Tag: Concealed Carry Class Denver

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law

How to Legally Defend Someone Else in Colorado

Mark Schneider

If you’re a concealed carry permit holder, armed citizen, or security professional in Colorado, you’ve likely asked yourself: Can I legally defend someone else if they’re being attacked? The answer is yes — but only under certain circumstances.

Colorado law allows the use of force in defense of others, but just like with self-defense, there are limits. You can’t step in just because something “feels wrong.” You need to meet specific legal requirements — or you risk facing criminal charges, even if your intentions were good.

Colorado’s Legal Standard: Defense of Others

Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-1-704, you are justified in using physical force or deadly force on behalf of another person if that person would have been legally justified in using that force to protect themselves.

In plain English:

You must “stand in their shoes.” If they had the right to use force, you can act on their behalf — but no more than they legally could have.

The AOJ Triangle: Ability, Opportunity, Jeopardy

Before intervening, use the AOJ framework — the same used in courtrooms and law enforcement:

  • Ability – Does the attacker have the physical power or weapon to cause serious harm?
  • Opportunity – Are they close enough or positioned to carry out that threat?
  • Jeopardy – Is the victim in imminent danger right now?

If all three are present, defensive action may be justified.

When It’s Not Justified

You are not justified if:

  • The person you’re defending was the initial aggressor
  • You use more force than the situation calls for
  • You step in without understanding what actually happened
  • The threat has already ended (retreating attacker, person is safe, etc.)

Real-World Example: People v. Guenther

In People v. Guenther, the defendant intervened in a domestic dispute, believing a woman was in danger. He used deadly force — but the court ruled it wasn’t justified, because the threat had ended. Timing and perception matter. Even if your heart is in the right place, you can’t legally escalate a situation that’s already de-escalated.

What to Do Instead of Jumping In

  • Call 911 immediately
  • Gather information – Who’s the aggressor? What’s happening?
  • Give verbal commands (if safe): “Back away!” “I’m calling the police!”
  • Use force only if someone is in imminent danger and you are trained to do so

Final Thoughts: Train for Reality

Defending others is one of the most serious decisions you can make with a firearm. It requires training, good judgment, and a deep understanding of the law. That’s why we cover these real-life scenarios and legal frameworks in every concealed carry class we teach.

The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Concealed Carry Classes of Denver LLC, its instructors, owners, and affiliates are not attorneys and do not provide legal representation. Laws may change and vary by jurisdiction, and interpretations can depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal guidance regarding use-of-force, self-defense, or firearms-related incidents in your area.

News

Colorado’s New Gun Control Law: Understanding the Impact

Mark Schneider
Photo Credit: Jesse Paul/The Colorado Sun

On April 10, 2025, Governor Jared Polis signed a sweeping new gun control law into effect, targeting law-abiding Coloradans who wish to purchase semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. Beginning August 1, 2026, you’ll be forced to take mandatory, state-approved training before you can legally buy a semi-auto firearm that millions of Americans already own responsibly.

They’re calling it a “public safety” law — but let’s be honest. That’s bullshit. This has nothing to do with safety and everything to do with control.

❗ What the Law Actually Requires

Under the new law, Colorado residents must take a state-mandated Firearm Safety Course from a Verified Instructor — a title and approval process now controlled by the government.

To legally purchase a semiautomatic firearm, you must complete one of the following:

  • ✅ A 10-hour Hunter Safety Course plus a 4-hour Firearm Safety Course taught by a Verified Instructor, or
  • ✅ A 2-day, 12-hour Firearm Safety Course taught entirely by a Verified Instructor

Renewals require a 4-hour refresher course, also taught by a Verified Instructor.

🕒 Existing Gun Control Laws Are Already Burdensome

Let’s not forget: Colorado already has a 3-day waiting period on all firearm purchases — that’s been law since 2023.

And we’ve had a 15-round magazine capacity limit in place since July 1, 2013.

These laws haven’t stopped criminals — but they’ve made legal gun ownership slower, harder, and more frustrating for responsible citizens who follow the rules.

Now the state wants to stack more red tape on top.

💸 A De Facto Gun Tax — With a New 6% Squeeze

This new law adds even more cost and complexity to exercising a fundamental right. Between the mandatory training, time off work, range fees, background checks, and the 3-day wait, you’re now paying hundreds if not thousands of dollars and losing days of your life just to legally purchase a firearm.

And it doesn’t stop there.

In 2024, Colorado voters — many of whom were unaware of the real impact — approved a 6% tax on all firearm and ammunition sales.

That money is supposed to go toward “violence prevention programs.” But let’s be real — it’ll likely end up in the hands of some politically connected nonprofit that lobbied for the bill and now gets a taxpayer-funded payday.

They’re not taxing criminals. They’re taxing you — the law-abiding citizen trying to do everything right.

And it hits hardest for:

  • Working-class Coloradans
  • Single parents
  • Minority communities
  • First-time gun owners who need protection the most

Meanwhile, criminals — who don’t take classes, wait three days, or pay taxes — are unaffected.

🧠 The Second Amendment Doesn’t Require a Permission Slip

There is no historical tradition of requiring government training and permission to exercise your rights. The Founders didn’t require a license to bear arms — and neither should we.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Bruen made it clear: gun laws must align with the historical tradition of the Second Amendment.

This law doesn’t pass that test. It fails it — badly.

⚖️ Expect Legal Challenges

Several gun rights organizations have already signaled their intent to challenge this law in court. And for good reason — it’s unconstitutional.

These are the groups leading the charge:

We support them all — and you should too.

🔒 A Slippery Slope You Can’t Ignore

This isn’t just about one bill. It’s about setting the stage for more restrictions.

What’s next?

  • Mental health screenings?
  • Gun registries?
  • Total bans on semiautomatics?

This is how liberty dies — one “common sense” restriction at a time.

👊 We’re Ready — And We’ve Got Your Back

If the law stays in place, we’ll be ready to help you meet the training requirements without breaking the bank.

At Concealed Carry Classes of Denver, we’ll offer:

  • ✔️ Both approved course formats
  • ✔️ Competitive pricing
  • ✔️ Certification upon completion
  • ✔️ Experienced, pro–2A Verified Instructors

👉 Click here to learn more and reserve your spot

🛡️ Legal Protection Is Just As Important

Training is only one part of being a responsible gun owner. If you ever have to defend yourself, you’ll need a legal defense team.

👉 Compare self-defense insurance plans here so you’re covered before something happens.

🔚 Final Thoughts

This law won’t stop crime. It won’t make anyone safer. But it will make it harder for everyday Coloradans to defend themselves.

We’re not here to comply. We’re here to train, educate, and fight back.

The Second Amendment wasn’t written with fine print. It wasn’t meant to be “convenient.” It was meant to guarantee freedom — and that’s exactly what we’re fighting for.

We’re not backing down. Neither should you.

Legal & Law

Can You Open Carry in Colorado State Parks?

Mark Schneider

If you’re a gun owner in Colorado, you may be wondering whether you can carry your firearm openly while enjoying the state’s beautiful parks. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just spending the day outdoors, understanding the laws around carrying firearms in state parks is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about open carry in Colorado State Parks.

Open Carry Laws in Colorado

In Colorado, open carry of firearms is generally legal, but there are important exceptions and restrictions that you should be aware of, especially in specific places like state parks. State law allows individuals who are legally allowed to possess firearms to open carry in most public areas, including state parks. However, the rules and regulations for carrying firearms may differ when it comes to specific park areas or activities.

Colorado State Parks and Firearms

WYes — Colorado allows you to carry a firearm in state parks, but there are rules you need to follow. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just enjoying the outdoors, it’s important to understand what’s legal, what’s not, and how to carry responsibly.

Concealed Carry in State Parks

If you hold a valid Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), you are legally allowed to carry a concealed handgun in all Colorado state parks. This includes areas like trails, campgrounds, and public restrooms, unless otherwise posted.

Concealed carry is generally the best option for outdoor environments. It avoids unwanted attention, minimizes public concern, and gives you flexibility to defend yourself discreetly.

✅ Need a permit?
Take our Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit Class. It includes live-fire qualification and meets the latest legal requirements under CRS § 18-12-202.5.

Open Carry in State Parks

Open carry of a handgun is also allowed in most Colorado state parks. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Some parks may post signs restricting open carry in certain areas.
  • You cannot carry openly in federally managed buildings or locations within the park system.
  • Open carry may alarm other visitors and could lead to unwanted attention or contact with law enforcement.

For most people, concealed carry remains the safer and more practical choice.

Carrying in Your Vehicle

Colorado law allows you to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle without a CHP. As long as you are legally allowed to own a firearm and it’s for personal protection, no permit is required.

What’s legal:

  • Loaded handgun stored anywhere in your vehicle (e.g., glovebox, console, under seat).
  • No permit required for handguns in your vehicle.

What’s not legal:

  • Carrying a loaded rifle or shotgun in your vehicle — the chamber must be empty.
  • Leaving a handgun unattended in plain sight.

🔐 New Law Effective Jan 1, 2025:
If you leave a handgun unattended in your vehicle, it must be stored in a locked, hard-sided container and kept out of plain view, per CRS § 18-12-114.5.

Alcohol and Firearms

Carrying a firearm while under the influence of alcohol is illegal in Colorado. If you plan to drink while camping or picnicking:

  • Store your firearm unloaded and in a secure, locked location.
  • Do not carry a loaded firearm on your person while drinking.

Even if you have a CHP, you can be arrested and lose your permit for violating this law.

Wildlife Protection and Outdoor Carry

Many Colorado residents carry in state parks to protect themselves from wildlife threats like bears or mountain lions. This is legal and reasonable—but it’s no substitute for preparation.

  • Carry bear spray in addition to your firearm.
  • Know how to safely draw and operate your firearm with outdoor gear on.
  • Study defensive shooting techniques specific to unpredictable terrain and lighting.

🎯 Want to train for real-world situations?
Check out our Free Shooting Drills and build the skills you’ll need if things go sideways in the wilderness.

Federal Land vs. State Parks

Some areas inside or near state parks may be federally managed, such as:

  • National monuments
  • Wildlife refuges
  • Certain trail systems

Federal law overrides state law in these areas. If you carry where it’s prohibited, even with a CHP, you could face federal charges.

Always check:

  • Park signs at entrances
  • Official websites or ranger stations
  • Management boundaries for mixed-jurisdiction parks

Public Perception and Carry Etiquette

Just because you can carry doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use judgment. If you’re openly carrying a handgun in a public park:

  • Use a proper holster that secures the firearm
  • Keep your hands off the firearm unless needed
  • Be polite and aware of your surroundings

Concealed carry is generally preferred because it avoids causing alarm to other visitors.

Summary

You can legally carry a firearm in Colorado state parks — both concealed and openly — as long as you follow state and federal laws. You do not need a permit to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle for personal protection, but open carry and carry while drinking come with restrictions. Be smart, stay trained, and carry responsibly.

What to Do Next

🔫 Get Certified to Carry Legally
Take our Colorado Concealed Carry Class and walk away with your certificate and the knowledge you need to carry responsibly.

🎯 Train With Real-World Drills
Download our Free Shooting Drills designed for concealed carriers and armed citizens. Perfect for range days or home dry-fire practice.

🛍️ Get the Gear You Actually Need
Visit our Online Shop for reliable holsters, mag pouches, and range gear that won’t let you down in the field.

🛡️ Protect Yourself Legally
A defensive shooting could cost you thousands—even if justified. Compare plans on our Self-Defense Insurance Guide and get covered.

⚖️ Legal Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Firearm laws are subject to change and may vary by jurisdiction. Always verify current laws with official state or federal resources, or consult with a qualified attorney. Concealed Carry Classes of Denver and its affiliates are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information contained in this article.