Although Texas passed a law legalizing the open carry of handguns last year, January 1, 2016 was the much-anticipated date that the rights to openly carry a firearm in Texas became effective. As part of the Texas open carry law, weapons must be carried on a shoulder or belt holster, and you must be licensed by Texas or a corresponding state. You may feel unsure about proper safety measures for using, handling, or carrying your firearm. Universal Safety & Security Solutions (USSS) offers firearms training to prepare you for an emergency situation.
Keep these tips in mind when carrying your handgun in Texas.
Be Trigger Conscious
Keep your finger off the trigger – do not touch the trigger until the moment you are ready to shoot. Rest your finger along the side of the gun or on the trigger guard. Accidents can happen due to unawareness with the positioning of your fingers.
Know Your Target and Surroundings
When you’re ready to shoot, be aware of not only your target but its surroundings as well. Bullets go through and beyond just your target. Look around and take in everything before aiming. You may intend to shoot at a particular target but end up also hitting other people in the process.
Store Your Gun Inaccessible To Others
The Texas open carry law may have you uncertain about safety precautions with storing your handgun, but there are many options available. Storage devices–both locked and unlocked–are one choice. For those who want a more accessible locking option, there are devices that attach directly to your gun. Whatever your preference, having your gun out of sight and obtainability of others are a key to safety. You don’t want a firearm getting into the hands of a perpetrator.
Use A Holster
As mentioned previously, the new Texas open carry law requires licensed individuals to carry their firearm in a holster. You can use a shoulder or belt holster to keep your gun attached. You can also use a leg holster, provided it attaches to the belt. Although retention holsters are not required, they are recommended to better keep your firearm secure while carrying a handgun openly or concealed. You can also use an inside-the-waistband holster if attaches to the belt. Bottom line, make sure you have a holster when open carrying even if it’s in your pocket, appendix or small of your back.
Texas Open Carry Law Allows Gun Prohibition
Business and private property owners are not required to allow open or concealed carrying of handguns. However, they are required by law to provide appropriate signage on its property. Before entering a building, look for signs posted on entrances and exits displaying the prevention of carrying on property grounds. Contrasting colors, letters at least an inch tall and a 38-word message in English and Spanish are required elements of signs. If you see this, secure your handgun elsewhere before entering.
Read more about which Texas businesses have opted out of the new Open Carry Law.
The newly enforced Texas open carry law can raise uncertainties for many people. However, remember to follow these tips before leaving your house with a handgun. Also consider taking firearms training to ensure safety and proper use.
We are Your Texas Open Carry Resource
Contact USSS today to take classes on basic education, personal protection, safety, firearm selection, shooting, cleaning, storing, carrying a firearm, use of deadly force and how to safely deploy your weapon in an emergency situation. Advanced training is also available which includes tactical firearms selection and methods.