Rick's Firearm Academy has officially announced their 2010 schedule for Concealed Pistol License (CCW/CPL) classes:
Saturday, January 16th, 2010
Saturday, January 30th, 2010
Saturday, February 13th, 2010
Sunday, February 28th, 2010
Saturday, March 13th, 2010
Sunday, March 28th, 2010
Saturday, April 10th, 2010
Sunday, April 25th, 2010
Saturday, May 8th, 2010
Sunday, May 23rd, 2010
Saturday, June 5th, 2010
Sunday, June 27th, 2010
Sunday, July 18th, 2010
Saturday, July 31rst, 2010
Sunday, August 15th, 2010
Saturday, August 28th, 2010
Sunday, September 19th, 2010
Saturday, October 2nd, 2010
Sunday, October 17th, 2010
Saturday, October 30th, 2010
Sunday, November 14th, 2010
Saturday, November 27th, 2010
Sunday, December 12th, 2010
Sunday, December 26th, 2010
To register, visit one of the above links that best matches up with your personal schedule.
Go to our 2011 Class Calendar
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Don't Bring In The New Year With Gun-Fire Demonstrations
Detroit has "unique" traditions. One such tradition is the burning of cars (i.e. car-be-cues) and abandoned buildings on Angel's Night (AKA Devil's Night). However, recent governmental administrations have called upon the community to conduct citizen's patrols to help the police and fire department monitor the city. Recent efforts have been successful to keep the number of arsons down during this period.
However, another Detroit tradition continues unabated. Many people in this town feel the need to shoot their firearms at midnight. In fact, some idiots can't wait and start shooting at early as 11:00 p.m.
A casual observer to our town may think it is a celebratory gesture. Nothing could be further from the truth. The truly astute people here know that people engage in this reckless behavior for essentially one purpose: to let other folks in the hood know that this house has guns and that its residents are not afraid to use them.
Shooting a firearm while it is aimed at the sky is reckless. Simple physics dictates that what goes up (i.e. the bullet) must come down. The perpetrator of this self-less act is often deluded that his act is harmless. A bullet falling from the sky is traveling at 700 feet/second when it comes to rest. This velocity is more than enough to penetrate the skull of an adult.
Sometime during the night tonight and a throughout a period in the wee hours of the next morning, it will be literally be raining bullets in the city of Detroit. As a consequence of the hail of lead falling from the sky, many Detroiters are forced to bring in the New Year in their basements. Apartment dwellers will be forced to take their chances by only being able to lie on the floor of their units. You know how the saying goes, "bullets don't have any names on them."
Thus, I ask you - my fellow Detroiters - to end this practice of shooting guns in the sky at the dawn of a new year. This irresponsible act could needlessly end someone's life. If you don't own a gun, but know someone who does and has plans to shoot it in the sky take a moment to talk him out of it.
However, another Detroit tradition continues unabated. Many people in this town feel the need to shoot their firearms at midnight. In fact, some idiots can't wait and start shooting at early as 11:00 p.m.
A casual observer to our town may think it is a celebratory gesture. Nothing could be further from the truth. The truly astute people here know that people engage in this reckless behavior for essentially one purpose: to let other folks in the hood know that this house has guns and that its residents are not afraid to use them.
Shooting a firearm while it is aimed at the sky is reckless. Simple physics dictates that what goes up (i.e. the bullet) must come down. The perpetrator of this self-less act is often deluded that his act is harmless. A bullet falling from the sky is traveling at 700 feet/second when it comes to rest. This velocity is more than enough to penetrate the skull of an adult.
Sometime during the night tonight and a throughout a period in the wee hours of the next morning, it will be literally be raining bullets in the city of Detroit. As a consequence of the hail of lead falling from the sky, many Detroiters are forced to bring in the New Year in their basements. Apartment dwellers will be forced to take their chances by only being able to lie on the floor of their units. You know how the saying goes, "bullets don't have any names on them."
Thus, I ask you - my fellow Detroiters - to end this practice of shooting guns in the sky at the dawn of a new year. This irresponsible act could needlessly end someone's life. If you don't own a gun, but know someone who does and has plans to shoot it in the sky take a moment to talk him out of it.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
What Every Firearm Owner Should Know About Gun Safety
Over the least few days, I have read several stories in the local Detroit-area media about firearm accidents which, in my humble opinion, were caused by a lack of knowledge of simple safe gun handling and usage rules. Earlier today, I "tweeted" a lot of info about gun safety via Twitter.
For austerity, I am assembling that info here for you to read and apply, where necessary, to make you a safer user of firearms.
If you don't know the 3 Fundamentals of Gun Safety - by the number - don't handle a firearm until you do.
Rule 0 - Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded at all times.
Rule 1 - Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction.
Rule 2 - Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
Rule 3 - Always keep firearms "not in use" unloaded and locked away from unauthorized users.
Rule 4 - Always be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Do not attempt to clean your firearm until you have verified that it is unloaded.
Pulling the trigger is NOT how you safely determine whether your firearm is loaded.
Before handling/operating any firearm, read the operator guide until you understand everything in it.
To check a firearm, point it in a safe direction with your finger off the trigger, open the action, and inspect chamber.
Not knowing whether a handgun is loaded is NOT a valid excuse for a negligent discharge.
Never give or knowingly accept a loaded handgun from someone.
Always use the proper ammunition caliber in your handgun. If you don't know, find out.
Never trust a safety. They are mechanical devices that can fail. Your brain is the best safety.
Handguns do NOT "just go off" despite what they say in the newspapers. The trigger must be pulled. No exceptions.
Firearms are inanimate objects that can NEVER harm anything all by itself. The problem is with criminals and idiots.
If you are handling a firearm without a basic understanding of gun safety, you are an idiot.
Never take gun safety advice from someone who "just" owns a firearm. Verify their knowledge.
Do not operate a handgun that is not safe to operate - filthy, bent, broken parts, rusted, pitted, or etc.
Do not operate a handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Before practicing at a range, find out the range rules and understand basic range commands.
Always wear hearing protection and safety glasses when shooting a firearm.
Know basic ammunition malfunctions (e.g. misfire, hangfire, and squib loads) and how to handle them safely.
Hearing protection should have a noise reduction ration (NRR) of 22 or higher to protect your hearing.
Do not use +P or +P+ ammo in your handgun unless your manual says that you can.
Firearm safety is not rocket science. Learn it from a credible source and practice it everytime you handle a gun.
Pointing a handgun downwards towards the floor/ground is NOT always a safe direction. Use your brain.
Don't be a Plaxico. Always use a holster to carry your handgun. They make them also for purses and pockets.
Never discharge a firearm in the air. That bullet has to come down somewhere and could kill someone.
Never take a warning shot. You are responsible for that bullet wherever it ends. Shoot a target or don't shoot.
Only use JHP ammunition for personal protection. You are less likely to over-penetrate and hit an unintended target.
If you got your CPL/CCW on a "hookup," you risk hurting yourself or an innocent, going to prison, and/or being sued.
You should never take gun safety advice from a politician or law enforcement officer grandstanding in the media.
Each one the aforementioned tidbits could be expanded into an entire article/blog post on its own. Do some research, consult with credible advisors, and strongly consider taking a firearms safety with a credible firearms trainer.
For austerity, I am assembling that info here for you to read and apply, where necessary, to make you a safer user of firearms.
If you don't know the 3 Fundamentals of Gun Safety - by the number - don't handle a firearm until you do.
Rule 0 - Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded at all times.
Rule 1 - Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction.
Rule 2 - Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
Rule 3 - Always keep firearms "not in use" unloaded and locked away from unauthorized users.
Rule 4 - Always be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Do not attempt to clean your firearm until you have verified that it is unloaded.
Pulling the trigger is NOT how you safely determine whether your firearm is loaded.
Before handling/operating any firearm, read the operator guide until you understand everything in it.
To check a firearm, point it in a safe direction with your finger off the trigger, open the action, and inspect chamber.
Not knowing whether a handgun is loaded is NOT a valid excuse for a negligent discharge.
Never give or knowingly accept a loaded handgun from someone.
Always use the proper ammunition caliber in your handgun. If you don't know, find out.
Never trust a safety. They are mechanical devices that can fail. Your brain is the best safety.
Handguns do NOT "just go off" despite what they say in the newspapers. The trigger must be pulled. No exceptions.
Firearms are inanimate objects that can NEVER harm anything all by itself. The problem is with criminals and idiots.
If you are handling a firearm without a basic understanding of gun safety, you are an idiot.
Never take gun safety advice from someone who "just" owns a firearm. Verify their knowledge.
Do not operate a handgun that is not safe to operate - filthy, bent, broken parts, rusted, pitted, or etc.
Do not operate a handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Before practicing at a range, find out the range rules and understand basic range commands.
Always wear hearing protection and safety glasses when shooting a firearm.
Know basic ammunition malfunctions (e.g. misfire, hangfire, and squib loads) and how to handle them safely.
Hearing protection should have a noise reduction ration (NRR) of 22 or higher to protect your hearing.
Do not use +P or +P+ ammo in your handgun unless your manual says that you can.
Firearm safety is not rocket science. Learn it from a credible source and practice it everytime you handle a gun.
Pointing a handgun downwards towards the floor/ground is NOT always a safe direction. Use your brain.
Don't be a Plaxico. Always use a holster to carry your handgun. They make them also for purses and pockets.
Never discharge a firearm in the air. That bullet has to come down somewhere and could kill someone.
Never take a warning shot. You are responsible for that bullet wherever it ends. Shoot a target or don't shoot.
Only use JHP ammunition for personal protection. You are less likely to over-penetrate and hit an unintended target.
If you got your CPL/CCW on a "hookup," you risk hurting yourself or an innocent, going to prison, and/or being sued.
You should never take gun safety advice from a politician or law enforcement officer grandstanding in the media.
Each one the aforementioned tidbits could be expanded into an entire article/blog post on its own. Do some research, consult with credible advisors, and strongly consider taking a firearms safety with a credible firearms trainer.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Seven Questions Michigan County Gun Boards Like To Ask CPL Applicants
For many state of Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL) applicants, the submission of the application package (i.e. official application, proof of gun safety training, fingerprint scans, and etc.) will be the last contact applicants will have with their respective County Gun Board until they are notified of an approval or a rejection.
However, residents in a handful of Michigan counties will have the additional hurdle of making an appearance before the County Gun Board to answer a few questions about their submission.
With the adoption of PA 381 of 2000, CPL licensing was standardized across the state. Accordingly, much of the previously held discretionary authority County Gun Boards have has been drastically minimized. In fact, many County Gun Boards do not require an appearance at all due to the fact that an applicant's eligibility can be readily determined via a criminal background check and a query of public records.
This article will specify questions which may be asked during an pre-licensure appearance before a Michigan County Gun Board.
Question 1: Why Do You Want A CPL?
The correct answer to this question is "Personal Protection." It is a truthful response to the question that is self-explanatory. Nothing else needs to be said. Any other response given by the CPL applicant to this question during a Gun Board appearance opens the door for further discussion and scrutiny of your motives.
Question 2: Do You Have Any Problems With Anybody?
If you have not had any documented incidents with another person, the answer to this question is "No." A documented incident would include, but is not limited to, a 9-1-1 call and a Personal Protection Order. No one knows with any level of certainty if a particular "issue" or an incident with another person is serious enough to merit discussion at a Gun Board appearance. Moreover, if the circumstances was truly serious there would be some official documentation on file with the authorities.
Question 3: Have You Ever Been Arrested For A Felony?
This question is obviously an interesting one to be asked during a Gun Board appearance because they are already informed as to the contents of your background. A felony conviction that has not been set-aside will disqualify an applicant for licensure. Every CPL applicant undergoes a rigorous criminal history check by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Answer the question truthfully. Be mindful that an arrest is not the same thing as a conviction. A mere arrest does not disqualify an applicant for a CPL.
Question 4: Have You Ever Been Arrested For Anything Else?
As mentioned before, a mere arrest is not grounds for a CPL rejection. Any arrest info in your background will show up during your criminal history check. Honestly answer the question - yes or no - and await their next question. Do not volunteer to share any info about your past that will serve to unnecessarily extend the time needed for your appearance before the Gun Board. The purpose of your appearance is not a popularity contest. You need only demonstrate that you meet CPL licensing requirements.
Question 5: Have You Ever Had A Mental Illness?
Unless you have ever been officially diagnosed with "clinical depression" or another specified mental illness by a qualified mental health professional, the answer to the question is "No." Evidence of a mental illness condition is grounds for a CPL rejection. Please be mindful that there is a huge difference between "depression" and "clinical depression" and only qualified health pros can make that determination. Thus, a self-diagnosis of yourself as being "depressed" does not have any legal standing with regards to your qualification for a CPL.
Question 6: Is There A Current Protection Order Against You?
Under federal law, the Lautenberg Amendment to the 1968 Gun Control Act, persons with an active Personal Protection Order (PPO) against them are forbidden from possessing a firearm. Thus, if you have an active PPO against you, your CPL application will be rejected. Curiously enough, the Gun Board should be aware of your status. Truthfully answer the question.
Question 7: Have You Ever Taken Out A PPO Against Someone?
If you are asked this question, the County Gun Board is attempting to get you to reveal info about your lifestyle which may open up a line of questioning about your motives. Obviously, PPOs are recorded publicly; if you have ever taken a PPO out against another person, it is safe to assume that they know about it. Answer the question honestly, directly, and tersely. Unless asked, there is no need to deliver a speech as to your specific circumstances.
Bottom Line:
Gun Board appearances as a part of the CPL licensing process is largely a symbolic gesture, as an applicant's qualifications can be readily determined from a criminal background check and a check of public records. If you have been notified of a pending pre-licensure appearance before a County Gun Board, you probably have been approved.
However, do not take your appearance lightly. Gun Boards still have the ability to not bestow CPLs to persons who may present a danger to themselves and other people. Thus, you should keep your responses short and on topic to any questions presented. If you successfully manage to not open up any unnecessary areas of your background and motives, your chances of having your application approved are enhanced.
Disclaimer
You are strongly encouraged to not only conduct your own independent research but to also consult with a competent and qualified attorney before acting upon any information in this article. Laws covering self-defense, lethal force, firearms, and the Michigan Concealed Pistol License and their enforcement are always subject to change due to laws being amended, politics conducted in the Prosecutor's Office, and election results at all levels of government. Ignorance of the law, legally speaking, is not a valid excuse for running afoul of it. The penalties and fines imposed upon violators of firearms related offenses are stiff and severe.
About The Author
Rick Ector is a National Rifle Association credentialed Firearms Trainer, who provides Michigan CCW Class training in Detroit for students at his firearms school - Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit.
Ector is a recognized expert in firearm safety and has been featured extensively in the national and local media: Associated Press, UPI, NRAnews, Guns Digest, Tactical-Life, The Truth About Guns, The Politics Daily, Fox News Detroit, The Detroit News, The Detroit Examiner, WJLB, WGPR, and the UrbanShooterPodcast.
For more info about free shooting lessons for women and Michigan CCW Classes, please contact:
Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit
Web: http://www.detroitccw.com.
Email: info@detroitccw.com
Phone: 313.733.7404
However, residents in a handful of Michigan counties will have the additional hurdle of making an appearance before the County Gun Board to answer a few questions about their submission.
With the adoption of PA 381 of 2000, CPL licensing was standardized across the state. Accordingly, much of the previously held discretionary authority County Gun Boards have has been drastically minimized. In fact, many County Gun Boards do not require an appearance at all due to the fact that an applicant's eligibility can be readily determined via a criminal background check and a query of public records.
This article will specify questions which may be asked during an pre-licensure appearance before a Michigan County Gun Board.
Question 1: Why Do You Want A CPL?
The correct answer to this question is "Personal Protection." It is a truthful response to the question that is self-explanatory. Nothing else needs to be said. Any other response given by the CPL applicant to this question during a Gun Board appearance opens the door for further discussion and scrutiny of your motives.
Question 2: Do You Have Any Problems With Anybody?
If you have not had any documented incidents with another person, the answer to this question is "No." A documented incident would include, but is not limited to, a 9-1-1 call and a Personal Protection Order. No one knows with any level of certainty if a particular "issue" or an incident with another person is serious enough to merit discussion at a Gun Board appearance. Moreover, if the circumstances was truly serious there would be some official documentation on file with the authorities.
Question 3: Have You Ever Been Arrested For A Felony?
This question is obviously an interesting one to be asked during a Gun Board appearance because they are already informed as to the contents of your background. A felony conviction that has not been set-aside will disqualify an applicant for licensure. Every CPL applicant undergoes a rigorous criminal history check by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Answer the question truthfully. Be mindful that an arrest is not the same thing as a conviction. A mere arrest does not disqualify an applicant for a CPL.
Question 4: Have You Ever Been Arrested For Anything Else?
As mentioned before, a mere arrest is not grounds for a CPL rejection. Any arrest info in your background will show up during your criminal history check. Honestly answer the question - yes or no - and await their next question. Do not volunteer to share any info about your past that will serve to unnecessarily extend the time needed for your appearance before the Gun Board. The purpose of your appearance is not a popularity contest. You need only demonstrate that you meet CPL licensing requirements.
Question 5: Have You Ever Had A Mental Illness?
Unless you have ever been officially diagnosed with "clinical depression" or another specified mental illness by a qualified mental health professional, the answer to the question is "No." Evidence of a mental illness condition is grounds for a CPL rejection. Please be mindful that there is a huge difference between "depression" and "clinical depression" and only qualified health pros can make that determination. Thus, a self-diagnosis of yourself as being "depressed" does not have any legal standing with regards to your qualification for a CPL.
Question 6: Is There A Current Protection Order Against You?
Under federal law, the Lautenberg Amendment to the 1968 Gun Control Act, persons with an active Personal Protection Order (PPO) against them are forbidden from possessing a firearm. Thus, if you have an active PPO against you, your CPL application will be rejected. Curiously enough, the Gun Board should be aware of your status. Truthfully answer the question.
Question 7: Have You Ever Taken Out A PPO Against Someone?
If you are asked this question, the County Gun Board is attempting to get you to reveal info about your lifestyle which may open up a line of questioning about your motives. Obviously, PPOs are recorded publicly; if you have ever taken a PPO out against another person, it is safe to assume that they know about it. Answer the question honestly, directly, and tersely. Unless asked, there is no need to deliver a speech as to your specific circumstances.
Bottom Line:
Gun Board appearances as a part of the CPL licensing process is largely a symbolic gesture, as an applicant's qualifications can be readily determined from a criminal background check and a check of public records. If you have been notified of a pending pre-licensure appearance before a County Gun Board, you probably have been approved.
However, do not take your appearance lightly. Gun Boards still have the ability to not bestow CPLs to persons who may present a danger to themselves and other people. Thus, you should keep your responses short and on topic to any questions presented. If you successfully manage to not open up any unnecessary areas of your background and motives, your chances of having your application approved are enhanced.
Disclaimer
You are strongly encouraged to not only conduct your own independent research but to also consult with a competent and qualified attorney before acting upon any information in this article. Laws covering self-defense, lethal force, firearms, and the Michigan Concealed Pistol License and their enforcement are always subject to change due to laws being amended, politics conducted in the Prosecutor's Office, and election results at all levels of government. Ignorance of the law, legally speaking, is not a valid excuse for running afoul of it. The penalties and fines imposed upon violators of firearms related offenses are stiff and severe.
About The Author
Rick Ector is a National Rifle Association credentialed Firearms Trainer, who provides Michigan CCW Class training in Detroit for students at his firearms school - Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit. Ector is a recognized expert in firearm safety and has been featured extensively in the national and local media: Associated Press, UPI, NRAnews, Guns Digest, Tactical-Life, The Truth About Guns, The Politics Daily, Fox News Detroit, The Detroit News, The Detroit Examiner, WJLB, WGPR, and the UrbanShooterPodcast.
For more info about free shooting lessons for women and Michigan CCW Classes, please contact:
Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit
Web: http://www.detroitccw.com.
Email: info@detroitccw.com
Phone: 313.733.7404
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Should Michigan County Gun Boards Be Disbanded As Unnecessary Relics Of Our State's Racist Past?
On April 28th, the Detroit Free Press ran a story in which a 39 year-old Brownstown Township man has accused the Wayne County Clerk's office of wrong-doing with regards to its processing of Michigan Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs). Michigan Concealed Pistol Licenses are permits which allow the named person to carry a concealed and loaded handgun on his person and in his vehicle. Although CPLs are state-issued licenses, they are issued by the County Gun Board of the applicant's county of residence.
Amongst the allegations levied in Mr. David Springsteen's lawsuit against Wayne County are claims that some staff members charged interested CPL applicants an expediting fee to speed up processing.
In Wayne County, it is not unusual for CPL applications to take as long as five months to be processed. In contrast, many of my CPL students from neighboring Oakland County have told me that they received their CPLs in the postal mail as soon as two weeks after submission.
Although the corruption charges alleged in Springsteen's suit are still under investigation and are - at this date - still unproven, they cast an ugly shadow on the Wayne County Clerk's Office.
The possibility of public corruption within the CPL issuance process in Wayne County should force us to revisit the sordid history of Michigan County Gun Boards and ask ourselves if County Gun Boards should continue to exist.
Ultimately, we may come to the conclusion that County Gun Boards are an unnecessary and ugly relic of our state's racist past. Accordingly, we may also find that it makes more sense for the state government to take over the role of CPL issuance, in the same manner that it uniformly controls the issuance of state Driver's Licenses.
The Genesis of Michigan County Gun Boards
In 1927, the state of Michigan adopted the Michigan Firearms Act (1927 PA 372) which amongst other things required that all handguns be "safety inspected" (i.e. registered) and created a local Gun Board in each of Michigan's 83 counties.
The law was passed at the behest of the Klan, which was very active in Detroit at the time, as a direct result of "not guilty" verdicts reached in 1925 during two highly publicized trials. The two trials centered around an incident in which a black physician, Dr. Ossian Sweet, who had recently moved into a non-integrated Detroit neighborhood.
Racism Spawned The Michigan Firearms Act of 1927
On the night of September 8th, 1925 a large mob of Klan members and sympathizers gathered in a school-yard, directly across the street, in front of the Sweet residence, while police officers patrolled the blocked-off street. A short time thereafter, protesters began hurling rocks into the home.
The scene rapidly deteriorated, as evidenced by the eventual eruption of gunfire exchanged by both the mob and the inhabitants of the house. By the time the dust had settled, two members of the mob were shot - one of which died. At this time the police officers, who had just stood idly during the gunfight, stormed the house and arrested everyone inside for the charge of murder.
Ultimately, the first trial ended as a mistrial; no guilty verdicts were reached. Additionally, the second trial actually produced a verdict - "not guilty." Obviously, the Klan was incensed at the outcome - black citizens being allowed to use lethal force against racists - and lobbied the Michigan Legislature to pass 1927 PA 372.
Michigan Gun Control Has Racist Roots
The County Gun Boards, via their newly defined powers and duties, were then utilized to deny and discourage black Michigan residents of their right to purchase and own firearms and to also inhibit their ability to acquire Concealed Pistol Licenses. CPLs at that time were issued under "discretionary" policies, whose licensing requirements significantly varied from county to county.
In actual practice, counties where large numbers of black residents lived, such as Wayne County, had very stringent licensing requirements. Thus, PA 372 was used as an effective form of gun control with the explicit purpose of lawfully disarming black residents.
Michigan Enacts "Shall Issue" Licensing
PA 381 of 2000 revamped Michigan state law with respect to the licensing of CPLs. In essence, it standardized the licensing requirements on a state-wide basis, forbade lower levels of governments from establishing its own set of requirements, and removed much of the "discretionary" authority County Gun Boards had with respect to determining who would be licensed.
As long as a Michigan resident could meet uniform criteria, the law was modified to affirm that CPL applicants "shall be" issued a license. The criteria for licensure was stiffened, however it applied to everyone, regardless of which Michigan county in which the applicant resided. Thus, the legal paradigm shift in law would - in theory - remove the racial component which had existed under prior law.
As a direct consequence of the uniform criteria, many Michigan County Gun Boards currently elect to routinely issue CPLs via mail, once it has been determined that applicants have met the state-wide uniform requirements.
For example, the Wayne County Gun Board which processes CPLs in the state's most populous county does not require an appearance before it prior to applicant licensure. In contrast, some counties - such as Macomb County - still require them.
Did "Shall Issue" Eradicate The Need For County Gun Boards?
Despite the adoption of "Shall Issue," Wayne County still lags significantly behind most other counties with regards to the time that it takes to process CPLs. Many applicants in Wayne County find out the status of their CPL applications when they are pulled over by law enforcement officers on routine traffic stops.
Accordingly, a case can be made that there is a large disparity in service levels, with respect to processing time, for Wayne County applicants relative to other counties. This is the case even when other counties still require an in-person appearance of the applicant before licensure, as is the case in Macomb County.
Service processing of CPLs in Wayne County is so slow that many Wayne County residents "temporarily" change their addresses to another county while applying. Once the CPL is approved the applicants then change their addresses back to Wayne County. Of course, this tactic is illegal but it doesn't stop folks from doing it.
The obvious conclusion is that - at least - in Wayne County, which has a racist gun control past, provides poor service to its constituents which to a large extent is African American. Gun control was created to discourage black folks from getting CPLs. Under our current system, which has undue delays compared to other counties, is succeeding in that goal - suppression of CPLs in Wayne County.
Since the County Gun Boards were created to administer separate standards of CPL issuance under "Discretionary Licensing," there is no need for them under our current system of "Shall Issue." In fact, CPL issuance done at the state level would improve processing times in Wayne County.
The only parties who would complain about moving this function from the counties to the state would be the actual counties where a large number people apply for CPLs every year. CPL application fees - currently set at $105 - is a cash cow, especially when you consider that the state of Indiana only charges $70 for its concealed handgun licenses which is good for a lifetime. Michigan CPLs must be renewed every four years.
Michigan county gun boards are nothing more than an ancient relic of an ugly time in our history. Under its current implementation, folks in Wayne County are getting substandard service. Even worse, there are allegations that the process has been compromised by corruption of county employees. The time has come to move this function to the state level.
What do you think?
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - Sunday, December 27th, 2009
We are pleased to announce another CCW/CPL Class of this year! So, if you have a desire to qualify for a Concealed Pistol License, so that you can feel safe, register for our next class.
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn (Map to Hotel)
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition in Advance ($150) and Save $20! (Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85)/Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: http://www.detroitccw.com
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn (Map to Hotel)
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition in Advance ($150) and Save $20! (Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85)/Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: http://www.detroitccw.com
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
CCW Class Gift Certificates On Sale Now!
Give the gift of personal protection for your loved ones!
Each certificate entitles a person of your choosing to be enrolled in one of our firearm safety classes with the class tuition paid in full.
Our training class satisfies the state of Michigan's educational and shooting requirements for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Our gift certificates are a great gift for a variety of occasions:
The gift certificates are redeemable for any CPL Class that we conduct within 18 months from the date of purchase.
$150
Each certificate entitles a person of your choosing to be enrolled in one of our firearm safety classes with the class tuition paid in full.
Our training class satisfies the state of Michigan's educational and shooting requirements for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Our gift certificates are a great gift for a variety of occasions:
- Birthdays
- Christmas
- Mothers Day
- Fathers Day
- Graduations
- Anniversaries
- House-Warmings
The gift certificates are redeemable for any CPL Class that we conduct within 18 months from the date of purchase.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Does A Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Conviction Justify A Gun Ban?
A few days ago, I informed a prospective CCW Class student that he was ineligible for a state of Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL). He was surprised at my disclosure because the issue at hand was a misdemeanor domestic violence (DV) conviction on his record.
It didn't make sense to him that a misdemeanor offense would have such a drastic consequence on his future ability to own a firearm. In response, I told him about the Lautenberg Amendment to the 1968 Gun Control Act and urged him to research it. Apparently, there are a lot of uninformed or unscrupulous firearms trainers neglecting to mention this provision of federal law to their prospective students.
The Lautenberg Amendment
Effective September 30, 1996, the federal Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) was amended to make it a federal offense for a person with a misdemeanor domestic violence (DV) conviction to possess, ship, transport, or receive either a firearm or ammunition for a firearm. Furthermore, it is also a federal offense to knowingly provide access to a firearm or ammunition to a person with a misdemeanor DV conviction.
The Lautenberg Amendment in some circles is viewed as controversial. For example, in many cases persons who were convicted of a misdemeanor DV charge prior to the law's enactment were not "grandfathered in" the law. Thus, some police officers and active duty soldiers were forced to resign their current positions because of an old DV conviction, which at the time of disposition did not have dire consequences with respect to firearms possession. Such persons have come to be known as having been "Lautenberged."
Perhaps, the most unfair aspect of the provisions of the Lautenberg Amendment is that people who plead guilty to a misdemeanor DV charge are not being made fully aware of the consequences - a potential lifetime ban on firearms possession and federal prosecution. A person who violates the provisions of the Lautenberg Amendment faces a hefty maximum fine of $250,000 and a term of imprisonment not to exceed 10 years.
Are All Domestic Violence Convictions Equal?
First and foremost, I want to state that I do not condone domestic violence in any form. In my personal opinion, it is a scourge in our society that should be eradicated. In fact, during my CCW Class when we cover "Defense of Third Persons," we inform and admonish students to be careful if they choose to intervene in a domestic disturbance because the rescued "victim" might see their actions unfavorably.
It is not uncommon for victims of DV to not want any serious repercussions to happen to their assailant, regardless of the injuries they have suffered. Many times, these battered victims don't want to see their violent loved ones go to jail and will refuse to cooperate with authorities. They would rather see a light penalty imposed: Anger Management classes, counseling, or a small fine.
Thusly, a person with a CPL who is carrying a firearm should think "hard and long" before getting involved in a domestic issue because if a violent confrontation occurs, the victim's feelings about the rescuer may not play favorably when recounted for attending police officers.
Persons who feel the need to physically abuse their loved ones, in my opinion, are sick and are in need of an intervention. No one has the right to abuse and to inflict physical suffering upon another regardless of whether it is a domestic situation or not. It is unacceptable.
In contrast, many people are pleading to a DV charge to quickly get past an unfortunate incident that does not rise up to the level typically thought of a domestic violence offense. For example, the prospective student I wrote about earlier told me the back story on his conviction.
He told me that on one eventful night, he and his wife got into a heated argument about household finances. By his own admission, he related that their argument was the worse they had ever experienced, however, at no time did he put his hands on his wife. His wife, whether she actually felt threatened or just wanted to be vindictive, called the police. When the police arrived, the husband was arrested - standard protocol in many jurisdictions.
Sometime thereafter, the husband was released but was contacted by the attending Prosecutors. They offered him an opportunity to plead guilty to "just a misdemeanor" charge of domestic violence and to take one Anger Management class. They told him that this solution would lead to a speedy resolution and would not involve the high expense of an attorney. Accordingly, he jumped at the opportunity to "get on" with his life, without being told of the consequences of the Lautenberg Amendment of the GCA.
Thus, this man is no longer able to legally own or possess a firearm because he and his spouse had a heated argument one night. Fortunately, in this case, it appears that he may have grounds for an expungement in a couple of years. However, in many other circumstances such as this, a "set-aside" is not an option; their misdemeanor DV conviction triggers a life-time ban on firearms possession.
Domestic Violence Is Not Just About Wife-Beaters
Often times when the average person hears the phrase "domestic violence" images rapidly form in his mind about a man in a white tank-top battering his spouse. However, a DV charge can arise in a parenting situation. For example, in 1997 a Novi, Michigan mother was convicted of DV for slapping her 14 year-old daughter.
In this case, the "victim" testified that her mother should not have been prosecuted because the slap was deserved after a couple of years of the daughter engaging in unruly behavior which included the following: stealing, under-age drinking, smoking, sneaking out of the house, and vulgar obscenities. The incident that served as the "last straw" was the teen leaving the home without permission to spend an entire weekend with her boyfriend.
In the end, the mother was convicted of DV and was given probation. Although the immediate penalty imposed was not severe, the Lautenberg Amendment guarantees that the mother will not be able to own and possess a firearm for her life-time.
Bottom Line:
Domestic violence in it purest form is despicable crime. However, there are circumstances and mitigating factors that in my opinion suggest that all DV convictions are not equal.
For example, over zealous prosecutors interjecting themselves needlessly into a parenting issue that many would agree required action from the parent and persons copping a plea of DV to make a one-time heated argument disappear are two instances where a life-time gun ban are unacceptable.
The general public needs to be aware of the consequences of a domestic violence conviction, for the biggest penalty - a gun ban - is not disclosed to persons found guilty of the offense. Certainly, abusers need to be held to account for their transgressions, however, everyone with a DV conviction should not be forever barred from owning a firearm.
What do you think?
It didn't make sense to him that a misdemeanor offense would have such a drastic consequence on his future ability to own a firearm. In response, I told him about the Lautenberg Amendment to the 1968 Gun Control Act and urged him to research it. Apparently, there are a lot of uninformed or unscrupulous firearms trainers neglecting to mention this provision of federal law to their prospective students.
The Lautenberg Amendment
Effective September 30, 1996, the federal Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) was amended to make it a federal offense for a person with a misdemeanor domestic violence (DV) conviction to possess, ship, transport, or receive either a firearm or ammunition for a firearm. Furthermore, it is also a federal offense to knowingly provide access to a firearm or ammunition to a person with a misdemeanor DV conviction.
The Lautenberg Amendment in some circles is viewed as controversial. For example, in many cases persons who were convicted of a misdemeanor DV charge prior to the law's enactment were not "grandfathered in" the law. Thus, some police officers and active duty soldiers were forced to resign their current positions because of an old DV conviction, which at the time of disposition did not have dire consequences with respect to firearms possession. Such persons have come to be known as having been "Lautenberged."
Perhaps, the most unfair aspect of the provisions of the Lautenberg Amendment is that people who plead guilty to a misdemeanor DV charge are not being made fully aware of the consequences - a potential lifetime ban on firearms possession and federal prosecution. A person who violates the provisions of the Lautenberg Amendment faces a hefty maximum fine of $250,000 and a term of imprisonment not to exceed 10 years.
Are All Domestic Violence Convictions Equal?
First and foremost, I want to state that I do not condone domestic violence in any form. In my personal opinion, it is a scourge in our society that should be eradicated. In fact, during my CCW Class when we cover "Defense of Third Persons," we inform and admonish students to be careful if they choose to intervene in a domestic disturbance because the rescued "victim" might see their actions unfavorably.
It is not uncommon for victims of DV to not want any serious repercussions to happen to their assailant, regardless of the injuries they have suffered. Many times, these battered victims don't want to see their violent loved ones go to jail and will refuse to cooperate with authorities. They would rather see a light penalty imposed: Anger Management classes, counseling, or a small fine.
Thusly, a person with a CPL who is carrying a firearm should think "hard and long" before getting involved in a domestic issue because if a violent confrontation occurs, the victim's feelings about the rescuer may not play favorably when recounted for attending police officers.
Persons who feel the need to physically abuse their loved ones, in my opinion, are sick and are in need of an intervention. No one has the right to abuse and to inflict physical suffering upon another regardless of whether it is a domestic situation or not. It is unacceptable.
In contrast, many people are pleading to a DV charge to quickly get past an unfortunate incident that does not rise up to the level typically thought of a domestic violence offense. For example, the prospective student I wrote about earlier told me the back story on his conviction.
He told me that on one eventful night, he and his wife got into a heated argument about household finances. By his own admission, he related that their argument was the worse they had ever experienced, however, at no time did he put his hands on his wife. His wife, whether she actually felt threatened or just wanted to be vindictive, called the police. When the police arrived, the husband was arrested - standard protocol in many jurisdictions.
Sometime thereafter, the husband was released but was contacted by the attending Prosecutors. They offered him an opportunity to plead guilty to "just a misdemeanor" charge of domestic violence and to take one Anger Management class. They told him that this solution would lead to a speedy resolution and would not involve the high expense of an attorney. Accordingly, he jumped at the opportunity to "get on" with his life, without being told of the consequences of the Lautenberg Amendment of the GCA.
Thus, this man is no longer able to legally own or possess a firearm because he and his spouse had a heated argument one night. Fortunately, in this case, it appears that he may have grounds for an expungement in a couple of years. However, in many other circumstances such as this, a "set-aside" is not an option; their misdemeanor DV conviction triggers a life-time ban on firearms possession.
Domestic Violence Is Not Just About Wife-Beaters
Often times when the average person hears the phrase "domestic violence" images rapidly form in his mind about a man in a white tank-top battering his spouse. However, a DV charge can arise in a parenting situation. For example, in 1997 a Novi, Michigan mother was convicted of DV for slapping her 14 year-old daughter.
In this case, the "victim" testified that her mother should not have been prosecuted because the slap was deserved after a couple of years of the daughter engaging in unruly behavior which included the following: stealing, under-age drinking, smoking, sneaking out of the house, and vulgar obscenities. The incident that served as the "last straw" was the teen leaving the home without permission to spend an entire weekend with her boyfriend.
In the end, the mother was convicted of DV and was given probation. Although the immediate penalty imposed was not severe, the Lautenberg Amendment guarantees that the mother will not be able to own and possess a firearm for her life-time.
Bottom Line:
Domestic violence in it purest form is despicable crime. However, there are circumstances and mitigating factors that in my opinion suggest that all DV convictions are not equal.
For example, over zealous prosecutors interjecting themselves needlessly into a parenting issue that many would agree required action from the parent and persons copping a plea of DV to make a one-time heated argument disappear are two instances where a life-time gun ban are unacceptable.
The general public needs to be aware of the consequences of a domestic violence conviction, for the biggest penalty - a gun ban - is not disclosed to persons found guilty of the offense. Certainly, abusers need to be held to account for their transgressions, however, everyone with a DV conviction should not be forever barred from owning a firearm.
What do you think?
Thursday, December 3, 2009
[Video] Detroit CCW Class - Violent Encounter Responses
Chief Firearms Trainer Rick Ector discusses five responses to a violent encounter: Fight, Flight, Posture, Freeze, and Submit.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
[Video] Detroit CPL Class: Read Handgun Manual
Chief Instructor Rick Ector gives a couple of reasons why you should completely read your handgun's Operators Guide before using your firearm.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
[Video] Michigan CPL Classes: Cease Fire Command
Chief Firearms Instructor Rick Ector discusses the 'Cease Fire' command.
[Video] Michigan CCW Class: Developing A Sight Picture
Chief Firearms Instructor Rick Ector discusses how to develop a sight picture.
[Video] Detroit CCW Class: Misfires and Hangfires
Chief Firearms Instructor Rick Ector discusses misfires and hangfires:
[Video] Defensive Accuracy versus Marksmanship
Chief Firearms Instructor Rick Ector describes the difference between defensive accuracy and marksmanship.
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - Saturday, December 12th, 2009
We are pleased to announce another CCW/CPL Class of this year! So, if you have a desire to qualify for a Concealed Pistol License, so that you can feel safe, register for our next class.
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn (Map to Hotel)
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition in Advance ($150) and Save $20! (Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85)/Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: http://www.detroitccw.com
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
Location:
Southfield Hampton Inn (Map to Hotel)
27500 Northwestern Hwy.
Southfield, Michigan 48034
Option I
Pay Tuition in Advance ($150) and Save $20! (Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses)
Option II
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85)/Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses)
Register at our site: http://www.detroitccw.com
Range expenses will be incurred at the range to handle gun rental, range time, ammunition costs, and a fee for a target. The estimated fee is $35.
Our class starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp!
Detroit Michigan CCW CPL Class - 99 - December 28, 2008
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I do most of my blogging and article writing in coffee shops because there are too many distractions at home.
