Self-Defense: Here Are the Legal Implications You Should Know

The right to bear arms is not something that you should take lightly. Gun users that are serious about self-defense should look into a legal and legitimate LTC online course. Continued training and education are an important part of gun ownership, and a great way to keep yourself disciplined. Once you factor in individual laws on self-defense, your training becomes even more vital. 

Castle Doctrine

When an intruder breaks into your home, it gives you a self-defense justification. Unfortunately, like all gun laws, castle doctrine is ultimately determined on a state to state basis. Gun owners also have to be careful with the amount of force they use on a fleeing intruder. Shooting an aggressive intruder is not the same as shooting someone running away. It’s also important to have your gun close at hand, but yet still concealed, at the bedside table. This is where a gun magnet could be perfect for you.

Weapon Choice

You can’t carry an AK-47 around in public and claim self-defense if you have to use it. Gun laws also cover the type of gun you choose to carry. If your current weapon is illegal to carry out in public, then self-defense is a hard argument to pull off in court. This also applies to modified guns that are used to get past current laws based on their type. 

Crossing State Lines

Any old or current service member is familiar with the strict laws about carrying a personal weapon on or away from the base. For individuals that don’t serve, the law really isn’t that much different. Even if you have a carry and conceal permit, it does not translate to all out of state areas. The burden of knowledge is on the gun owner, so ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Many gun owners have lost both their permits and weapons for carrying across state lines. 

Brandishing

Brandishing is unholstering a firearm in a situation that doesn’t require self-defense. That means you can break several laws before you even point your gun at the offending party. When you get busted for brandishing, there is a good chance law enforcement will take away your weapon. This is something that no gun owner wants on their permanent record. 

Are You Allowed to Use A Gun?

A minor is not allowed to own a gun, and this is a law that carries across several states and countries. What is less clear cut is whether you need to be registered or have a permit to own a gun. Some states require it, some don’t. In some states, the only barrier to owning a gun is your age. 

Stand Your Ground Laws

The most controversial gun law is stand your ground. This self-defense law is often used, and incredibly fluid in its meaning. The law itself intersects with a lot of other gun laws like castle doctrine, brandishing and being the aggressor. Gun owners that ‘stand their ground’ have to prove without a shadow of a doubt that it was defense related. 

Wrap Up

Pay attention to guns laws, as they change constantly. You never want to be the last person to know how laws affect your self-defense methods. Practice your self-defense drills and keep informed to optimize your defense strategies.