Concealed weapon facts for kids
Concealed carry means carrying a handgun or other weapon in a hidden way. This can be on your body or very close by. Most police officers carry their guns where everyone can see them. But some officers, like detectives who don't wear uniforms, carry their guns hidden. In some places, regular people are allowed to carry hidden handguns too.
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Countries and Concealed Carry
Canada
In Canada, carrying a hidden weapon is usually not allowed. The law says you cannot carry a concealed weapon unless you have special permission. This permission is called an Authorization to Carry (ATC).
It is very hard to get an ATC. You can only get one if you are in serious danger and the police cannot protect you enough. Also, people who work in certain jobs, like armored car guards or wildlife protectors, might get an ATC.
Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, people who carry weapons must keep them hidden. The only exceptions are police officers and security guards from the Czech National Bank.
To carry a gun, you need a special gun license. You must have a clean record and pass an exam. Hunters can carry an unloaded rifle openly when going to or from hunting areas. Sometimes, open carry is allowed for special events like filming or festivals.
Mexico
In Mexico, it is very difficult to get a license to carry a hidden weapon. These licenses usually allow only smaller pistols.
United States
Carrying a hidden weapon is legal in most parts of the United States. Some states have strict rules or ban it, but all states allow it with a permit or license. Some states even allow it without a permit, which is called "constitutional carry." Illinois was the last state to allow concealed carry in 2014.
Most states that need a permit have "shall-issue" laws. This means if you meet the rules, the state must give you a permit. Other states have "may-issue" laws. This means they might give you a permit, even if you meet the rules. These states include California, New Jersey, and New York.
In "may-issue" states, it can be easier to get a permit in rural areas than in big cities. For example, it's harder to get a permit in Boston or New York City. Sometimes, people need to show a special reason to carry a gun, like a job that involves moving large amounts of money. Retired police officers or judges might also get permits for their safety.
It can be tricky when you travel between states. A permit from one state might not be recognized in another state. For example, a permit from Utah might let you carry in 25 states. But some states, like California and New York, do not recognize permits from other states at all. There have been efforts to make permits valid everywhere, but this is a difficult issue.
South Africa
In South Africa, it is legal to carry any licensed firearm. You do not need an extra permit to carry it openly or hidden. However, the firearm must be carried safely.
- A handgun must be in a holster on your body or in a bag.
- Other firearms must be in a holder made for them.
The firearm must be completely covered. The person carrying it must be able to control it well. However, private guns are not allowed in many places. These include schools, churches, hospitals, banks, and government buildings. They are also not allowed in some public places like sports stadiums.
Slovakia
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Carrying a hidden gun is not common in Slovakia. Only a small number of adults have a license for it. It is easier to get a handgun for home defense.
To get a gun license, you must be at least 21 years old. You also need a clean criminal record and good mental and physical health. You must pass an oral exam about gun laws and first aid.
It takes about three weeks to get a handgun. It is very rare for someone who is not a professional to get a hidden carry license. There are different types of gun licenses for different reasons. These include carrying for defense, having a gun at home for defense, or using a gun for work, hunting, or sports.
Some types of guns, like air guns and gas pistols, can be bought by anyone over 18 without permission. But fully automatic guns and certain types of bullets are not allowed for self-defense.
Images for kids
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Palestinian Weapons Exposed During Operation Brother’s Keeper
See also
In Spanish: Portación oculta de arma para niños
