Carrying a hidden weapon in Illinois comes with a lot of responsibilities. If you have a concealed carry license in Illinois, it’s important to know the rules, best safety practices, and ways to stay aware and avoid trouble. Concealed carry training in Illinois prepares you for responsible concealed gun carrying.

This blog will cover these key points, helping you carry your weapon daily with confidence and within the law.

 

Legal Rules for Concealed Carry in Illinois

On July 9, 2013, the Firearm Concealed Carry Act (Public Act 98-63) became law in Illinois. This law says you need an Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) to legally carry a hidden gun. Here are the main legal points you need to know:

1. Who Can Get a License: To get a CCL, you need to be at least 21 years old, have a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card, and meet certain rules about your criminal record and mental health history​​​​.
2. Training Needed: You must complete 16 hours of gun training approved by the Illinois State Police (ISP). This training covers gun safety, shooting basics, cleaning guns, the laws about guns, and how to interact with police while carrying a gun​​​​.
3. Medical Marijuana Users: If you have a Medical Marijuana License, it doesn’t stop you from getting a FOID card or CCL under Illinois law. But federal law has rules that prohibit gun possession for medical marijuana users. Know these federal rules to avoid legal problems​​.
4. Renewing Your License: The CCL is good for five years. To renew, you need to complete at least three hours of additional gun training and pass a background check. You will get a notice 180 days before your license expires​​.

Safe Practices for Carrying a Concealed Weapon

When you carry a hidden gun, safety must come first. Here are some basic practices to make sure you handle and carry your gun safely:

1. Use a Holster: Always use a good holster that covers the trigger, holds the gun securely, and lets you access it quickly. The holster should be comfortable and fit your daily activities.
2. Keep Your Gun in Good Condition: Keep your gun clean and in safe working condition. This usually means carrying it with a round in the chamber if you are trained and comfortable with this.
3. Train Regularly: Practice regularly, including live-fire exercises, dry-fire practice, and scenario-based training. This helps you stay good at handling your gun safely and effectively, even under stress​​​​.
4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always know what’s happening around you. Being alert to potential threats and understanding your environment can help prevent situations where you might need to use your gun.

Situational Awareness

Situational awareness is very important when carrying a hidden gun. It means being aware of your surroundings, spotting potential threats, and understanding the context of any situation. Here are some tips to improve your situational awareness:

1. The Cooper Color Code: This is a system to describe awareness levels, from Condition White (unaware) to Condition Red (ready to act). Staying in Condition Yellow (alert but relaxed) helps you stay prepared without being paranoid.
2. Scan and Assess: Regularly look around and assess any potential threats. Look for unusual behavior, know where exits are, and have a plan for different scenarios.
3. Trust Your Gut: If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. Your subconscious can notice subtle signs of danger. It’s better to avoid a potentially dangerous situation than to face a threat unprepared.
4. Know Your Environment: Be familiar with the layout of places you go often, like your home, work, and regular routes. Knowing your environment helps in planning escape routes and safe spots.

Avoiding Conflict

The best way to win a fight is to avoid it. Here are some practical tips to avoid conflict:

1. Use De-escalation Techniques: Learn and practice ways to calm down a situation. This includes using calm body language, speaking gently, and avoiding aggressive stances.
2. Avoid Trouble Spots: Stay away from places known for trouble and avoid confrontations whenever possible. If a situation starts to escalate, leave before it becomes dangerous.
3. Understand Use of Force: Know the rules about using force and follow them strictly. Your gun should be a last resort, used only when there is an immediate threat to your life or someone else’s.
4. Know the Law: Be fully aware of the legal consequences of using your gun. Knowing when and how you can legally defend yourself helps avoid legal problems.

Practical Examples and Responses

To understand these ideas better, let’s look at some practical examples and how to respond:

1. Public Argument: If you see an argument getting heated in public, move away from the conflict. If it gets violent, find a safe place and call the police. Only think about using your gun if there is an immediate threat to life.
2. Home Invasion: If someone breaks into your home, go to a safe spot where you can watch the intruder. Call the police and loudly announce that you are armed and the police are coming. Use your gun only if the intruder threatens you or your family.
3. Road Rage: If another driver shows road rage, don’t engage. Avoid eye contact, keep your windows up, and lock your doors. Drive to a busy place or police station if you feel threatened. Keep your gun hidden unless directly threatened with deadly force.

Conclusion

Carrying a hidden weapon is a big responsibility that demands understanding of the law, safety practices, situational awareness, and conflict avoidance. By following these guidelines, you can carry responsibly and be ready to protect yourself and others.

Remember, the main goal of carrying a concealed gun is to ensure your safety and those around you. Always try to de-escalate and avoid conflicts, and use your gun as a last resort. Continuous training and awareness are key to being a responsible and effective concealed carry license holder.

For more info on getting your concealed carry license or to sign up for training, visit Concealed Carry Safety for Personal Defense Inc.. Stay informed, stay trained, and stay safe.