Owning a concealed carry permit (CCW) in Colorado gives you the right to carry — but not immunity from arrest or prosecution. Even responsible gun owners can find themselves in handcuffs for making simple, avoidable mistakes.
Below are three common errors that have led to real arrests and criminal charges across Colorado. Each one can destroy your reputation, cost you your permit, and leave you facing thousands in legal fees.
Mistake #1 – Handling or Carrying While Under the Influence
Colorado law is crystal clear: if you’re too impaired to drive, you’re too impaired to carry a gun.
Under CRS 18-12-106, it’s illegal to possess or handle a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
Even if your firearm stays holstered, being intoxicated while armed can still lead to arrest, permit suspension, and felony charges.
A recent Greeley bar shooting case shows how alcohol, anger, and poor judgment can destroy lives. The suspect reportedly became intoxicated, felt “disrespected,” left to retrieve a rifle, and returned to fire 28 rounds in and around a bar — injuring bystanders and earning a 1,016-year prison sentence.
👉 Lesson: If you plan to drink, leave your firearm secured and locked away.
A single bad decision under the influence can erase years of training and cost you your freedom.
Mistake #2 – Brandishing or “Demonstrating” Your Firearm Without Justification
Many CCW holders misunderstand what counts as a defensive display versus menacing.
Pulling back your jacket, unholstering your gun, or even placing your hand on the grip during an argument can be seen as threatening under Colorado law.
In my De-Escalation for CCW Holders article, I teach the “6 Ds”: Detect, Disengage, Demonstrate, Deter, Defend, Dial 911.
The “Demonstrate” stage only applies when you are in imminent fear of death or serious bodily harm — not because someone disrespected you, cut you off, or raised their voice.
👉 Lesson: Keep your ego out of it.
If you’re not legally justified to fire, you’re not legally justified to draw.
Mistake #3 – Getting Involved in Fights or Ego-Driven Altercations
Nothing ruins a self-defense claim faster than provocation.
If you start the confrontation, the law will not protect you — even if the other person escalates.
The Gavin Dasaur incident is another example of how anger, alcohol, and ego can lead to tragedy.
Colorado’s self-defense laws (CRS 18-1-704 and 18-1-705) protect those acting reasonably — not those seeking revenge or “to teach someone a lesson.”
👉 Lesson: Walk away.
Every argument you avoid is one you win.
⚖️ Criminal vs. Civil Consequences
| Type | Example | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Charges | Reckless endangerment, menacing, or unlawful carry | Jail time, probation, or firearm ban |
| Civil Lawsuit | The other party sues for damages | Legal defense costs, potential settlement |
| Administrative | CCW suspension or revocation | Loss of carry privileges, retraining required |
Even if you “win” in court, you still lose time, money, and peace of mind.
🧭 Know the Law, Train the Mindset
Colorado’s self-defense laws are designed to protect you when you act reasonably and proportionally.
Understanding those boundaries is what separates responsible gun owners from defendants.
For a deeper dive into use-of-force standards, read my breakdown:
👉 Colorado Self-Defense Laws Explained
💡 Call to Action
✅ Sign up for a Colorado Concealed Carry Class —
Train with real scenarios, legal updates, and qualification drills that prepare you for real-world encounters.
✅ Compare Self-Defense Insurance Options —
Protect yourself legally and financially before an incident happens.
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Always consult a qualified attorney or instructor before applying use-of-force principles or interpreting state law.
