward the person of another without the other's consent when the following circumstances exist or the actor reasonably* believes them to exist: (*there's that "reasonable person" standard popping up)
(1) (deals with police)
(2) (deals with arrest not by police)
(3) when used by any person in resisting or aiding another to resist an offense against the person; or
(4) when used by any person in lawful possession of real or personal property, or by another assisting the person in lawful possession, in resisting a trespass upon or other unlawful interference with such property; or
etc etc etc
So there it is. You're allowed to use reasonable force when resisting an offense against you, or someone else. "Reasonable" force means, if you're confronted by someone waving a feather - you're not allowed to shoot them. However, if you're confronted with a fear of death or great bodily harm - you've thereby met the standard. Now, many have pointed out: "But that doesn't look so bad, it would appear you can defend yourself anywhere, anytime".
BUT we must then turn to "case" law. I must state that I'm not a lawyer (and don't rely on my statements alone - better yet, look them up for yourself!).
State v. Johnson, 277 Minn. 368, 373, 152 N.W.2d 529, 532 (1967) wrote:
It is well settled that there is a duty to retreat and avoid danger if reasonably possible.
State v. Austin, 1983, 332 N.W.2d 21. Homicide 1485 wrote:
...[B]efore you can avail yourself of self-defense, you must retreat and avoid the danger if you can reasonably do so....[I]f you can reasonably avoid it, you must retreat and avoid the danger, rather than charge into the fight and flail away....
These were two cases which brought up whats referred to as the "duty to retreat". Basically, when confronted by a "reasonable fear of death or great bodily harm" you must first try to get away from the situation.
Now, most of us don't go looking for trouble. I was told a long time ago by my parents: "Don't do STUPID things, with STUPID people, in STUPID places." So, stay away from trouble -- however, if trouble finds you...doesn't matter if its in your garage, the parking lot at the mall, the pharmacy, everywhere EXCEPT your home (more on this in a few), you have a duty to retreat - you must try and get away.
Now, that sounds easy right? Just turn around and run. But...
1) Putting your back to your attacker is #badideajeans
2) What if you can't? ie. small confined area, icy, disabled, etc...
Sounds silly! You can't tell your attacker to "BACK THE F OFF"...YOU have to try and get away first. Only if you've attempted retreat, or retreat is impossible, can force be authorized by the statute.
Back to last year's legislation -- S.F. 1357: Defense of Dwelling and Person Act of 2011, would have retified this discrepancy, and removed the duty to retreat.
There was plenty of hand-wringing from Joan/Heather and Co (I won't link, but google "Protect" MN)...that this would lead to "blood in the streets"...even though it would NOT have removed the "Reasonable" person standard. Only if faced with a "reasonable" threat of death or great bodily harm, would deadly force have been authorized. Thats something our opponents conveniently leave out of the argument.
When it comes up again this year - I'm hoping that people actually READ the bill -- rather than succumb to catchy names! We need to make law abiding citizens not have to scramble around, looking for an exit, potentially falling down, getting hit in the back, etc... when faced with death or great bodily harm.
Later,
Pat
Currently, MN self-defense law consists of 609.06, which reads, in part ('cause its long):
609.06 AUTHORIZED USE OF FORCE.
Subdivision 1.When authorized...reasonable* force may be used upon or toward the person of another without the other's consent when the following circumstances exist or the actor reasonably* believes them to exist: (*there's that "reasonable person" standard popping up)
(1) (deals with police)
(2) (deals with arrest not by police)
(3) when used by any person in resisting or aiding another to resist an offense against the person; or
(4) when used by any person in lawful possession of real or personal property, or by another assisting the person in lawful possession, in resisting a trespass upon or other unlawful interference with such property; or
etc etc etc
So there it is. You're allowed to use reasonable force when resisting an offense against you, or someone else. "Reasonable" force means, if you're confronted by someone waving a feather - you're not allowed to shoot them. However, if you're confronted with a fear of death or great bodily harm - you've thereby met the standard. Now, many have pointed out: "But that doesn't look so bad, it would appear you can defend yourself anywhere, anytime".
BUT we must then turn to "case" law. I must state that I'm not a lawyer (and don't rely on my statements alone - better yet, look them up for yourself!).
State v. Johnson, 277 Minn. 368, 373, 152 N.W.2d 529, 532 (1967) wrote:
It is well settled that there is a duty to retreat and avoid danger if reasonably possible.
State v. Austin, 1983, 332 N.W.2d 21. Homicide 1485 wrote:
...[B]efore you can avail yourself of self-defense, you must retreat and avoid the danger if you can reasonably do so....[I]f you can reasonably avoid it, you must retreat and avoid the danger, rather than charge into the fight and flail away....
These were two cases which brought up whats referred to as the "duty to retreat". Basically, when confronted by a "reasonable fear of death or great bodily harm" you must first try to get away from the situation.
Now, most of us don't go looking for trouble. I was told a long time ago by my parents: "Don't do STUPID things, with STUPID people, in STUPID places." So, stay away from trouble -- however, if trouble finds you...doesn't matter if its in your garage, the parking lot at the mall, the pharmacy, everywhere EXCEPT your home (more on this in a few), you have a duty to retreat - you must try and get away.
Now, that sounds easy right? Just turn around and run. But...
1) Putting your back to your attacker is #badideajeans
2) What if you can't? ie. small confined area, icy, disabled, etc...
Sounds silly! You can't tell your attacker to "BACK THE F OFF"...YOU have to try and get away first. Only if you've attempted retreat, or retreat is impossible, can force be authorized by the statute.
Back to last year's legislation -- S.F. 1357: Defense of Dwelling and Person Act of 2011, would have retified this discrepancy, and removed the duty to retreat.
There was plenty of hand-wringing from Joan/Heather and Co (I won't link, but google "Protect" MN)...that this would lead to "blood in the streets"...even though it would NOT have removed the "Reasonable" person standard. Only if faced with a "reasonable" threat of death or great bodily harm, would deadly force have been authorized. Thats something our opponents conveniently leave out of the argument.
When it comes up again this year - I'm hoping that people actually READ the bill -- rather than succumb to catchy names! We need to make law abiding citizens not have to scramble around, looking for an exit, potentially falling down, getting hit in the back, etc... when faced with death or great bodily harm.
Later,
Pat
Thursday, January 19, 2012
My carrying a handgun...
There, I said it...I regularly carry a handgun (don't worry, I have a permit, and practice all the time!).
It probably goes without saying that my family members' and my life are undeniably important to me. I would do anything for my wife and children.
I do my best to protect them from harm. I have fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, seat belts, insurance...nutritious food, warm clothing....I do everything I can to make sure we stay safe, healthy, and protected...
...including the carrying of a self-defense weapon. In March of 2010, I took a Minnesota Carry Class. I had honestly no intention of ever actually carrying a handgun for defense. I took the class to learn more about the laws and regulations surrounding self-defense, and firearms usage in my home state and Nationwide.
My eyes were opened. Far from a problem "solver" handguns are a problem "maker" if used improperly. For example, simply showing a firearm to someone who perceives it as a threat can be prosecuted as Assault. A felony! In MN, if you or someone else is not in immediate danger of death or great bodily harm - deadly force is NOT authorized by any statute. These are the types of things you must learn and know before choosing to carry a handgun. I'm now rarely without my carry, and usually only for cases where carrying would be a crime (schools, post office etc). This is how I prepare.
It was the class that made me want to look up information concerning firearms. It led me to two sites with information specific to Minnesotans:
Minnesota GunTalk
The Minnesota Carry Forum
Both sites provided me with valuable insight into the intricacies of firearms. There is some bawdy behavior (to be expected on the Intarwebs!) but all in all, a good experience, and I've made many friends.
Learn about firearms. If you're interested, take a carry class. The Minnesota Association of Defensive Firearm Instructors (MADFI) has a great list of talented people.
Take care!
Pat
It probably goes without saying that my family members' and my life are undeniably important to me. I would do anything for my wife and children.
I do my best to protect them from harm. I have fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, seat belts, insurance...nutritious food, warm clothing....I do everything I can to make sure we stay safe, healthy, and protected...
...including the carrying of a self-defense weapon. In March of 2010, I took a Minnesota Carry Class. I had honestly no intention of ever actually carrying a handgun for defense. I took the class to learn more about the laws and regulations surrounding self-defense, and firearms usage in my home state and Nationwide.
My eyes were opened. Far from a problem "solver" handguns are a problem "maker" if used improperly. For example, simply showing a firearm to someone who perceives it as a threat can be prosecuted as Assault. A felony! In MN, if you or someone else is not in immediate danger of death or great bodily harm - deadly force is NOT authorized by any statute. These are the types of things you must learn and know before choosing to carry a handgun. I'm now rarely without my carry, and usually only for cases where carrying would be a crime (schools, post office etc). This is how I prepare.
It was the class that made me want to look up information concerning firearms. It led me to two sites with information specific to Minnesotans:
Minnesota GunTalk
The Minnesota Carry Forum
Both sites provided me with valuable insight into the intricacies of firearms. There is some bawdy behavior (to be expected on the Intarwebs!) but all in all, a good experience, and I've made many friends.
Learn about firearms. If you're interested, take a carry class. The Minnesota Association of Defensive Firearm Instructors (MADFI) has a great list of talented people.
Take care!
Pat
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
I lit a candle...
...and I'll never be a "victim" of gun violence. I choose my own destiny. I mourn the dead, and I deplore violence...I simply choose NOT to be a victim.
Later!
Pat
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