Newbie here

[rkoranek]

Hi All, I am a newbie here. My CHL instructor told us to check this site out for some really good info. I have been lurking on the site since class and he was right. I took my chl class about a week ago, just sent it off Thursday, so i know i have a wait ahead of me due to DPS'S back log. My question is, due to the Castle doctrine changes in 2007 that allows you to carry in a vehicle that you own or are lawfully in charge of is legal. I am wondering if any one has carried in there vehicle only prior to recieving there chl and had problems with law enforcement after being stopped and having a pistole and no chl. I am a law obeying citizen and just dont want to be considered a BADGUY with a gun and no chl yet.

Thanks-
RObert
Springfield XD 40

[SlowDave]

Since you wouldn't be doing anything illegal, I don't see how the police would treat you as a "bad guy". This law change came after I got my CHL, so cannot comment personally, but I have instructed others of their right to carry in the car w/o a CHL. Should be fine.

[Rokyudai]

Welcome rkoranek!

I am going to assume that you want to carry in your car until you get that plastic! I have had no pre chl carry experience. My advice (which is worth the price) is to keep it in your car/truck accessible yet concealed. If you are in a traffic stop, let the LEO guide the conversation. Until you have your CHL in hand, you are under no legal obligation to offer information pertaining to the gun in your car. Do not confuse this with being difficult or a roadside lawyer. If he/she asks if there are any guns, knives, weapons in the car/truck, then it is up to you to answer him/her.

Generally speaking, you may encounter LEO's that are pro or anti chl. In the event of a traffic stop... bottom line, they are 'pro-their safety' and we have to be aware of the task(s) they undertake. I think many a prudent person recognizes that the place to argue semantics and letter of the law is in a courtroom and not in the breakdown lane.


Congrats and be patient! Good things are a'comin'!

Rok

[bryang]

I personally did not carry every day in my truck before I received my CHL. However, when I went on trips I did take it with me. As long as you are as you say, an law abiding citizen, you should not have any problems. Be patient you will have your plastic soon...well, maybe not that soon, but you get the idea.
WELCOME!

-geo