Mark has always been a stand-up guy.  Never had an issue with the authorities, not even a speeding ticket!  About a year ago he was tasked with implementing a security team at his church due to swelling social tensions in his local area.  Mark had never really gotten into firearms before, but he genuinely had a concern for the safety of his pastor and the congregation.  In this light, he decided to purchase his first gun, IWB holster, and apply for his Concealed Carry Weapons Permit.  Being in Georgia, firearm possession is more lax than other states so he immediately became comfortable with possession and carry.

In July, his pastor was traveling to New Jersey for a visit and requested that Mark accompany him personally.  Mark was excited about the trip and of course he packed his Glock 19.  Getting through security in Atlanta was no problem and the trip to New Jersey went off without hitch.  When packing up to return to Atlanta, Mark did exactly what he had done preparing for the trip.  His gun was packed into his luggage to be checked at the airport.  Mark and his pastor arrived at Newark Liberty for their return flight on-time and proceeded to enter the security gates.  After finally getting their shoes, belts, and watches back on they stopped at Hudson News for a quick snack and proceeded to their departure gate.

Normally, when at the airport, you rarely hear the announcements unless they call your name or flight number.  Strangely enough, Mark heard his name on the loud speaker and seconds later he saw several TSA agents coming towards his gate.  Minutes after that, Mark found himself the owner of a new set of silver bracelets (hand-cuffs) and a new ending destination (a local holding cell), waiting to be processed.

—-Being licensed to carry in your state means that you are well aware of and responsible for knowing all laws locally and when traveling with your firearm.—-  Unfortunately, when you cross state lines with your firearm, you immediately take on all responsibility in its totality.  In states with more strict firearms laws the penalties can be quite cost prohibitive and most definitely will include some jail time.  Guys……please be clear:  “Officer…I promise I didn’t know” will NOT fly if you are caught in possession of a firearm in a restricted area.

With that being said, if you decide to travel with a firearm (by plane, train, car, boat, spaceship, etc….) please familiarize yourself with any and all local laws as it pertains to firearm possession.  If….not this story could be about you instead of Mark……

For more information of firearms laws by state, click here.

***  If you are unfamiliar with firearms and/or their accessories, and want to learn more, PSA strongly suggests that you find, enroll, and attend a comprehensive and reputable firearms safety course. Firearms safety is all of OUR responsibility.  

We want to thank you for taking out the time to stop by our lane at the shooting range!!  We hope that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you stop back by early and often to catch up on all PSA updates!  We truly hope that we were able to hit the target, and if you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot them our way!!  We look forward to shooting the breeze with you soon again!!

And as always….remember to watch your six and stay low!!!