Maryland Gun Laws? (Frederick: crime, how much, attorney)

[carolina_guy]

So what's the real scoop with gun laws in Maryland and more importantly conceal carry permits? We are looking to reside in or near Frederick, so do purchase requirements vary between counties?

If CCWs are permitted, what's the process and how much do they infringe on the 2nd Amendment?

Are there gun shops near Frederick?

Thanks!!

[emsgoof]

CCW permits don't exist in Maryland...
Well, they do, but only if you've been the victim of a crime, or are a teacher, or a couple other strict rules. You can be the most safety-conscious person in the world, and they won't let you have a CCW permit.
Gun permits are state-wide, you may have to take the Maryland safety class, but I think it's like a 2 hour video at a police station or something similar. If you have a military background, you can be waived from the course.
I don't remember the wait times, etc, for purchase. Sorry.

[carolina_guy]

Wow, it's pretty strict up there. That sucks...

No permit to purchase required but there is a 7 day waiting period for approval by Maryland State Police.

No carrying weapons in vehicle without reason e.g. to/from gun range, to/from gun shop.

It seems like it's virtually impossible to get a carry permit unless you can prove your life is in immediate danger. Now THAT's a 2nd Amendment infringement!!

So, did I read all of these correctly?

[carolina_guy]

Originally Posted by emsgoof

CCW permits don't exist in Maryland...
Well, they do, but only if you've been the victim of a crime, or are a teacher, or a couple other strict rules. You can be the most safety-conscious person in the world, and they won't let you have a CCW permit.
Gun permits are state-wide, you may have to take the Maryland safety class, but I think it's like a 2 hour video at a police station or something similar. If you have a military background, you can be waived from the course.
I don't remember the wait times, etc, for purchase. Sorry.

Thanks, emsgoof. That sucks about the CCW, but I didn't see anywhere that you need a gun permit. You just have to prove that you are eligible to purchase e.g. no felonies or mental issues, etc.

I guess I'll just have to bank on my trustee Kershaw pocket knife.

[wurd4wurd]

Carolina_guy, Here is a link that you may find useful: ATF Online - Publication 5300.5: State Laws and Published Ordinances - Firearms

[carolina_guy]

Thanks, wurd. I also found a condensed version at MCSM: Maryland Firearm Laws

[cutgarden]

If you're just wanting to carry on a general basis, you won't get the permit. If however, you are a business owner or manager, carry cash regularly, have to travel to purchase with cash, etc, you shouldn't have a problem. Basically, you must show you have a "need" to carry. Just something to keep in mind though, IF you should ever be forced to shoot somebody, for any reason, it'll cost you thousands in attorney's fees. If it's a matter of giving someone some money, or shooting them, I'll give the money. Way cheaper and way less hassle. Of course, if they're coming at you with a knife, shoot fast, shoot often, shoot straight.

[McMatt]

From what I know and have heard the other posts are correct. There is a 7 day period on purchases (which I thought was statewide) but CCW need to be approved by a judge and so you basically need to have a really good reason to get approved for it. Such as you routinely carry cash for your job in rough neighborhoods, you are a detective, security guard, armored car driver or are the subject of witness intimidation. From what I have heard, just wanting peace of mind is not an appropriate reason according to the state. In addition, even if you were the victim of one crime doesn't necessarily mean you will get the CCW.