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

How to Legally Store a Firearm in Your Vehicle In Colorado

Mark Schneider

As of January 1, 2025, Colorado gun owners must comply with CRS § 18‑12‑114.5, a new law requiring secure firearm storage in unattended vehicles. If you keep a handgun or long gun in your car or truck, this law affects you.

The goal? Preventing theft, unauthorized access, and negligent storage. Here’s what you need to know—and how to stay on the right side of the law.

🔒 What Does CRS § 18‑12‑114.5 Require?

The law clearly outlines how firearms must be secured if left in a parked and unattended vehicle.

For Handguns:

You must store the handgun in a:

  • Locked, hard-sided container
  • That is out of plain view
  • Inside one of the following:
    • A locked vehicle
    • The locked trunk of a vehicle
    • A locked RV

Acceptable examples:

  • Locked glove box or center console (must be hard-sided and locked)
  • Lockable pistol case (like Pelican or Plano) stowed under a seat or in the trunk

For Long Guns (Rifles or Shotguns):

You must either:

  1. Store it in a locked, hard-sided container, or
  2. Use a locked, soft-sided case with a locking device installed on the firearm (such as a cable lock or trigger lock)

Storing a rifle in a soft bag alone—without a lock on the firearm—does not comply.

🚫 What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Failure to follow CRS § 18‑12‑114.5 results in a civil infraction with a fine of up to $500.

Even more serious: if your unsecured firearm is stolen and used in a crime, you could face civil liability or legal scrutiny.

🙅‍♂️ Who Is Exempt?

There are a few carve-outs. You are exempt if:

  • The firearm is an antique
  • You are using a long gun on private farm or ranch land
  • You live full-time in a vehicle or RV
  • You are active-duty military, a peace officer, a licensed hunter, or hunter education instructor
  • You are disabled, in which case you may use a locked soft-sided case for a handgun

When in doubt, follow the safe route and lock it up.

✅ How to Stay Compliant: Checklist

RequirementHandgunLong Gun
Locked hard-sided container✔️✔️
Locked soft-sided case + locking device❌✔️
Out of plain view✔️✔️
Container inside locked vehicle or trunk✔️✔️
Locking device on firearm (if soft case used)❌✔️

🧰 Correct and Incorrect Examples

  • Glock 19 stored in a locked case with cable attachment to a seat bracket under the seat of a locked car, completely out of view.
  • AR-15 with a cable lock installed, stored in a locked soft-sided rifle case, placed in the locked trunk of a sedan.

❌ Illegal Setup

  • Pistol tossed in a nylon holster under the driver’s seat.
  • Shotgun in a zippered case behind the front seat—no lock on the firearm, visible from the window.
  • Any firearm in an unlocked car, even if in a case.

🔐 Why This Law Matters

Colorado has seen a rise in gun thefts from parked cars. This law:

  • Helps prevent firearms from ending up on the street
  • Encourages secure storage among responsible gun owners
  • Reduces risk of access by children or prohibited individuals

If you carry for self-defense, you should also be serious about secure storage when you’re not in the vehicle.

CRS § 18‑12‑114.5 doesn’t prohibit you from keeping a firearm in your vehicle—it just tells you how to do it safely and legally.

Even if you’re parked for just a few minutes, failing to properly secure your firearm could cost you. The law is clear: locked case, locked vehicle, out of sight.

🔫 Need Help Staying Compliant?

We’ve got everything you need to store and carry responsibly:

  • 🛍️ Shop Secure Gear
    Browse lockable gun cases, cable locks, and trunk storage solutions
    → Visit the Shop
  • 📚 Take Our CCW Class
    Learn Colorado law, legal storage rules, and safe carry practices
    → Book Your Class
  • 🎯 Download Our Free Shooting Drills
    Build practical skills while you stay compliant
    → Get Free Drills
  • 🛡️ Get Covered with Self-Defense Insurance
    Protect yourself legally and financially if your firearm is stolen or used
    → See Coverage Options

🚘 Bottom Line: Don’t Just Carry Smart—Store Smart.

Locked up. Out of sight. Within the law.
Stay compliant with CRS § 18‑12‑114.5 and keep your rights protected.

The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed Carry Classes of Denver does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or current applicability of any legal statutes referenced. Firearm laws change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. It is your responsibility to consult official Colorado state resources or seek legal counsel to ensure compliance with current laws. By reading this article, you agree that Concealed Carry Classes of Denver and its affiliates are not liable for any actions taken based on the content herein.

Concealed Carry, Firearms Training, Legal & Law, News, Situational Awareness

The Average Gunfight: How Many Rounds, What Distance, and How Fast?

Mark Schneider

When most people imagine a gunfight, they think of something out of a movie—dozens of rounds fired across long distances in a drawn-out exchange. The reality, especially in civilian self-defense scenarios, looks very different. Whether you’re a CCW holder, armed security guard, or just serious about self-defense, understanding the real-world dynamics of an average gunfight is essential to training smart and staying alive.

How Many Rounds Are Typically Fired?

Studies and data consistently show that real-world gunfights involve far fewer rounds than you might expect:

  • Law Enforcement Encounters: According to the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) reports, the average number of rounds fired by officers in shooting incidents varies annually. For instance, in 2017, officers fired an average of 4.1 rounds per incident.
  • Civilian Self-Defense Cases: In a comprehensive five-year analysis of armed citizen encounters, it was found that defenders fired an average of 2 shots per incident. Notably, in situations where more than two shots were fired, it often appeared that the defender continued firing until their firearm was emptied.
  • Training Organization Data: Rangemaster, a prominent civilian defensive firearms training organization, reported that among 70 documented gunfights involving their alumni, the average number of rounds fired was about 4, with a range from 1 to 11 rounds per incident.

These numbers debunk the idea that more ammunition automatically makes you safer. While magazine capacity matters, accuracy and decision-making under pressure matter more.

At What Distance Do Most Gunfights Happen?

This may surprise you:

  • Close-Range Engagements: The widely cited “Rule of Threes” suggests that most gunfights occur at approximately 3 yards, involve 3 shots, and last about 3 seconds. This heuristic is supported by various law enforcement training materials and anecdotal evidence.
  • Law Enforcement Data: According to the FBI, offenders shot approximately 50.9% of officers within a distance of 0 to 5 feet. leb.fbi.gov
  • Variability in Distances: While close-range encounters are most common, there are documented instances of defensive shootings occurring at longer distances. For example, in the 2022 Greenwood Park Mall shooting, a civilian bystander engaged and neutralized an active shooter from a distance of 40 yards. en.wikipedia.org

So while it’s critical to master close-quarters shooting, it’s just as important not to neglect medium-range marksmanship in your training.

How Long Do Gunfights Last?

Almost all defensive shootings are over in seconds. Literally.

  • Average Duration: The “Rule of Threes” encapsulates this, indicating that many such encounters are resolved in approximately 3 seconds.
  • Rapid Resolution: For instance, in the 2019 Dayton shooting, law enforcement officers engaged and neutralized the shooter within 32 seconds of the first shots being fired. en.wikipedia.org

The takeaway? Your training should simulate that pressure: draw, shoot, move, and make life-or-death decisions in just a few seconds.

What This Means for Your Training

If you’re serious about concealed carry or working in armed security, your training should reflect these facts:

  • Train Close-Up: Most encounters happen inside 7 yards. Your first shot needs to be fast and accurate.
  • Train Under Stress: Practice with timers, movement, and decision-making. Create realistic scenarios, not just static range time.
  • Carry Enough Ammo—but Don’t Overthink It: If you have a spare magazine and can run your gun efficiently, you’re ahead of the curve.
  • Prepare Mentally: Learn how to recognize threats early, act decisively, and justify your actions legally and ethically.

Final Thoughts

The average gunfight is fast, close, and violent. There’s no warning bell, no time to fumble with your firearm, and no room for error. The more you align your training with the realities backed by hard data, the more prepared you’ll be to protect yourself and others.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult an attorney and follow local laws when carrying or using a firearm in self-defense.

Concealed Carry, Firearms Training, Guide, Legal & Law, News, Services

Common Questions From CCW Holders in Colorado

Mark Schneider

Your Go-To FAQ for Colorado Concealed Carry Law, CHP Permits, and Responsible Firearm Ownership

Whether you’re a new applicant or a long-time concealed carrier, you probably have questions—especially with Colorado’s laws changing in July 2025. As verified instructors, we’ve put together the most detailed and accurate FAQ available for CCW holders in the state. Let’s break it down:

📝 CHP Application & Renewal

❓ Do I Need to Take a Class to Get My CHP?

Yes. You must complete an 8-hour, in-person training class that includes:

  • Live-fire shooting (minimum 50 rounds)
  • A written exam (must score 70%+)
  • Instruction from a verified Colorado instructor

🔒 After July 1, 2025, online classes are no longer valid.

❓ What’s the Application Process?

StepWhat You Need
Training8-hour in-person class (valid 1 year)
IDValid Colorado photo ID
PhotoPassport-style photo
ApplicationCompleted at your county sheriff’s office
FeeUp to ~$152 depending on county
FingerprintsTaken at your appointment
Background CheckCBI + FBI check required
ProcessingUp to 90 days

❓ What About Renewals?

TopicDetails
Renewal PeriodUp to 120 days before expiration
Grace Period6 months after expiration (late fee may apply)
Expired 6+ MonthsMust reapply as a new applicant
New Requirements (7/1/25)2-hour refresher, live fire, written test
ID RequiredColorado driver’s license or ID
Late Fee~$15 in most counties

⚖ Use of Force Laws

❓ When Can I Use Deadly Force?

Under CRS 18-1-704 & 704.5:

  • Threat must be imminent
  • You cannot be the initial aggressor
  • Force must be proportional to the threat
  • Deadly force is only justified to prevent death or serious bodily harm

Deadly force is justified if stopping:

  • Murder or attempted murder
  • Sexual assault (active, not past or future)
  • Kidnapping
  • Robbery (with threat or weapon)
  • Aggravated assault
  • Burglary involving forced entry
  • First-degree arson posing threat to life

📍 Where Can and Can’t I Carry?

LocationCarry Allowed?
Denver City Buildings❌ No
Boulder Parks❌ No
CU/CSU Buildings❌ No
DIA Airport❌ No
K–12 School Grounds✅ In vehicle ONLY
Private Property Posted “No Guns”❌ No
Public Transit✅ With CHP
National Forests✅ Yes
Federal Buildings❌ No
Military Bases❌ Not without written authorization

🧠 Mental Health & CHP

❓ Will Mental Health Disqualify Me?

You may be denied a CHP if:

  • You were adjudicated mentally incompetent
  • Placed on a mental health hold
  • Committed to a mental institution

You can petition the court for restoration with documentation from a licensed provider.

🔫 Firearm & Permit Details

❓ How Many Guns Can I Carry?

There’s no legal limit on how many firearms you carry, as long as they are concealed and safely handled.

❓ Can I Carry with a Round in the Chamber?

Yes. All modern handguns are designed to be carried with a round chambered, using a proper holster.

❓ Can I Use Medical Marijuana and Still Have a CHP?

No. Marijuana use, even medical, disqualifies you under federal law. Lying on your CHP application may result in perjury charges.

❓ What Happens if I Lose My Permit?

You must report it and request a replacement from your county sheriff. A fee usually applies.

❓ Can I Carry at Work?

That depends on:

  • Employer policy
  • Whether it’s private or public property
  • If you keep it in your vehicle, it’s often allowed unless posted otherwise

❓ What if I Move to Another County or State?

  • New county: Notify sheriff’s office and renew with them
  • Out-of-state move: Your Colorado CHP becomes invalid

🚗 Firearm Transportation

TypeLegal?
Handgun (Loaded, Concealed in Car)✅ Yes
Long Gun (Loaded)❌ No – must be unloaded
Ammo in Same Case?✅ Legal, but not best practice
Gun Left in Car Unattended?✅ If it’s secured and not visible

🚫 Reasons for Denial

ReasonOutcome
Felony ConvictionLifetime ban
Domestic Violence MisdemeanorFederal disqualifier
Active Restraining OrderDisqualified until lifted
Lying on ApplicationConsidered perjury
Recent Alcohol/Drug OffensesDiscretionary denial

🧍 Situational Awareness & De-escalation

  • Avoid confrontations whenever possible
  • Always scan for exits and group behavior
  • Use strong body language and clear verbal direction
  • Don’t let ego override smart choices
  • Drawing your firearm is only for defense, not intimidation

📞 What Should I Say to 911 After a Shooting?

Say:

“There has been a shooting. I was attacked. I defended myself. Please send police and medical. I will cooperate and would like to speak to my attorney.”

Then say nothing else.

🧾 Common Procedural Questions

❓ Do I Have to Carry My Permit With Me?

Yes. You must carry both your CHP and valid ID while carrying.

❓ Can I Carry in a Bar or Restaurant?

Yes, but you may not be intoxicated while carrying. Stay below the legal limit.

❓ Can I Wear a Mask While Carrying?

Yes. Colorado law does not prohibit carrying with a face covering.

❓ Is There Magazine Capacity Limit?

Yes – 15 rounds. Possession of higher-capacity magazines is illegal unless lawfully owned before July 1, 2013. Proving that can be difficult, so we recommend using compliant mags only.

✅ Take the Next Step in Your CCW Journey