By David Freeman
Texas law requires a curriculum for potential Concealed Handgun License holders that covers much of what you need to know to carry a firearm safely and legally, and the Texas CHL curriculum goes into more detail than the programs in many other states. Within the limited time we have available, we at Texas Gun Pros try to add more in the area of practical aspects of carrying a concealed handgun than the law requires. In reality, it’s an area that requires an ongoing focus of attention.
I like to break down the things you need to know into three major areas:
- You must know the law where you are carrying. This may or may not be your home state. When traveling, you need to familiarize yourself with the laws in the states you’ll be passing through or spending time in. As a minimum you need to know:
- When and where you can carry
- The use of force and deadly force
- What’s expected of a CHL holder during a traffic stop
- You must know you can stop an assailant without harming innocent people. This involves being observent and careful, being proficient with your handgun and having the right ammunition as a minimum.
- You must know what to do after a shooting incident. This includes calling 911, what to say and what not to say, when to tell your story and to who, and dealing with the emotional aftermath, especially if it’s a fatal shooting.
You learn the basics of these things in an initial CHL class, but walking it out in daily life requires a commitment to read, study, practice and stay mentally alert. That’s one reason we offer additional programs such as the NRA Personal Protection Inside the Home and Personal Protecton Outside the Home classes. If you don’t see these on our current class schedule and are interested, let us know.
David Freeman 
I like that you mention that people must learn when and where they can carry a concealed weapon. I’ve met people who think that you can carried a concealed weapon anywhere, but that is not true for many private institutions and businesses. I’m glad to see that the classes for a concealed handgun license cover the when and where for concealed carrying. Thanks for sharing this article!