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.
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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…
Continue Reading →Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Traveling Across State Lines
Key Takeaway: Concealed carry reciprocity determines whether another state recognizes your concealed carry permit. Reciprocity laws vary widely across the country, making it essential for responsibly…
Continue Reading →Digital Footprint: How Your Smartphone Can Be Used Against You
When I was 10 years old, my Aunt Naomi gave me a lined book for Christmas. It had no words in it, and I asked her what it was. She told me it was my diary and that I could write down thoughts there…
Continue Reading →What Happens After a Self-Defense Shooting: A Step-by-Step Guide
Key Takeaways: Call 911 as soon as it is safe, request police and medical assistance, and avoid disturbing potential evidence unless necessary for safety. Expect a police investigation. You may be…
Continue Reading →What Are Red Flag Laws? How ERPOs Work and What They Mean for Gun Owners
In some states, someone can petition a court to temporarily take your firearms, even if you haven’t been charged with a crime. This recent trend in state firearms legislation has been making waves…
Continue Reading →Guns Bills and Firearm Laws to Watch in 2026
Key Takeaway: Several federal and state firearm bills could significantly affect gun owners in 2026. From permit-to-purchase requirements and assault weapon bans to extreme risk protection orders and…
Continue Reading →Which States Allow Constitutional Carry?
In 2022, four states — Alabama, Ohio, Indiana and Georgia — passed constitutional carry or permitless carry laws, making them the 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th states to do so. Subsequently, in April…
Continue Reading →Gun Magazine Capacity Laws by State: Complete Guide
Fourteen states and the District of Columbia have magazine-capacity restrictions that range from 10 to 20 rounds of ammunition. Politicians have passed magazine capacity bans because they believe…
Continue Reading →How to Carry Across State Lines Legally: Non-Resident vs. Resident Concealed Carry Permits
Understanding the diverse landscape of concealed carry permits is crucial for responsible gun owners. If you carry a firearm for self-defense, your responsibility doesn’t stop at your state line. The…
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