CCW across multiple states?

D

DasBoot

Moderator
Aside from just keeping it hidden somewhere, how does a licensed (Fla.) carrier go about navigating the USA with the various gun friendly/unfriendly states?
Can I still carry in Washington DC?
And if I'm just passing through a non-carry state, what could I expect to have happen if, for some reason, the piece is spotted somehow.
Either on my person or, say, sticking out from under my drivers seat during a traffic stop?
 
In Illinois, civilians who carry are subject to arrest. Other states' CCW permits are not honored in Illinois. You may be charged with unlawful use of a weapon ("UUW") or possession of a firearm.

In order to legally transport a firearm in Illinois, you must lock your unloaded weapon in the trunk of your car. Preferably, place your ammo in the glove box. Transporting a loaded firearm, even if in the trunk of your car, will all expose you to possible arrest for UUW. If you do not have a trunk on your car (i.e. you drive a pickup truck), unload your firearm and place it in a secure, out-of-sight area; preferably a lockable area located as far away from the driver's seat as possible.
 
Another thing to think about: Illinois has what is called a Firearm Owner Identification Card (FOID card). It's just a generic registration process through the Illinois State Police. All Illinois residents, even police, must possess a FOID card in order to legally possess a firearm -- even in their own home. Illinois residents do not have to field strip the gun while it is in the trunk of the car. However, I would recommend that all non-Illinois residents (since they do not have a FOID card) field strip their weapon while transporting through Illinois. Simply removing the slide and storing that inside the vehicle, but leaving the rest of the weapon in the trunk, should suffice and remove any doubt from an anxious, bullheaded trooper who is bent on giving you a new set of bracelets.
 
Unless I absolutely have to for business or to get somewhere else I want to be I stay out of states that don't allow me to carry. If they don't want my gun they don't get my money. I will stop close to the border and fill up so I don't have to state gasoline taxes in states that don't support CCW.
 
Unless I absolutely have to for business or to get somewhere else I want to be I stay out of states that don't allow me to carry. If they don't want my gun they don't get my money. I will stop close to the border and fill up so I don't have to state gasoline taxes in states that don't support CCW.
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That sounds like a good idea to me. I may have to take a close look at packing.org next time I take a trip.
 
packing.org is a good start for looking up other states carry laws.... I would also suggest that you contact the states attorney general or state police for info.
 
And if I'm just passing through a non-carry state, what could I expect to have happen if, for some reason, the piece is spotted somehow.
Either on my person or, say, sticking out from under my drivers seat during a traffic stop?
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Ever looked down the barrel of a loaded firearm in the hands of a screaming assailant? You just might have that unique opportunity if you're made in a non-carry state or DC.
 
This question comes up all the time here, and on other forums. Frankly, the chances of getting cought are pretty darn slim. I have always just done what I felt prudent, to make sure I could protect myself and my family when traveling. Your Florida CCW is respected in many states. For example, I was up in Virginia last week. I was covered in Georgia, NC, and Virginia. Going through SC, I just left the AR in the trunk, and several pistols either in the glove box or beside the front seat. I never gave it a thought.
The worst the police might do pales in comparison to what some criminal can and will do.
 
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