Posted: 9/13/2006 2:37:23 PM EDT
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I'm in limbo right now. My CCW license expired and they have not processed my renewal yet. I stopped carrying concealed so I won't get in trouble. I tote my gun around in it's gun case until I get to work and home. If I carry open and get in my car is it concealed since it will be hidden by a seatbelt? I carry it in the case unloaded because I feel that might be considered concealed as well. I just don't want to break the damn law and get into trouble over something so stupid. Can anybody shed some light on this problem for me? |
Hidden by the seatbelt...technically no, but YMMV depending on officer interpretation and descretion. Carrying it in a case loaded/unloaded while within reach of anyone in the passenger compartment....yes, CCW unless the case is physically locked but then again YMMV as above. Carry the gun open and loaded if you feel comfortable and when you get to the car, unholster and lay it in the passenger seat. Oh, hope you're not in Meck Co. cause if you are you'll be old and gray by the time you get it renewed!!! |
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My CCW instructor stated that loaded and sitting on the passenger seat, on your person, or in the glovebox all constitute concealed carry. It has to be readily visible, that means on your dash. I don't agree with it and I definitely think it's silly, but that's what he said. Call you local sherrif's office for the real deal. |
Having been in LE for a number of years with 2 different departments I will concur about the glove box. Some of the old-timers (like me) will let you slide if the glove box is locked...but I've seen a few get the hook for it. On your person is a 75% chance your gonna get cuffs...again it all depends on the officer you come across. As for the pistol laying in the passenger seat, you'd really have to have one angry or rookie cop to get the hook for that. I don't know if you've ever tried driving around with a loaded pistol on your dash, but I'd say you would want a quality handgun with good saftey features if you value your life. I'd also like to see you try driving thru any major city in NC with a pistol on your dash and find out how many citizens call the police saying there's a man brandishing a weapon! Common sense would dictate how to handle this situation. If it's laying in the passenger seat when John Q. Law turns on the blues, carefully place it on the dash as you come to a stop. Everything will be ok....worked for years for me. I claim to be no expert but having a number of years of LE with 2 departments, a BA in Criminal Justice/NC Law, and also a CCW instructor I think I am qualified to comment on this. Oh, UH_SALT_RIFLE...remember that the 90-day mark with no renewell means that they HAVE to issue you a permit. Shall issue state, gotta love it. |
My thoughts exactly!!! I even questioned the instructor... thanks for clearing up. |
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I have been pulled over once, and went through several liscense checks with mine loaded, holstered, and laying on the seat beside me. I always keep my hands on the steering wheel and tell the officer as soon as he comes up to me. Never had a problem. They have always been extremely polite. One (SHP) even asked how I liked the particular pistol I was carrying at the time. He had been wanting to get one. |
And you do not have a CCW permit? |
| Having it on the seat shouldn't get you hooked up since you arent making an attempt to conceal it. I know I havent charged anyone with a CCW offense when I found a pistol carried in such a manner. In the glove box and you didnt tell me about it when I approached....... we might have some issues. |
No, I have been through the class, just never had the time to go up and put the paperwork in. One of those things I need to do. |
--but after a 4 month wait, you can CCW again--it's my turn next. 
