newish to the forum, been lurking for a few weeks

[Mixael]

As the title says, I'm a new poster, but I've been luring for a few weeks. Thought I'd throw a "Here I am" thread up as a first post.

First, let me say that I don't oc or cc. I have my reasons, and you can't change my mind---mainly because I have to wait until the end of September for my class.

I'm not new to firearms, but went for several years without one. Then, for my birthday last month, my wife and kids gave me the okay (and threw in some bucks) to let me purchase a new pistol. I spent a few days trying to decide if I wanted to get a CCW, and while looking up laws and perusing through forums, I found this one. I like it I also made the decision that I needed to go ahead and get my CCW. (BTW, I wasn't quite accurate when I said I don't carry yet...I carry at home, but can't carry in public yet.) I noticed that the classes are filling up FAST, and I need to wait longer than I had hoped.

I've looked at handgunlaw.us, and have read the laws from not only Oklahoma, but also the states that I general travel through. All of those honor Oklahoma's license, so I'm good on that point. I just haven't decided if I'm going to OC or CC the most. Rest assured, I will be doing both.

Now, for the "why" of deciding to get my CCW and begin carrying....I can say "because it's my right" (and that's true), but the very most important reason is that my family means more to me than I can express, and if I can protect them in time of need, I will. Not to mention the saying I've seen in so many places; "When seconds count, the police are only minutes away." I didn't arrive at the decision lightly. But, after making the decision, I know it is the RIGHT one. So, having said all this, I will close by saying hello, and well met, all you OCer's

 

[hrdware]

Welcome to the forum!! Lots of great information around here.

A couple other places for information you might look at:

http://okoca.org and the facebook page (should you have facebook) http://facebook.com/opencarryok

 

[ethorman]

Welcome!!

 

[twoskinsonemanns]

Welcome welcome!

It's a great feeling to know that I/we live in a state that has not yet taken away people's right to defend themselves and their family. I feel deeply as you do the responsibility to protect your loved ones, especially my little one. Exerciser that right! Always carry.

Visit and post often!

 

[okiebryan]

Then, for my birthday last month, my wife and kids gave me the okay (and threw in some bucks) to let me purchase a new pistol.

What did you end up purchasing?

I spent a few days trying to decide if I wanted to get a CCW, and while looking up laws and perusing through forums, I found this one. I like it I also made the decision that I needed to go ahead and get my CCW. (BTW, I wasn't quite accurate when I said I don't carry yet...I carry at home, but can't carry in public yet.) I noticed that the classes are filling up FAST, and I need to wait longer than I had hoped.

Just so that you know, (and I'm not suggesting you break the law) in Oklahoma, carrying a loaded handgun concealed in your car without a permit is not "unlawful carry". It's "improper carry", for which the penalty is a $70ish ticket. No arrest, no confiscation so long as you are not committing another crime other than a traffic offense. There's also the 4th amendment to consider. "Officer, I don't consent to searches, I don't want to answer any questions. Am I free to leave?"

Welcome to the forum. I hope that you will find this place to be a great resource, without some of the drama that exists on some other local boards.

 

[Mixael]

I've visited the okoca site And I've been hanging around here at LEAST once a day I *DO* have Facebook, but rarely use it. I will check out the page, though.

And thank you for the warm welcome, everyone.

I must have missed the part about unlicensed (loaded) carry in vehicles. Gonna have to go back and read the law closer, it would seem. I had more to write, but got distracted for a minute, and don't remember what it was. Have a great and wonderful day!

ETA: Almost forgot to answer okiebryan's question about what I got I bought a S&W M&P9 FS. So far I'm loving it! Still working on a comfy holster for it. The one I got right after getting the gun (a inexpensive Uncle Mike's) wasn't "right". Not sure I can explain that, though. I got a Blackhawk CQC, and that one seems to be comfortable enough, and "feels" good when I have it on. If only someone would send me every holster made for the M&P9 to test, I could find THE right one for me. Since I doubt that will happen, I'll stick with what I have.

 

[Pistol Packin' Honey]

Welcome!
You made the right decision.