Why Take a CCW Class?

This is a question that surely many have asked themselves. Those who have knowledge of guns, or have more than a cursory exposure to them, will usually take a Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) class to obtain a concealed carry license as required by law. Individuals with little to no knowledge of guns may not see the benefits of taking a CCW class for other than obtaining a concealed carry license. However, both types of gun owners will benefit from taking a CCW class for more than just getting a concealed carry license.

First, the most important thing that is taught in a CCW class is the attitude required for owning and using a firearm safely. Guns are neither safe nor unsafe by themselves.  Only when gun owners learn and practice responsible gun ownership are guns safe. 

Guns must be viewed as a tool and must be respected as such. They should not be feared; as inanimate objects they cannot cause harm if left alone. It is only when respect for them is lost or someone uses them erroneously, or for deliberate criminal action, that bad things happen. This is no different than a carpenter using an electric circular saw to cut lumber. A loss of respect for this tool may cause the carpenter to cut off a finger or worse. That is why carpenters follow strict safety protocols when using this very useful but dangerous tool. That is why having the correct attitude by learning gun safety and the proper use of a gun is so important.

Second, a CCW class will provide a primer on the laws governing the possession, conveyance, and use of guns for personal protection. Each of these topics have specific statues that must be known and understood to keep the gun owner from ending up on the wrong side of the law.

For example, if a gun owner uses a firearm in a defensive situation, there are three conditions under Ohio law that must be proven by a preponderance of the evidence to justify the use of deadly force. Moreover, it must be understood that ignorance of the law is not a defense.

The expectation is that if a person is going to own or even carry a gun, one will take the time to learn the laws and statutes governing guns. When you go to the Sheriff’s office to apply for your concealed carry license you will be asked if you have read the Ohio’s Concealed Carry Laws publication, which summarizes prevailing firearms and self-defense laws.

By attending a CCW class, you will learn the basic laws governing firearms and will where to get additional information. While it is not intended to be a substitute for advice from a competent attorney, it will provide an introduction to gun laws and some commons sense advice.

Finally, a CCW class will teach the basics of shooting. These include, but are not limited to, common pistol action types, explaining the difference between a revolver and a pistol and their corresponding parts, cartridge components, the three rules of safe gun handling, and the five fundamentals of shooting.

Then there is the fun, but sometimes nerve racking, range competency examination. While many think that the range portion of the course is just focused on the ability to shoot, it involves much more. The most important thing being tested is the individual’s attitude such as whether the shooter is following the three laws of proper gun handling, is demonstrating proper muzzle awareness, and is following commands, etc. Safety is the prime skill being tested during the range portion of the class. Only when a proper attitude is observed can shooting accuracy be tested.

In summary, it is recommended that all gun owners, or prospective gun owners, take a CCW class. Just like with anything else in life you want to pursue, learning more about it is the first step. Learning the basics is the first step towards a more enjoyable and effective experience. So don’t delay, make a decision today for acquiring knowledge that will take you to the next level of gun ownership, take a CCW class. You will not regret it.