Is Missouri a Open Carry Gun State?
Missouri is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic natural beauty. But is it also a state where you can openly carry guns? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of Missouri’s gun laws and explore what it means to be an open carry gun state.
The Short Answer
Missouri is a shall-issue state, which means that law enforcement agencies are required to issue a concealed carry permit to any eligible applicant. However, Missouri is also a constitutional carry state, which means that residents are allowed to carry a firearm without a permit, as long as they are at least 19 years old and not a prohibited person.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
Before we dive into the specifics of Missouri’s gun laws, it’s important to understand the difference between open carry and concealed carry.
- Open Carry: This is when an individual carries a firearm in a visible manner, such as in a holster on their belt or in a visible bag.
- Concealed Carry: This is when an individual carries a firearm in a hidden manner, such as in a pocket or purse.
Missouri’s Open Carry Laws
In Missouri, residents are allowed to openly carry a firearm as long as they are not prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- No Permit Required: In Missouri, you don’t need a permit to openly carry a firearm.
- No Restrictions on Places: Missouri law does not restrict where you can openly carry a firearm, as long as you are not prohibited from entering the area.
- Common Carrier Exception: Missouri law prohibits the open carry of firearms on common carriers, such as buses and trains.
Constitutional Carry
Missouri became a constitutional carry state in 2017, which means that residents are no longer required to obtain a permit to carry a concealed firearm. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- No Permit Required: In Missouri, you don’t need a permit to carry a concealed firearm.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 19 years old to carry a concealed firearm in Missouri.
- Prohibited Persons: Certain individuals, such as felons and mentally unstable individuals, are prohibited from carrying a concealed firearm in Missouri.
Table: Missouri’s Gun Laws
| Law | Description | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | No permit required, no restrictions on places | |
| Concealed Carry | No permit required, age 19+, no prohibited persons | |
| Common Carrier Exception | No open carry on common carriers | |
| Prohibited Persons | Certain individuals prohibited from carrying firearms |
Implications for Missouri Residents
So what does this mean for Missouri residents? Here are some key implications to keep in mind:
- Increased Freedom: With the passage of constitutional carry, Missouri residents have more freedom to carry firearms, both openly and concealed.
- Increased Responsibility: With this increased freedom comes increased responsibility. Missouri residents are still subject to the same laws and regulations regarding firearms, and they are still responsible for ensuring that they are not prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm.
- Potential Consequences: While Missouri law does not restrict where you can openly carry a firearm, there may be potential consequences for doing so. For example, you may be asked to leave a business or area if you are openly carrying a firearm.
Conclusion
Missouri is a state where you can openly carry guns, as long as you are not prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. The state is also a constitutional carry state, which means that residents are no longer required to obtain a permit to carry a concealed firearm. While this increased freedom comes with increased responsibility, it also provides Missouri residents with more flexibility and autonomy when it comes to their firearms.
