LAID - Legally Armed In Detroit (Michigan CPL CCW Classes): April 2013

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

FAQ: Can Persons With A CPL Legally Carry A TASER?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Hey Rick, I've heard that tasers are now legal in Michigan and that someone can buy and carry one if they have a CPL. Is that true?

A: Yes, that is correct: Persons with a CPL can legally conceal carry a TASER.

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: 313.733.74

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Monday, April 29, 2013

FAQ: What Should I Do If I Find A Firearm In The Trash?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Rick, I work as an armed bank guard in the city. What should I do if I find a "throw-away gun" in the trash?

A: Just leaving it literally on the street is, in my opinion, would not be the right thing to do. Personally, if I found a firearm I would make it safe and report it as found property. Hopefully, it would make it back to its lawful owner. I wrote a blog post on this topic not too long ago: http://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com/2010/10/what-to-do-if-you-find-handgun.html

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

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Understand The Crime Triangle

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Understand The Crime Triangle

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Understanding The Crime Triangle - Three elements have to exist for a crime to occur: Desire, Ability, and Opportunity.

Desire is nothing more than a bad guy's willingness to engage in a criminal act. There is no way to look at a person to assess the thoughts that are running through his mind.

Ability represents the means by which a motivated criminal will use to conduct a criminal offense. It includes, but is not limited to, the following tools: time, patience, charm, proximity, speed, tools, and planning.

Of the three elements in the crime triangle, only one of them - Opportunity - is controllable by persons wishing to not be crime victims. It is possible to practice the art of avoidance by not putting yourself in either an environment or a set of circumstances in which an attack can happen.

Special care should be given to awareness, habits, strategies, defensive tools, and associations. By limiting your exposure to motivated criminals with your personal protection tools, you can increase your odds of not being attacked.

For more personal protection tips, visit our site - Legally Armed In Detroit - over the Internet: http://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com/

About The Author

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Don't Entertain Visitors At The Back Door

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Don't Entertain Visitors At The Back Door.

One way to increase your odds of staying safe is to not allow entry to your place of business via a back door. These portals to your venue are often adjacent to alleys, are poorly lit, and potential witnesses to any misdeeds are not present.

From a bad guy's perspective, it is easier to mount a surprise attack from a rear entrance whereby his arrival may not be noticed until it is too late.

In fact, just yesterday while I was in my barber's chair getting my weekly haircut, there was a sudden loud banging at the back door. My barber was acting as if he didn't hear it. So, I brought it to his attention and let me know in clear and in no uncertain terms that if the visitor had noble intentions, he would enter the shop through the front door where he could be seen and captured on the video cameras.

For more personal protection tips, visit our site - Legally Armed In Detroit - over the Internet: http://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com/

About The Author

Friday, April 26, 2013

Michigan Personal Protection Tip - A Half-Full Fuel Tank Is The New Empty

Michigan Personal Protection Tip - A Half-Full Fuel Tank Is The New Empty.

One way to enhance your personal safety is to never run out of gas on the road. Accordingly, you should give strong consideration to never allowing your fuel gauge to register less than half full.

Should you ever be followed by a would-be predator, you will have enough gas to get to make it to a safe destination, such as an open police station.

In addition, by conditioning yourself to always have a half tank of gas, you will not be a "victim of opportunity" by being stalled on the side of the road.

For more personal protection tips, visit our site - Legally Armed In Detroit - over the Internet: http://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com/

About The Author

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Michigan Personal Protection Tip: Purchase An AAA Road-Side Assistance Membership

Michigan Personal Protection Tip - An AAA Card Is A Great Investment In Your Safety.

Should you find yourself stranded on the road, your AAA Card may prove to be a life-saver. Many crimes being committed today are facilitated by opportunity.

With a membership, you would have access to a 24 hour hot-line in which the following services are available: emergency towing, ditch extrication, battery charging, tire replacement, and fuel delivery.

The most basic membership costs only $51 per year. At that price, it is a no-brainer. Join AAA of Michigan.

For more personal protection tips, visit our site - Legally Armed In Detroit - over the Internet: http://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com/

About The Author

FAQ: Do You Believe A Dog Will Prevent Robbers From Breaking Into Your Home?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Do you think that by having a dog that it will most likely ward off any possible robbers from breaking into your home?

A: No. The purpose of a dog is to let you know that someone with bad intentions is close to your home. A loud, inquisitive, and nosy dog can give you precious seconds needed to get ready to defend yourself.

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

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

FAQ: Is It Acceptable For A Disabled Person To Carry A Firearm For Personal Protection?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Is it acceptable, permissible, understandable, or cool if a person decided to obtain a weapon and wanted to exercise their rights to carry even if they are and/or have become disabled?

A: It is lawful, legal, just, moral, and "cool" for disabled law-abiding citizens to carry firearms for personal protection. It is interesting that you asked me this question today because I found a group on Facebook that advocates this very position: Disabled Americans for Firearm Rights. Look them up.

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

FAQ: Are CPL-Holders Required To Possess Their Pistol Registrations When Carrying Their Guns?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: As a Michigan CPL holder, am I still required that I carry my pistol registration (the old "green card") anytime I have my pistol in my possession?

A: For the first 30 days after registration of the handgun, keep the registration card on your person when carrying the handgun. Presumably, that gives "resource challenged" law enforcement agencies enough time to get your handgun into the LEIN system.

Of course, I am against this whole registration business but the law is the law - currently until we change it. Moreover, after the 30 day period you will no longer need to carry the registration certificate when carrying your registered handgun.

Oh yeah, you probably already know this BUT also have your CPL in your possession whenever you are conceal carrying your handgun.

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

FAQ: What Handgun Caliber Size Do You Suggest For New Women Shooters?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: What caliber do you think I should get for the wife or any female CPL holder? A .22, .380, 9mm, or whatever she can handle?

A: The goal for any user of a firearm - male or female - is not to exceed his/her ability to shoot it safely and accurately. However, at the same time the caliber must be big enough to be effective at "stopping" threats. My default caliber suggestion is 9mm. If the person is older or has a physical issue, then I would go lower with either a .380 or a 38SPL. Otherwise, the user should go for the largest controllable caliber, such as .40 or .45 - for both stopping power effectiveness and additional over-penetration protection.

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

FAQ: Is It Unlawful To Carry A Handgun In A School (K-12)?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Rick, is there a law in Michigan that states that a person cannot carry OPENLY in a school? I haven't found it, but from talking to people it seems like there is.

A: In general, Michigan schools are gun free zones unless you have an exemption. There is an exemption in the law that allows CPL-holders to carry handguns in a school (K-12) ONLY IF they open carry. Also, there was some head-way last session to outlaw OC in pistol-free zones via SB59. That effort was vetoed by the Governor. Moreover, Google "Michigan State Police Legal Update #86" for a concise summary of MI firearm laws with MCL citations.

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

FAQ: How Much Residency Is Needed Before A Person Can Apply For A Michigan Concealed Pistol License?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: A friend of mine just moved back to MI last month. How long do they have to wait before they can get CCW with the residency requirements?

A: Six months, however the residency requirement "may" be waived by the concealed pistol licensing board for new residents licensed by another state.

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

FAQ: Can A Business Owner Ban Open Carry On His Property?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Does a business have the authority to say No visible gun of any kind?

A: Yes. A private property owner's rights supercede your right to carry a firearm on his property.

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

FAQ: Is It Unlawful For Me To Conceal Carry My Firearm While In The Presence Of A Felon?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: I recently started carrying two firearms. When I drive I usually keep one on my hip and the other under my seat or on my lap. My brother often rides in the car with me (he is a convicted felon). My question is what will happen if I'm stopped by police with two guns in my vehicle and they realize my brother is a convicted felon? will I be in trouble for having him with me or having guns around him? Thanks in advance Rick

A: As you are aware, it is unlawful for a felon to be in possession of a firearm. It is also unlawful for a person to knowingly give a firearm to a felon. Thus, if you are armed and you are in the presence of a felon, you must exercise due caution that your brother does not have possession or access to your firearm. For example, if you exited your vehicle while leaving both your brother and a firearm behind, the two of you could be in legal trouble. So, be careful and use your best judgement.

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

FAQ: Is It Legal For My Friend To Carry A Handgun In My Vehicle If I Have A CPL?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: I have a CPL and I carry a weapon all of the time. My girl has a weapon of her own but doesn't have her CPL (yet). Just to be sure, is it ok for her to have her weapon in the vehicle loaded and accessible while I'm in the vehicle?

A: Technically, she would be guilty of carrying a concealed firearm in a vehicle. However, since you have a CPL, it would be legal for you to conceal carry (borrow) any handgun registered in Michigan. So, in this case you should be borrowing and carrying her handgun while the two of you are in the vehicle together.

I strongly suggest that your girlfriend enroll in a CPL Class and gets a license. If you were to exit the vehicle and leave her behind with her gun, she would be guilty of a felony (CCW).

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

FAQ: You have any recommendations for rifle and hand gun ranges in Ann Arbor/ Ypsilanti area?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: You have any recommendations for rifle and hand gun ranges in Ann Arbor/ Ypsilanti area?

A: I took my Instructor training in Ypsilanti several few years ago. The range we used was Mill Creek in Dexter, MI (8180 Main Street). It's not the biggest range in the world but their facility is adequate. Their number is 734.426.3445. Happy Shooting!

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

FAQ: Can You Carry A Handgun In A Bank Or A Credit Union?

Ask The Michigan Firearms Instructor

Q: Can You Carry A Handgun In A Bank Or A Credit Union?

A: Not going to delve into the line of demarcation between a bank and a credit union. For purposes of carrying a firearm on the premises, I'll discuss them both as the same.

MCL 750.234d(1) discusses pistol-free zones. It describes "depository financial institution or a subsidiary or affiliate of a depository financial institution" as being pistol-free, however, CPL-holders are exempt.

So, lets look at the Conceal Carry law - MCL 28.425o - which lists pistol-free zones for conceal carry but it does not include banks or credit unions. So, the answer is YES, you can legally carry a pistol into a bank, if you have a CPL.

However, the banks are private property. As such, they can post a sign barring guns and can ask you to leave.

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

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Tuesday, April 30, 2013

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Sunday, April 28, 2013

Friday, April 26, 2013

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

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