We live in America. People can, and should, like different things. That’s what we’re about here, isn’t it? For that reason, I’m not one to get too upset if someone approaches me and says that they’re not fond of firearms.

I’m not going to lie, the thought typically runs through my head, “They must need a range day – I bet they just were never taught how much fun responsible firearm ownership can be.” So that part makes me want to give them that experience. But again, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. 

Through my eyes, even if you are not fond of firearms, you should still get your MN Permit to Carry a Pistol (otherwise known as Carry Permit or Concealed Carry Permit). Here’s why:

1. You don’t have the choice until you have your permit.

In the state of Minnesota, it is illegal to carry a pistol (handgun) unless you have your permit. Yes, there are exceptions to that. For example, you don’t need a permit in Minnesota to carry a handgun in your own home or on your own property. Here are the details if you want to look into that further.

Since it’s not legal to carry a handgun without a permit, you don’t have a choice on whether you want to use this tool to protect yourself and your family. Even if you don’t like guns, it’s nice to have the choice. It’s nice to not be boxed in to one option. It’s nice to excersize your rights.

2. Is education ever really a bad thing?

Gaining more knowlege on firearms, how they operate, and what you can and cannot do with them as a permit holder is not a bad thing. It might actually offer you some insight as to why folks who like firearms get so dang excited about them. 

Using firearms in a personal defense capacity is no laughing matter and that’s what the MN Permit to Carry course focuses on. All the more reason to get your permit and learn more about the risks of choosing this tool as your last personal defense option.

3. Hey, it might actually be fun.

You meet a lot of great people by taking a MN Permit to Carry course. There are folks from all different backgrounds, skill levels and opinions. It’s interesting to see how each person takes the information in and processes it. 

Not only do you meet great people, but you get to shoot! And shooting is always fun! You also have instructors there to guide you the entire way so if you have a question regarding how something works or what you can change to be better, you have those knowledgable folks there to help you.