In response to the new Ohio concealed carry law, extended education is being offered on top of the past training to carry a concealed weapon.
The law was amended on Jan 1, 2004 and allows county sheriffs to issue licenses to carry concealed handguns with 12 hours of training. Training is not required if the applicant has attended classes within the past three years. This applies as long as the training was done by a certified instructor.
“Carrying a concealed handgun is a privilege in Ohio, and with this privilege comes a responsibility to be aware, not only of the common sense rules of safe firearm handling, but the laws that affect how, when and where you can carry your firearm, and how to properly use the handgun to defend yourself or another person,” said Attorney General Jim Petro on his web page.
BGSU’s concealed carry classes will allow residents to gain the knowledge necessary to handle a concealed hand gun. The class is taught by certified instructors.
The class will total the required 12 hours. There will be a 10-hour classroom portion that will cover safe handling and storage, safe ammunition handling, shooting techniques and laws relating to deadly force. Participants will then complete the two-hour range time requirement.
Upon successful completion of written and live fire tests, participants will receive the required State of Ohio pamphlet and certificate allowing them to apply for a permit. They will also receive and National Rifle Association basic shooting certificate. Janet Womack, director of the classes said that because of the new law, continuing and extended education saw a need for the service.
“We know there is a need in the community for this and we have and we have wonderful instructors that can provide this service,” said Womack.
So far there has been a lot of interest in the program. April and May classes are almost filled, but there is still room.
“The response has been successful,” said Womack.
BGSU’s concealed carry classes meet twice a week for two weeks from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the College Park office building. Classes are scheduled for Mondays and Wednesdays, April 19, 21, 26 and 28; Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 4, 6, 11 and 13; Monday and Wednesdays, May 17, 19, 24 and 26. Range times will be scheduled separately and will take place at the shooting range at the Wood County fair grounds.
The fee for the class is $149, but a special introductory discount is being offered for 10 percent off for BGSU community members. The discount will only be applied to the three currently scheduled classes.
Anyone over 21 can apply for a permit and enroll in classes. To register for classes call 214-8181 or toll free at 1-877-650-8165. Concealed weapons are not permitted on campus.
