Monday letters: SC concealed-weapons course teaches gun carriers responsibilities

The bill in the S.C. Senate to remove the training requirement for the concealed weapons permit permit is totally misguided.

I am a permit holder, an NRA-certified pistol instructor, and a 110 percent supporter of the U.S. Constitution. But I have seen abject fear in the eyes of firearms purchasers who believe the mere possession of a firearm in their home is the right answer.

These people often cannot load or unload their firearm, and they do not understand the basic laws of concealed carry or the immense legal liability they face because they have had no training.

The concealed weapons training I went through was superb. South Carolina’s requirements are not a burden to a firearm owner.

Seven hours of classroom instruction on laws, reciprocity, firearm operation and how to interact with police in an official capacity are absolutely lifesavers, not burdens.

The required hour of actually shooting 50 rounds at various distances is barely adequate, but at least it’s a start on firearm safety.

The Second Amendment defines a critical right for U.S. citizens, but with every right comes associated responsibilities.

Training in the use of a firearm you wish to carry concealed is just such a responsibility.

Columbia

This story was originally published June 14, 2015 at 10:00 PM with the headline "Monday letters: SC concealed-weapons course teaches gun carriers responsibilities."