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CHL / CCW

CHL (Concealed Handgun License) or CCW refer to the lawful carry of concealed weapons (pistols) by citizens. The basic idea is that lawful citizens have the right (duty, I'd say) to protect themselves and their loved ones from lawless attackers.

Texas CHL

Texas allows concealed carry for licensees. If you're thinking about getting a CHL, here is the basic process:
  1. request a application packet from the DPS
  2. take the class (pass the written and shooting tests)
  3. within 6 mos. of the passed course, submit your packet and $140 (!)
  4. wait.... in theory for ~60 days (and hope for no paperwork-related kickbacks)
  5. get the license or get a denial

Attitude readjustment

Quite different from public perception, CHL carry in public means the carrier is more restricted in behaviour and attitude, not less so:
You just lost the right to flip off the motorist who just cut you off in traffic. You have to ignore the scumbag who just "wolf-whistled" at your wife/girlfriend. If someone wants to pick a fight with you, you lost the right to respond in any way other than a kind, friendly manner while walking away. As an armed person you must be more likely and willing to avoid trouble that an unarmed person would be. You have the legal and moral obligation of de-escalating any situation that you are presented with unless you are faced by someone displaying all three of the attack potential wlements. Carrying a loaded firearm among your fellow citizens is an awesome responsibility that is not to be taken lightly. Remember, once you strap on your weapon, you must carry with it a great measure of discretion and judgement, along with an easy-going attitude. (David A Laneve)

My CHL adventure

Right after the CHL went into effect (1997?) I took and passed the courses, but couldn't scrape up the $140 in the allotted 6 months.

By September 2000 I had squirreled away enough to pay for the course, the application, etc. I took the CHL course at Texas Handgun Academy on the 23rd. (94/100 written, 240/250 shooting with the Ruger P95). I submitted my packet by certified mail on the 25th. Received CHL on Nov 13, 2000.

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