Does Missouri Have Open Gun Carry?
Missouri, like many other states in the United States, has a complex and sometimes contradictory system of gun laws. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of Missouri’s gun laws and answer the question on everyone’s mind: Does Missouri have open gun carry?
What is Open Gun Carry?
Before we dive into the details of Missouri’s laws, it’s essential to understand what open gun carry is. Open gun carry, also known as constitutional carry, is the ability for law-abiding citizens to carry a firearm openly without a permit or license. This means that a person can carry a holstered weapon in plain sight without restriction.
Missouri Gun Laws
Missouri’s gun laws are regulated by the Missouri Revised Statutes, specifically Chapter 570, which covers the transportation, possession, and carry of firearms. In 2016, Missouri lawmakers passed a bill allowing Missourians to carry a concealed firearm without a permit, but this did not necessarily mean that they had open gun carry.
Constitutional Carry in Missouri
Missouri became the 14th state to adopt constitutional carry when Senate Bill 519 was signed into law on July 12, 2016. This law abolished the requirement for a permit to carry a concealed weapon and allows individuals 21 years of age or older to carry a concealed firearm. However, it did not extend to open carry, meaning that individuals still require a permit to carry a holstered weapon in plain sight.
Permitted Concealed Carry
Under Missouri law, individuals who meet the following criteria are authorized to carry a concealed firearm:
- Are at least 21 years old
- Are not a felon
- Are not otherwise prohibited from possessing or transporting a firearm
- Complete a firearms safety course, if required
Those who meet these criteria can carry a concealed firearm without a permit, but must still comply with federal regulations, such as background checks for firearm purchases.
Open Carry with Permit
However, there is a caveat to Missouri’s concealed carry law. While concealed carry is permitted without a permit, open carry is allowed with a permit. According to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 571.307, individuals who obtain a permit to carry a firearm can also carry a holstered weapon in plain sight.
Permitted Open Carry
To obtain a permit to carry a firearm in Missouri, individuals must:
- Complete a firearms safety course, if required
- Apply for a permit through their local sheriff’s office or a designated permit issuing authority
- Pay the requisite fee
- Submit fingerprints and undergo a background check
Once issued, a permit holder can carry a holstered weapon in plain sight, but must still comply with federal regulations.
Other Relevant Laws and Regulations
In addition to the laws governing concealed and open carry, Missouri has other relevant laws and regulations that gun owners should be aware of:
- Age Restrictions: Missouri prohibits the sale or transfer of firearms to individuals under 21 years of age.
- Background Checks: Federal law requires background checks for firearm purchases and transfers.
- Firearms Safety Courses: Many sheriffs’ offices require applicants for concealed carry permits to complete a firearms safety course.
- Gun-Free Zones: Missouri has specific laws regulating the possession and carry of firearms in public places, such as schools, government buildings, and certain public transportation facilities.
Conclusion
In summary, Missouri does not have open gun carry in the classical sense, where a law-abiding citizen can carry a holstered weapon in plain sight without a permit. However, with a permit, individuals can carry a holstered weapon in plain sight, while concealed carry is allowed without a permit for those who meet the necessary criteria.
Here is a table summarizing the key points:
| Type of Carry | Permit Required | Open Carry Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Concealed Carry | No | Yes (for those who meet necessary criteria) |
| Open Carry | Yes (with permit) | Yes |
Remember to always follow state and federal laws regarding the possession and carry of firearms, and consult with law enforcement or a firearms professional if you have any questions or concerns.
