USCCA Firearms & Self-Defense Blog
Legal & Second Amendment
Uncover the rules governing the legal use of force in self-defense, get tips on how to practice safe and legal concealed carry, and stay up-to-date on firearms-related legislation at both the state and national levels—especially as it relates to the Second Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms.
More Articles
How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re considering carrying a firearm for personal protection, one of the first questions you may have is whether you need a concealed carry permit. The answer depends largely on where you live.…
Continue Reading →Guns in the News — 2026
Firearms-related headlines continue to shape public conversation and policy discussions across the country. Each month, we’ll gather the notable stories involving firearms, self-defense and the…
Continue Reading →Can You Carry a Gun Without a Permit? Constitutional Carry Explained
The short answer is yes … in some states. Whether you can legally carry a firearm without a permit depends on the laws where you are carrying. Today, many states have adopted constitutional carry,…
Continue Reading →What Is Stand Your Ground Law? States & Self-Defense Rules
There is probably no legislation that evokes as much emotion as “stand your ground” laws. While they may vary in details from state to state, these self-defense laws generally remove the requirement…
Continue Reading →Which States Have Assault Weapons Bans?
A popular misnomer among gun-control activists about the AR-15 rifle is that the AR stands for “assault rifle.” Never mind the lack of definition that constitutes what an “assault rifle” is, AR is short for ArmaLite rifle, a name referring to the manufacturer of the firearm in the 1950s.
Continue Reading →Should You Shoot a Warning Shot? The Legal Risks of Warning Shots in Self-Defense
Should I shoot a warning shot is a common self-defense question. It may seem like a reasonable middle ground. You avoid shooting another person while still convincing an attacker to back down. But…
Continue Reading →Freedom Requires Responsibility: Habits of Responsible Gun Owners
There’s nothing Americans love more than freedom, but someone has to say it: with freedom comes responsibility. Not to worry, though. Responsibility isn’t all homework and early bedtimes.…
Continue Reading →United States v. Hemani: Pot, Powder, Pistols and the Past Collide
Key Takeaway: The Supreme Court held that the federal government cannot automatically disarm every unlawful drug user based solely on status. But Hemani did not erase 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), and…
Continue Reading →Gun Rights of Marijuana Users: Federal and State Laws for Concealed Carriers
2026 Update: United States v. Hemani Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. That means if you use cannabis — even legally under state law — you may be prohibited from owning or possessing a…
Continue Reading →What Is the National Firearms Act? NFA History, Regulations and Legal Challenges
Editor’s Note: NFA laws, ATF procedures and court challenges can change. This article is intended for general informational purposes only. Always confirm current requirements through ATF.gov or…
Continue Reading →Virginia’s New Gun Laws: What Gun Owners Need to Know in 2026
Virginia is once again at the center of the gun-control debate. With a new governor and full Democratic control of state government, lawmakers have pushed through one of the most sweeping packages of…
Continue Reading →Traveling With a Firearm: Gun Laws, Road Trips, Flights and State Lines
Got questions about traveling with a gun in your vehicle, checked luggage or across state lines? You’re not alone. Whether you’re headed across the state or across the country, planning a road trip…
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