Open carry means carrying a firearm in public in a way that is visible to other people rather than concealed. The exact legal rules for open carry vary significantly by country, state, and local jurisdiction.
Because firearm laws can change and differ by location, anyone considering carrying a firearm should check the current laws that apply to their specific location.
What Is Open Carry?
The term open carry generally describes the visible carrying of a firearm in public.
For example, if a firearm is carried in a manner where other people can clearly see it, that may be considered open carry under the applicable law.
This differs from concealed carry, where the firearm is intentionally hidden from ordinary view.
Open Carry vs Concealed Carry
The basic difference is visibility.
Open carry: The firearm is carried visibly.
Concealed carry: The firearm is carried hidden from ordinary view.
The legal definitions can be more specific, so the exact rules depend on the jurisdiction.
Is Open Carry Legal?
There is no single answer for every location.
Some jurisdictions allow certain forms of open carry, while others restrict or prohibit it. Some places may require a permit or license, while others have additional restrictions.
There can also be restrictions on carrying firearms in particular locations.
Where Can Open Carry Be Restricted?
Depending on local law, restrictions may apply to places such as:
- Government buildings
- Schools
- Courthouses
- Certain private properties
- Airports
- Public events
- Other designated locations
The rules differ by jurisdiction.
Why Is Open Carry Different From Concealed Carry?
Open carry makes the firearm visible, while concealed carry is intended to keep it hidden.
Because the legal requirements can differ between these methods, someone cannot assume that permission for one automatically means permission for the other.
What Does Open Carry Mean in Everyday Conversation?
When someone says they “open carry,” they generally mean that they legally or intentionally carry a firearm in public where it is visible.
However, whether the behavior is lawful depends on the local laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does open carry mean?
Open carry generally means carrying a firearm publicly in a visible manner.
What is the opposite of open carry?
The commonly used opposite term is concealed carry, where the firearm is hidden from ordinary view.
Is open carry legal everywhere?
No. Firearm-carry laws vary by jurisdiction, and some places impose significant restrictions.
Conclusion
Open carry means carrying a firearm in public where it is visible rather than concealed. The legal requirements vary widely, so the definition should not be confused with a universal statement about whether carrying is permitted.
