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Firearms Training, Legal & Law

Denver7 Interviews Concealed Carry Classes of Denver About Colorado’s New Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card

Mark Schneider
Denver7 interviews Alicia Garcia, instructor at Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, about Colorado’s new Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card and the changes affecting firearm purchases beginning August 1, 2026.

Colorado’s new Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card requirement officially took effect on August 1, changing how many law-abiding Coloradans purchase certain semi-automatic firearms. To help explain the new law, Denver7 interviewed Alicia Garcia, an instructor with Concealed Carry Classes of Denver.

If you’ve been hearing about Colorado’s new Firearms Safety Course but aren’t sure how it affects you, you’re not alone. Since the law took effect, we’ve received questions from people across the Denver metro area asking whether they need the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card, what firearms are affected, and how they can complete the required training.

What Is the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is a new requirement created under Colorado law for the purchase of certain semi-automatic firearms. Before purchasing a firearm covered by the law, eligible buyers must successfully complete a state-approved Firearms Safety Course and then apply for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card through their local sheriff’s office.

Once the card is issued, it becomes part of the purchasing process for firearms covered under the statute.

While this law has generated significant discussion throughout Colorado, one thing is clear: if you’re planning to purchase a firearm covered by the law, understanding the process ahead of time can save you time, frustration, and unnecessary delays.

Do You Need the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card to Buy Every Firearm?

No.

Many people mistakenly believe the new law applies to every firearm sold in Colorado. It does not.

For example, a standard Glock 17 or many other traditional handguns can still be purchased without completing the Firearms Safety Course because they are not covered under this particular requirement.

However, many popular semi-automatic rifles and other firearms may require purchasers to obtain the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card before completing the sale.

If you’re unsure whether the firearm you plan to purchase is affected, it’s always a good idea to ask your firearms dealer before beginning the process.

What Is Covered During the Firearms Safety Course?

Colorado-approved Firearms Safety Courses cover topics required under state law, including:

  • Colorado firearm laws
  • Safe firearm handling
  • Secure firearm storage
  • Responsibilities of firearm ownership
  • Conflict avoidance
  • Legal use of force
  • Written examination requirements

Depending on your qualifications, Colorado law provides either a 4-hour or 12-hour course option.

Where Can You Take the Colorado Firearms Safety Course?

Concealed Carry Classes of Denver offers state-approved Colorado Firearms Safety Courses for students throughout the Denver metro area.

Our instructors have years of experience teaching responsible firearm ownership and stay current on Colorado’s changing firearms laws. Our goal is to provide straightforward, professional instruction so students understand both the legal requirements and the practical responsibilities of firearm ownership.

You can learn more about the course, view upcoming class dates, and register online here:

👉 Colorado Firearms Safety Course

What is the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is a card issued by a Colorado sheriff’s office after an applicant completes a state-approved Firearms Safety Course and meets the requirements established under Colorado law. The card is required before purchasing certain semi-automatic firearms covered by the statute.

When did the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card become required?

The requirement took effect on August 1, 2026.

Does everyone buying a firearm in Colorado need this card?

No.

The requirement only applies to firearms covered under Colorado law. Many traditional handguns, bolt-action rifles, revolvers, pump-action shotguns, and other firearms are not subject to this requirement.

Do I need the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card to buy a Glock 17?

No.

A standard Glock 17 and many other traditional semi-automatic handguns are not covered under the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card requirement.

Which firearms require the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The law applies to certain semi-automatic firearms defined under Colorado law. If you’re unsure whether the firearm you want to purchase requires the card, ask your licensed firearms dealer before beginning the purchasing process.

Who teaches the Firearms Safety Course?

The course must be taught by a Colorado-approved instructor who meets the state’s training requirements.

Is Concealed Carry Classes of Denver approved to teach the Firearms Safety Course?

Yes.

Concealed Carry Classes of Denver offers Colorado-approved Firearms Safety Courses taught by experienced instructors who stay current on Colorado firearm laws.

How long is the Firearms Safety Course?

Colorado currently offers two course options:

  • 4-hour course for individuals who qualify under state requirements.
  • 12-hour course for individuals who do not qualify for the shorter course.

Is there live-fire training?

No.

Colorado’s Firearms Safety Course does not require a live-fire qualification. The course is classroom based and concludes with a written examination required by state law.

What score do I need to pass?

Students must earn a minimum passing score established by Colorado law on the written examination.

What topics are covered?

The course includes:

  • Colorado firearm laws
  • Safe firearm handling
  • Secure firearm storage
  • Conflict avoidance
  • Responsibilities of firearm ownership
  • Legal considerations involving firearm use
  • Additional topics required by Colorado law

After I pass the course, do I automatically receive my Eligibility Card?

No.

After successfully completing the course, you’ll receive documentation showing you completed the training. You must then submit your application to your local Colorado sheriff’s office to obtain your Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card.

Can I apply through any sheriff’s office?

Colorado law outlines where applications may be submitted. Check with your local sheriff’s office for current application procedures and residency requirements.

How long is the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card valid?

The validity period is determined by Colorado law and the issuing sheriff’s office. Always verify the current expiration period before relying on your card for a future firearm purchase.

Is this the same as a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) class?

No.

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is a completely separate requirement from Colorado’s Concealed Handgun Permit training. Completing one does not replace the other.

Can I take the course before purchasing a firearm?

Yes.

Many students choose to complete the course before shopping for a firearm so they already have the required documentation and can avoid delays.

What should I bring to class?

Students should bring:

  • A valid government-issued photo ID
  • Any documentation needed to qualify for the 4-hour course (if applicable)
  • A notebook and pen if desired

No firearm is required for the class.

Where are classes held?

Concealed Carry Classes of Denver offers Firearms Safety Courses throughout the Denver metro area with convenient weekend and weekday options.

How much does the course cost?

Course pricing may change throughout the year. Visit our website for current tuition, available discounts, and upcoming class dates.

How do I register?

Registration is simple and can be completed online in just a few minutes.

Visit:

Denver Firearms Safety Course

to view available class dates and reserve your seat.

Why are so many people searching for information about this course?

Because the law is new, many Colorado residents are trying to understand how it affects future firearm purchases. As more sheriff’s offices implement the application process, questions continue to come in from prospective firearm owners across the state.

Have more questions?

Our instructors are happy to answer your questions before you register. At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, our goal is to provide accurate information, professional instruction, and a straightforward path through Colorado’s new Firearms Safety Course requirements.

Resources and Other Articles

Concealed Carry

Which Firearms Require a Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

Mark Schneider

Official Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guide

Beginning August 1, 2026, Colorado law requires many individuals purchasing specified semiautomatic firearms to first complete a state-approved Firearms Safety Course and obtain a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC).

Does the firearm I am to purchasing require a firearms safety course?

The answer isn’t always straightforward.

To help firearm dealers and purchasers, the Colorado Department of Revenue published a comprehensive Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance document identifying hundreds of firearm models and series that fall under Colorado’s new law.

This guide explains what the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is, what types of firearms are included, and how to determine whether the firearm you’re planning to purchase may require the card before completing your transaction.

What Is the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is issued through the applicant’s county sheriff and is part of the process required to purchase or transfer a specified semiautomatic firearm in Colorado.

The application and card come before the firearms safety course. The correct order is:

  1. Create an account in the Colorado Firearms Safety System and submit an application.
  2. Provide the required identification and name-based background-check information to your county sheriff.
  3. Pay the Colorado Parks and Wildlife fee and any separate fee charged by the sheriff.
  4. The sheriff reviews the application and, if approved, issues the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card.
  5. Enroll in the appropriate course with a verified Firearms Safety Program instructor.
  6. Complete the course, hands-on practical exercises, and final examination with a score of at least 90%.
  7. The instructor records your completion in the Firearms Safety System.
  8. Present your eligibility information to a licensed firearm dealer when purchasing a covered firearm.

Applicants with qualifying Hunter Education complete the 4-hour Basic Firearms Safety Course. Applicants without qualifying Hunter Education complete the 12-hour Extended Firearms Safety Course, which must be taught over at least two separate days.

The card is valid for five years, but it does not authorize the purchase of a covered firearm by itself. The required course and examination must also be successfully completed before the dealer can verify eligibility and proceed with the firearm transaction.

What Firearms Are Covered?

Colorado’s published guidance identifies hundreds of firearm models and firearm series that meet the statutory definition of a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm.

While many people immediately think of the AR-15, the guidance includes a much broader selection of firearms from dozens of manufacturers.

The published guidance primarily consists of:

  • Semiautomatic rifles
  • Semiautomatic detachable-magazine shotguns
  • Frames, receivers, and certain firearm parts kits associated with specified semiautomatic firearms

The Department reviews and updates the guidance annually as new firearm models become available.

The Official List Is Much Larger Than Most People Expect

Many firearm owners assume the law only applies to AR-15 style rifles.

In reality, Colorado’s official guidance spans more than 150 pages and includes hundreds of firearm models from manufacturers across the world.

Examples of manufacturers appearing in the guidance include:

  • Aero Precision
  • Adams Arms
  • Alexander Arms
  • American Tactical
  • Anderson Manufacturing
  • Arsenal
  • B&T
  • Barrett
  • Battle Arms Development
  • Bear Creek Arsenal
  • Black Rain Ordnance
  • Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM)
  • Brigade Manufacturing
  • Bushmaster
  • Camdon Defense
  • Caracal
  • Century Arms
  • Chiappa Firearms
  • Citadel
  • Colt
  • Daniel Defense
  • Diamondback Firearms
  • DSA Arms
  • FN America
  • Heckler & Koch
  • IWI
  • Kalashnikov USA
  • KelTec
  • LWRC International
  • Palmetto State Armory
  • Ruger
  • Sig Sauer
  • Smith & Wesson
  • Springfield Armory
  • Windham Weaponry

This is only a small sample of the manufacturers included within the official guidance.

Popular Firearm Platforms Included

Rather than attempting to list every firearm contained within the 150-page guidance, it is more useful to understand the firearm platforms commonly included.

AR-15 Platform Rifles

The guidance contains numerous AR-pattern rifles manufactured by companies such as:

  • Aero Precision
  • Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM)
  • Bushmaster
  • Anderson Manufacturing
  • Adams Arms
  • Black Rain Ordnance
  • Bear Creek Arsenal
  • Daniel Defense
  • Diamondback Firearms
  • LWRC International
  • Palmetto State Armory
  • Ruger
  • Smith & Wesson
  • Springfield Armory
  • Windham Weaponry

Because AR-platform rifles are highly customizable, Colorado notes that firearms configured to meet the statutory definition may still fall within the law.

AR-10 Style Rifles

The guidance also includes many AR-10 platform rifles, including manufacturers such as:

  • Aero Precision
  • Alexander Arms
  • Anderson Manufacturing
  • Brigade Manufacturing
  • Barrett
  • Black Creek Labs

AK Pattern Rifles

Numerous AK-pattern rifles are identified throughout the guidance, including firearms manufactured by:

  • Arsenal
  • Century Arms
  • Kalashnikov USA
  • Palmetto State Armory
  • Various imported AK platforms

Pistol-Caliber Carbines (PCC)

Many semiautomatic pistol-caliber carbines also appear in the published guidance, including firearms from manufacturers such as:

  • Anderson Manufacturing
  • B&T
  • Brigade Manufacturing
  • Ruger
  • Smith & Wesson

.22 LR Semiautomatic Rifles

One of the biggest surprises for many firearm owners is the inclusion of numerous semiautomatic .22 caliber rifles.

Examples include rifles manufactured by:

  • Armscorp
  • Bear Creek Arsenal
  • Brigade Manufacturing
  • German Sport Guns (GSG)

Precision Semiautomatic Rifles

Colorado’s guidance also includes larger-caliber semiautomatic rifles, including examples from:

  • Barrett
  • Daniel Defense
  • FN America
  • LWRC International
  • Sig Sauer

Tactical Shotguns

The guidance includes numerous semiautomatic detachable-magazine shotguns, including firearms manufactured by:

  • Black Aces Tactical
  • Century Arms
  • Chiappa Firearms
  • Citadel
  • Molot
  • Panzer Arms
  • Rock Island Armory

Not Every Firearm Requires the Eligibility Card

While the guidance contains hundreds of listed firearms, not every firearm sold in Colorado requires a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card.

Certain firearms are excluded by Colorado statute and therefore are not included within the published guidance.

If you are unsure whether your firearm is covered, always consult the current Colorado guidance before making a purchase.

Frames, Receivers, and Parts Kits

One of the most overlooked parts of Colorado’s Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card law is that it doesn’t apply only to complete firearms.

Under C.R.S. 18-12-116 and the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance, frames, receivers, and weapons parts kits for specified semiautomatic firearms are also considered Specified Semiautomatic Firearms and are subject to the same requirements as complete firearms.

This means that if you are purchasing components associated with a covered firearm—such as certain stripped receivers or parts kits—you may also need to meet Colorado’s Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card requirements before completing the transaction.

Because these items are regulated based on their relationship to a specified semiautomatic firearm, they are not typically listed individually throughout the manufacturer’s roster. Instead, their inclusion comes directly from Colorado law and the Department of Revenue’s guidance.

Examples May Include

  • Frames for specified semiautomatic firearms
  • Receivers for specified semiautomatic firearms
  • Weapons parts kits designed for specified semiautomatic firearms

If you’re unsure whether a frame, receiver, or parts kit is covered, consult your licensed Colorado firearms dealer or review the latest guidance published by the Colorado Department of Revenue before making a purchase.

How Do I Know If My Firearm Is Covered?

Before purchasing a firearm, consider the following questions:

  • Is the firearm specifically identified within Colorado’s published guidance?
  • Is it part of a listed firearm series?
  • Is it an AR-platform rifle configured to meet the statutory definition?
  • Is it a semiautomatic detachable-magazine shotgun identified in the guidance?
  • Is it a receiver or parts kit associated with a specified semiautomatic firearm?

If you’re uncertain, consult your licensed firearm dealer or review the official guidance before completing your purchase.

Take Your Denver Firearms Safety Course with Concealed Carry Classes of Denver

If you’re planning to purchase a specified semiautomatic firearm in Colorado, Concealed Carry Classes of Denver (CCCD) makes the process simple, professional, and convenient.

Our Colorado-approved Firearms Safety Courses are taught by Verified Colorado Firearms Safety Program Instructors who provide clear, engaging instruction that goes beyond simply meeting the state’s minimum requirements. Whether you qualify for the 4-Hour Basic Firearms Safety Course or need the 12-Hour Extended Firearms Safety Course, you’ll receive the training necessary to satisfy Colorado’s educational requirements.

12 Hour Firearms Safety Course

Our Colorado-approved 12-hour course is designed for individuals who do not qualify for the shortened 4-hour course. Taught over two days, it provides comprehensive instruction on firearm safety, Colorado law, safe handling, storage, maintenance, and responsible firearm ownership, along with the required written examination and hands-on practical exercises.

12 Hour Firearms Course

4 Hour Firearms Safety Course

Designed for applicants who qualify through an approved Hunter Education program, this Colorado-approved 4-hour course covers firearm safety, Colorado law, safe handling, storage, and responsible ownership. Students complete the required instruction and written examination needed to satisfy the Firearms Safety Course requirement.

4 Hour firearms course

What is the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC) is a state-issued credential required before purchasing certain specified semiautomatic firearms in Colorado. The card is issued through your county sheriff after you submit an application, complete the required background check process, and meet the state’s eligibility requirements. After receiving the card, you must successfully complete the required Firearms Safety Course before purchasing a covered firearm.

Why did Colorado create the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card was established under Colorado law to require additional firearm safety training before purchasing certain specified semiautomatic firearms. The program includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and a written examination designed to educate firearm purchasers on safe handling, storage, transportation, maintenance, and Colorado firearm laws.

Which firearms require the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

The Colorado Department of Revenue publishes a Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance document that identifies hundreds of firearm models and firearm series covered under the law. The guidance primarily includes semiautomatic rifles, semiautomatic detachable-magazine shotguns, and certain frames, receivers, and weapons parts kits associated with specified semiautomatic firearms.

Does every semiautomatic firearm require the Eligibility Card?

No. Not every semiautomatic firearm is covered. Colorado’s law applies only to firearms meeting the statutory definition of a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm. Always review the current Department of Revenue guidance before purchasing a firearm.

Does every AR-15 require the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

Many AR-15 style rifles are included in Colorado’s guidance. However, because AR-platform firearms are highly customizable, the Department of Revenue notes that firearms configured to meet the statutory definition may still be covered, even if they differ slightly from listed models.

Are AR-10 rifles included?

Yes. Numerous AR-10 style rifles appear throughout Colorado’s published guidance.

Are AK-pattern rifles included?

Yes. The official guidance includes many AK-pattern rifles and similar semiautomatic firearm platforms.

Are semiautomatic .22 rifles included?

Some are. Many people are surprised to learn that Colorado’s guidance includes several semiautomatic .22 LR rifle models and firearm series. Always verify your specific firearm before purchasing.

Are tactical shotguns included?

Yes. Colorado’s guidance includes many semiautomatic detachable-magazine shotguns manufactured by numerous companies.

Are stripped lower receivers covered?

Colorado law states that frames, receivers, and weapons parts kits for specified semiautomatic firearms are also considered specified semiautomatic firearms. If you’re purchasing a stripped receiver or similar component, review the current guidance and consult your dealer if you have questions.

What if my firearm isn’t specifically listed?

Colorado’s guidance is intended to help identify covered firearms, but the Department also explains that highly customizable firearm platforms may still fall under the law if they meet the statutory definition. If you’re uncertain, consult your licensed firearm dealer before purchasing.

How do I apply for a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

Applicants must submit an application through Colorado’s Firearms Safety System, complete the required background check process through their county sheriff, pay the applicable fees, and receive approval before completing the required Firearms Safety Course.

Do I take the Firearms Safety Course before or after receiving my Eligibility Card?

Under Colorado’s current process, you first apply for and receive your Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card. After your application is approved, you complete the required Firearms Safety Course and written examination before purchasing a covered firearm.

What is the difference between the 4-hour and 12-hour Firearms Safety Course?

Applicants who possess qualifying Hunter Education certification may be eligible for the 4-hour Basic Firearms Safety Course. Individuals who do not qualify must complete the 12-hour Extended Firearms Safety Course, which includes additional classroom instruction and practical exercises over at least two days.

Is live-fire required?

No. Colorado’s Firearms Safety Course does not require live-fire shooting. However, students must complete required hands-on practical exercises and successfully pass the written examination.

What score do I need to pass the written examination?

Students must achieve a minimum score of 90% on the required written examination to successfully complete the Firearms Safety Course.

How long is the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card valid?

The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is valid for five years unless suspended, revoked, or otherwise affected under Colorado law.

Can I use my Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit instead of taking the Firearms Safety Course?

No. A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit does not replace the Firearms Safety Course requirement. If you’re purchasing a firearm covered under Colorado’s Specified Semiautomatic Firearms law, you must comply with the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card requirements unless another statutory exemption applies.

Can I purchase a firearm immediately after completing the course?

After successfully completing the Firearms Safety Course, your instructor records your completion in Colorado’s Firearms Safety System. Your firearm dealer will verify your eligibility before completing the transfer of a covered firearm.

What happens if I fail the written examination?

Students who do not achieve the required passing score must follow the course provider’s policies regarding retesting or additional instruction before successfully completing the course.

Does the official firearm list change?

Yes. The Colorado Department of Revenue reviews and updates the Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance as needed. Before purchasing any firearm, always verify you’re using the most current version of the guidance.

Where can I take a Colorado Firearms Safety Course?

Concealed Carry Classes of Denver offers Colorado-approved 4-hour and 12-hour Firearms Safety Courses taught by Verified Firearms Safety Program Instructors. Our courses provide the training required under Colorado law while helping students understand firearm safety, state regulations, and the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card process from start to finish.

Disclaimer

The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Colorado firearm laws and the Department of Revenue’s Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Guidance may change. Always review the most current official guidance and consult your licensed firearm dealer or legal counsel if you have questions about a specific firearm or your eligibility.

Resources and Other Articles

Legal & Law, Self Defense

What Happens If You Miss and Hit an Innocent Person During a Self-Defense Shooting in Colorado?

Mark Schneider

One of the most sobering realities of carrying a firearm for self-defense is understanding that every round you fire has a legal, moral, and financial consequence.

Most concealed carry permit holders spend a great deal of time thinking about whether they would be legally justified in using force against an attacker. However, far fewer people consider what happens if they miss their intended target and strike an innocent bystander.

What if you are legally justified in defending yourself, but one of your rounds misses and injures or kills someone else?

Every Bullet Has a Lawyer Attached to It

A common saying in the firearms training community is:

“Every bullet has a lawyer attached to it.”

While that phrase may sound dramatic, it highlights an important reality. You are responsible for every round you fire.

Even if you are the victim of a violent attack, investigators will examine every shot you fired and where those rounds ultimately ended up.

The fact that you were defending yourself does not automatically eliminate potential criminal or civil liability for unintended injuries.

Does Self-Defense Automatically Protect You?

Not necessarily.

Colorado law recognizes the right to use force, including deadly force, when certain legal requirements are met. However, that legal justification generally applies to the threat you were defending against.

The law may view an innocent bystander differently than the attacker.

If a bystander is injured, investigators will examine questions such as:

  • Were you justified in using deadly force?
  • Was your use of force reasonable?
  • Were you acting recklessly?
  • Were you aware of what was beyond your target?
  • Did you continue firing when it was unsafe to do so?

The answers to those questions can significantly affect both criminal and civil outcomes.

Criminal Liability

Every self-defense incident is fact-specific, but striking an innocent person can potentially lead to criminal scrutiny.

Depending on the circumstances, prosecutors may examine offenses such as:

  • Reckless Endangerment
  • Criminally Negligent Homicide
  • Manslaughter
  • Assault
  • Other applicable charges

Whether charges are filed often depends on whether your actions were considered reasonable under the circumstances.

For example, firing carefully at an armed attacker who is actively attempting to kill you may be viewed differently than firing multiple rounds wildly through a crowded area.

The totality of the circumstances matters.

Civil Liability Can Be Even More Expensive

Even if no criminal charges are filed, civil lawsuits are a separate matter.

An innocent bystander who is injured—or the family of a deceased bystander—may pursue a civil claim seeking compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability
  • Wrongful death damages

Unlike a criminal case, which requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, civil cases generally operate under a much lower burden of proof.

This means someone can avoid criminal conviction and still face substantial civil liability.

Why Target Identification Matters

One of the most important firearm safety rules is:

Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

This rule is not merely a range safety guideline. It becomes critically important during defensive shootings.

Common issues include:

  • Missed shots
  • Overpenetration
  • Ricochets
  • Poor visibility
  • Low-light conditions
  • Crowded environments

In many defensive encounters, innocent people may be near the threat.

A responsible armed citizen must constantly assess what is behind, beside, and around the target before pressing the trigger.

Stress Makes Shooting Much Harder

Many people assume they will shoot as well during a violent encounter as they do at the range.

Unfortunately, real-world shootings rarely work that way.

Under extreme stress, people often experience:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Tunnel vision
  • Auditory exclusion
  • Loss of fine motor skills
  • Reduced accuracy

Even highly trained law enforcement officers sometimes miss during lethal-force encounters.

That reality highlights the importance of regular training and realistic practice.

How Training Helps Reduce Risk

No amount of training can eliminate risk completely, but quality training can improve your ability to:

  • Make sound decisions under pressure
  • Identify threats quickly
  • Shoot accurately
  • Manage recoil
  • Understand when not to shoot
  • Evaluate backstops and surroundings

Defensive firearm training is not just about hitting the target. It is also about avoiding unnecessary risks to innocent people.

What If You Had No Other Choice?

Some situations present impossible decisions.

Imagine an armed attacker is actively shooting at you or your family inside a crowded store.

You may have only seconds to act.

In those situations, investigators, prosecutors, and juries often examine whether your actions were reasonable based on what you knew at the time—not with the benefit of hindsight.

The law generally recognizes that people facing imminent deadly threats do not have the luxury of perfect decision-making.

However, that does not automatically eliminate scrutiny when innocent people are injured.

The Moral Reality

Beyond legal consequences, there is also a human element.

Most responsible gun owners carry firearms to protect innocent life.

Accidentally injuring an innocent person can have emotional and psychological consequences that last a lifetime.

Understanding that possibility should encourage every concealed carrier to take training, judgment, and accountability seriously.

How to Reduce the Chances of Hitting a Bystander

While no defensive shooting is risk-free, you can reduce risk by:

  • Maintaining situational awareness
  • Avoiding dangerous situations when possible
  • Practicing regularly
  • Using quality defensive ammunition
  • Understanding your firearm’s capabilities
  • Identifying what is beyond your target
  • Moving when possible to improve your angle
  • Only firing when legally and tactically justified

The best shot is not always the first shot available. Sometimes it is the shot that can be made safely.

Final Thoughts

Carrying a firearm for self-defense comes with tremendous responsibility.

If you are forced to use deadly force, your goal is to stop the threat—not simply fire rounds in the direction of danger.

Every round you fire must be accounted for.

A missed shot that strikes an innocent person can lead to criminal investigation, civil litigation, financial hardship, and emotional consequences that may last for years.

Understanding these realities is one reason quality training matters. Responsible concealed carry is not just about learning when you can shoot—it is also about understanding the consequences when things do not go as planned.

If you want to learn more about Colorado self-defense law, concealed carry, and defensive firearm training, visit Concealed Carry Classes of Denver to view upcoming classes and training opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I miss an attacker and hit an innocent person, can I still be charged with a crime?

Possibly. Even if you were legally justified in defending yourself, investigators will examine whether your actions were reasonable under the circumstances. Depending on the facts, criminal charges such as reckless endangerment, assault, manslaughter, or criminally negligent homicide may be considered.

Does self-defense protect me from liability if a bystander is injured?

Not automatically. A self-defense claim may justify your use of force against the attacker, but it does not necessarily shield you from criminal or civil liability if an innocent person is injured.

Can I be sued if I accidentally hit a bystander?

Yes. Even if no criminal charges are filed, an injured bystander—or their family—may pursue a civil lawsuit seeking compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or wrongful death damages.

What if I was completely justified in using deadly force?

Being justified in using deadly force against an attacker does not automatically mean you are protected from scrutiny regarding every round you fired. Investigators will still examine whether your actions were reasonable and whether you acted recklessly.

Am I responsible for every bullet I fire?

Yes. One of the fundamental principles of firearms ownership is that you are responsible for every round that leaves your firearm. This includes missed shots, ricochets, and rounds that pass through the intended target.

Could I lose my concealed handgun permit if I hit an innocent person?

Potentially. Depending on the circumstances, criminal charges, convictions, or other legal findings could affect your eligibility to possess firearms or maintain a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit.

What if the attacker was actively trying to kill me?

The law generally recognizes that people facing an imminent deadly threat must make decisions under extreme stress. However, investigators will still evaluate whether your actions were reasonable based on the totality of the circumstances.

Does Colorado law require me to hit only the attacker?

No law specifically says that, but you are still responsible for your actions. A missed shot that injures an innocent person can create serious legal consequences regardless of your intended target.

How can I reduce the risk of hitting an innocent person?

Regular training, maintaining situational awareness, identifying what is beyond your target, and understanding when not to shoot can all help reduce the risk. Accuracy and judgment are just as important as marksmanship.

Why does CCCD emphasize accuracy over speed?

Because missing fast is still missing. In a defensive shooting, every round you fire has to go somewhere. Responsible concealed carry means making accurate, accountable hits while understanding the environment around you.

Sign Up for a Colorado Concealed Carry Class

If you’re applying for a permit or renewing, make sure your training meets Colorado law.

At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, we offer:

  • New Applicant CCW Classes
  • CCW Renewal Classes
  • Live-fire training included
  • Certificates accepted by county sheriffs across Colorado

Our courses are straightforward, legally compliant, and designed to get you through the process the right way the first time.

Book A Colorado CCW Class

Consider Self-Defense Insurance

Even a completely justified self-defense shooting can result in criminal investigations, civil lawsuits, and significant legal expenses. While no policy can prevent these challenges, self-defense legal protection plans can help cover attorney fees, expert witnesses, court costs, and other expenses associated with defending your actions.

The best time to research your options is before you ever need them. At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, we encourage every responsible gun owner to understand the benefits and limitations of self-defense coverage and choose a plan that fits their needs.

Click here to compare self-defense insurance and legal protection plans

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Legal Disclaimer:
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws can change, and local, state, federal, tribal, and municipal regulations may vary. Always verify current laws and consult a qualified attorney before carrying a firearm or making legal decisions related to self-defense. Concealed Carry Classes Of Denver LLC assumes no liability for actions taken based on this content.