Category: News

This category covers the latest updates in firearm laws, self-defense legislation, concealed carry regulations, industry developments, court decisions, and major events impacting gun owners and personal protection rights. Stay informed with timely and relevant news affecting the firearms and self-defense community.

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law, News

Colorado Concealed Carry Class – Verified CCW Instructor

Mark Schneider

As a Colorado resident, obtaining a concealed carry permit (CCW) is not only a way to protect yourself and your loved ones but also a significant responsibility. If you’re ready to take that step, it’s crucial to ensure you’re receiving proper instruction from a verified and authorized instructor.

Mark Schneider (DPD Verified CHP Instructor)

I’m Mark Schneider, a firearms instructor authorized by the Denver Police Department to teach all Colorado residents the concealed handgun training required to obtain a Colorado concealed carry permit. As of October 3, 2024, I have been officially verified as a firearms instructor under Colorado Revised Statutes 18-12-207.7. This verification means I have met or exceeded all state requirements for certification and am legally qualified to teach CCW classes throughout the state.

What Does it Mean to Be a Verified CCW Instructor?

To ensure high standards of training, Colorado law requires that all concealed carry instructors be verified by the sheriff of the county where they primarily conduct training. This verification is governed by 18-12-202.7, which lays out the strict criteria that instructors must meet. As a verified instructor, I have gone through a thorough process that includes holding a valid concealed handgun permit, being certified by a recognized firearms training organization, and demonstrating my ability to instruct.

Verification is not a one-time process—it is valid for 10 years, meaning my status as a verified instructor is current through October 2034, and I must maintain my qualifications throughout this period. The Denver Police Department has confirmed my ability to instruct Colorado residents in both initial CCW courses and refresher courses for permit renewal.

What You Can Expect from My CCW Classes

When you choose to train with me, you’re getting more than just the required certificate—you’re receiving high-quality, personalized instruction that covers all aspects of firearm safety and legal responsibilities. My classes are designed to ensure that you leave feeling confident, knowledgeable, and well-prepared to carry a concealed handgun responsibly. Here’s a breakdown of what my courses include:

1. In-Person, Hands-On Instruction

Colorado law mandates that concealed handgun training be conducted in person with the instructor present at the same location as the students—no part of the class can be taught online. My classes are interactive, with live-fire exercises that ensure you’re comfortable and competent handling a firearm. You’ll be learning in a safe and supportive environment, with real-time feedback to help you improve your skills.

2. Comprehensive Curriculum

My CCW course covers a wide range of topics to ensure you understand both the practical and legal aspects of carrying a concealed firearm. You’ll receive detailed instruction on:

  • Firearms safety fundamentals: Proper handling, storage, and care for your firearm.
  • Shooting fundamentals: Grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and more.
  • Colorado and federal firearm laws: You’ll learn the intricacies of state laws, including those governing the use of deadly force for self-defense, and the latest updates, such as the Extreme Risk Protection Orders and the Isabella Joy Thallas Act on reporting lost or stolen firearms.
  • Conflict management and de-escalation: Techniques to avoid or mitigate dangerous situations and the judgmental use of lethal force.
  • Interaction with law enforcement: Best practices for safely interacting with law enforcement while carrying a concealed weapon.

3. Live-Fire Shooting Exercise

One of the most important components of concealed carry training is the live-fire shooting exercise. Colorado law requires that students discharge at least 50 rounds of ammunition and achieve at least 70% accuracy to pass. In my class, you’ll receive personalized coaching during this exercise, helping you improve your shooting skills while ensuring that you meet the state’s accuracy requirements.

4. Written Competency Exam

In addition to the live-fire portion, Colorado law mandates that all students pass a written concealed handgun competency exam, testing your knowledge of firearms safety, laws, and use of force principles. You’ll need to score at least 80% on this exam to pass, and it will be administered as an open-book test, allowing you to refer back to course materials.

5. Refresher Classes

If you already have a concealed carry permit and need to renew it, I also offer refresher courses that meet all state requirements. Refresher courses are required to include at least two hours of instruction, including a live-fire exercise and a written exam. These courses ensure you stay up-to-date with any changes in firearm laws and maintain your skills.

Why Choose Me as Your CCW Instructor?

With over a decade of experience as a firearms instructor and security professional, I have trained hundreds of individuals, including security guards, law enforcement officers, and responsible gun owners. My training methods are designed to exceed state standards while providing students with practical skills that go beyond the basics. Here’s why you should choose me for your CCW training:

  • Authorized by the Denver Police Department: I am a verified and authorized instructor, giving you the assurance that your training meets all legal requirements.
  • Proven Experience: I have over 10 years of experience as an armed security guard and have trained hundreds of individuals in firearm safety, defensive shooting, and concealed carry.
  • High-Quality Instruction: My courses are interactive, hands-on, and designed to ensure you’re confident in your ability to carry and use a firearm responsibly.
  • Comprehensive Support: I offer ongoing support and advice, even after the course is complete, to help you stay informed about changing laws and best practices for concealed carry.

Ready to Get Your CCW Permit?

Whether you’re applying for your first concealed carry permit or renewing an existing one, my classes provide everything you need to meet Colorado’s legal requirements and carry a concealed handgun with confidence. With a strong emphasis on safety, legal knowledge, and real-world skills, I’m committed to helping you become a responsible and capable firearm carrier.

Sign up today for a CCW class, or contact me for more information. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about the process, the curriculum, or your responsibilities as a concealed carry permit holder.

Contact Information:

I look forward to helping you obtain your Colorado concealed carry permit!

Denver Police Verified Instructor #: 2024005

Mark Schneider Verified Instructor CertificateDownload
News

Three Landmark Supreme Court Decisions That Protect Your Right to Own and Carry Firearms

Mark Schneider

Over the years, several key Supreme Court decisions have shaped and reinforced the Second Amendment rights of Americans. In particular, District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), McDonald v. Chicago (2010), and New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) have set significant legal precedents regarding the right to own and carry firearms. These rulings have not only affirmed the individual’s right to bear arms but have also made it clear that state and local governments cannot infringe on this constitutional right.

District of Columbia v. Heller (2008)

The Heller decision was the first major case in modern history to interpret the Second Amendment as protecting an individual’s right to possess firearms. At the center of this case was Washington D.C.’s ban on handguns, which effectively prohibited most residents from owning or carrying a handgun within their home. The Supreme Court ruled that this ban was unconstitutional and that individuals have the right to possess firearms, specifically for self-defense.

This ruling is crucial because it established that the Second Amendment protects an individual’s right to own a firearm, not just in the context of militia service. The Court made it clear: owning a handgun for personal protection is a fundamental right, one that cannot be taken away by the government without violating the Constitution.

McDonald v. Chicago (2010)

Two years after Heller, the Supreme Court extended this protection to state and local governments with the McDonald decision. Chicago had its own handgun ban, similar to the one struck down in Heller. The question in this case was whether the Second Amendment applied to states and municipalities, not just the federal government.

The Court held that the Second Amendment, as interpreted in Heller, applies to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment’s Due Process Clause. This decision made it clear that no state or city can deny individuals their right to own a handgun for self-defense. McDonald was a pivotal moment in the fight for gun rights, ensuring that local laws banning or severely restricting firearms ownership could not stand in the face of constitutional protections.

New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022)

The most recent and perhaps the most far-reaching decision came in Bruen. In this case, New York had a law that required individuals to show “proper cause” to get a permit to carry a concealed firearm in public. Essentially, unless you could prove you had a special need for self-defense, your permit application could be denied. The Supreme Court struck down this law, ruling that the Second Amendment protects the right to carry a firearm in public for self-defense.

The Bruen decision invalidated similar laws across the country that gave local authorities discretion over who could carry a firearm in public. The Court emphasized that the Second Amendment does not limit the right to bear arms to one’s home but extends to carrying firearms in public for lawful purposes. This was a major victory for gun owners, particularly in states and cities that had imposed strict regulations on public carry.

The Impact of These Decisions

Together, these three decisions have created a robust legal framework that protects your right to own and carry firearms. The Heller ruling established that the Second Amendment guarantees the individual right to possess firearms. McDonald ensured that states and cities cannot override this right, and Bruen made it clear that the right to carry firearms in public is constitutionally protected.

These rulings have rendered many restrictive local and state gun control measures invalid, particularly those that sought to limit concealed carry or impose undue burdens on law-abiding citizens. For example, cities like New York, which once heavily restricted the issuance of concealed carry permits, are now required to issue permits to applicants who meet basic legal requirements without imposing arbitrary standards.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court decisions in Heller, McDonald, and Bruen have strengthened the protections provided by the Second Amendment, affirming that individuals have the right to own firearms for self-defense and carry them in public. These landmark rulings ensure that states and cities cannot infringe on this fundamental right, making it clear that your right to bear arms is protected both at home and in public.

Gun owners must remain vigilant in the fight to protect their Second Amendment rights, as this battle will never truly be over. Anti-gun laws and regulations continue to surface, threatening our ability to defend ourselves and exercise our constitutional rights. I highly recommend joining organizations like Rocky Mountain Gun Owners (RMGO) here in Colorado to ensure your voice is heard. National organizations like the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR), and Gun Owners of America (GOA) are also excellent allies in this fight. By joining these groups, you can help protect your rights and ensure that the government doesn’t infringe on your freedom to bear arms.

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law, News

Colorado’s New Law on Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms: What You Need to Know

Mark Schneider

Starting January 1, 2025, Colorado’s new firearm regulation, specifically statute 18-12-113, mandates that gun owners must report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement within five days of discovering the loss or theft. This legislation, named the “Isabella Joy Thallas Act,” reflects an ongoing effort by the state to regulate firearm ownership more strictly and to curb gun-related crimes by ensuring prompt reporting of lost or stolen firearms. Here’s a detailed look at what this law entails, its implications for gun owners, and some examples of compliance and non-compliance.

The Reporting Requirement

Under the new law, any gun owner who has a reasonable cause to believe their firearm has been lost or stolen must report the incident to a law enforcement agency within five days. The report must include a detailed description of the firearm, including the manufacturer, model, serial number, caliber, and any other identifying marks. The intent is to aid law enforcement in tracking and recovering lost or stolen firearms, potentially reducing the chances of these guns being used in criminal activities.

The law also allows for someone other than the firearm owner, such as a family member or someone residing with the owner, to report the loss or theft. In such cases, the owner is not required to make a separate report, and the act of reporting does not constitute an acknowledgment of ownership by the reporting party.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

Failure to report a lost or stolen firearm within the specified timeframe is initially treated as a civil infraction, punishable by a $25 fine. However, for a second or subsequent offense, the penalty escalates to an unclassified misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $500. This escalation emphasizes the importance the state places on timely reporting and its commitment to enforcing this new regulation.

Licensed gun dealers are exempt from this requirement, acknowledging that their inventory and reporting processes are already subject to strict regulation.

Immunity for Reporting

An important provision within this law is the immunity it offers to those who report their lost or stolen firearms. Once a firearm is reported as lost or stolen, the reporting individual is granted immunity from criminal prosecution related to firearm storage laws, as well as from civil infractions related to the unlawful storage of firearms in vehicles under section 18-12-114.5. This immunity is likely designed to encourage gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms without fear of legal repercussions for other potential storage-related violations.

Examples of Compliance and Non-Compliance

Example of Compliance:

John, a Colorado gun owner, returns from a weekend trip to discover that one of his firearms is missing from his home safe. He searches thoroughly but realizes that the gun has likely been stolen. The next day, John goes to his local police department and reports the theft, providing all the necessary details, including the firearm’s make, model, and serial number. Because John reported the theft within five days, he complies with the law and receives immunity from any related charges concerning firearm storage or possession.

In this scenario, John’s prompt action not only protects him from potential legal consequences but also aids law enforcement in tracking the stolen firearm, reducing the risk that it could be used in a crime.

Example of Non-Compliance:

Jane, another gun owner, notices that her handgun is missing from her car but assumes she misplaced it. A few weeks later, she realizes the gun was likely stolen while she was running errands. Worried about potential legal trouble, Jane decides not to report the theft, hoping the firearm won’t be traced back to her. Months later, the stolen gun is used in a crime, and police trace it back to Jane, who had not reported it as stolen.

In this case, Jane’s failure to report the stolen firearm within five days results in a civil infraction and a fine. If she had been previously fined for the same issue, she could face a more severe penalty, such as a misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $500. Moreover, Jane could face additional legal scrutiny due to the gun’s involvement in criminal activity.

These examples highlight the importance of timely reporting. Gun owners who promptly report lost or stolen firearms not only comply with the law but also protect themselves from potential legal and criminal consequences.

The Pro-Gun Perspective and Constitutional Concerns

While this law is aimed at improving public safety and reducing gun violence, it raises significant concerns from a pro-gun perspective. The requirement to report a lost or stolen firearm places an additional regulatory burden on law-abiding gun owners, potentially leading to unintended consequences for those who, for various reasons, fail to comply within the specified timeframe.

Moreover, the gradual criminalization of failing to report a lost or stolen firearm, escalating from a civil infraction to a misdemeanor, could be seen as an overreach, infringing on the rights of gun owners. This aspect of the law may be viewed as an incremental step towards more invasive regulations that could further restrict Second Amendment rights.

Critics may also argue that the law fails to address the root causes of gun violence and instead penalizes responsible gun owners who may already be dealing with the distress of losing a firearm. Additionally, concerns about the constitutionality of this law may arise, particularly in relation to the potential for governmental overreach and the precedent it sets for further regulation.

Conclusion

As Colorado implements the “Isabella Joy Thallas Act,” gun owners must be aware of their new legal obligations. While the law aims to enhance public safety, it also introduces new challenges and concerns for the state’s gun-owning community. The examples of compliance and non-compliance illustrate the practical effects of the law and underscore the importance of understanding and adhering to these new requirements. The debate over the balance between public safety and constitutional rights is likely to continue as similar laws emerge across the country.