What is the most "Gun Friendly" State?

[RocketFoot]

Just curious as to what State you think is the most "Gun Friendly?" PA is obviously pretty gun friendly...but theoretically, if Rendell got his way and made PA a commie state, where would you seriously think about moving too?

[Philadelphia]

I'd say Texas.

[fultonCoShooter]

Vermont! no CCW permit needed only state in the lower 48 you dont need a permit to conceal carry

you can also own NFA explosives

[Dave D.]

Just curious as to what State you think is the most "Gun Friendly?" PA is obviously pretty gun friendly...but theoretically, if Rendell got his way and made PA a commie state, where would you seriously think about moving too?

Good question. My copy of Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States gives a handy "gun freedom index" for each state, ranging from total prohibition (0) to complete freedom (100). Here's a few from each end of the spectrum:

99 Alaska, Vermont
93 Missouri
92 Texas, S. Dakota, New Mexico, Colorado

[...]

79 Pennsylvania
75 Tennessee

[...]

19 New Jersey
15 Massachussetts
2 Washington, D.C.

My choice would be Texas. Vermont's too damn cold, and besides it's infested with aging, granola-munching boomer hippies. To hell with THAT crap.

[knight0334]

I think PA should rank higher than what that says. There are only 4 things that really stick out in my mind as cons for PA:

1. lack of Stand Your Ground
2. Requiring a license for concealed carry
3. no explosive or incendiary weapons
4. additional restriction for Cities of the First Class.


Other than those above, 2nd Amendment freedoms are plentiful. The basis for all states and federal firearm liberty was born here in PA. It was borrowed from PA's own Constitution the words for the Second Amendment of the USC and most other states.

However.. if PA went commie on us, I'd either move to VT, AK, WV or back to FL. VT and AK for the liberties. FL and WV due to having friends and family.

[Dave D.]

I think PA should rank higher than what that says...

It probably would have, if the book weren't primarily a guide for people travelling through the various states, and it didn't emphasize laws related to vehicle carry. Here's what it says about Pennsylvania: "Vehicle carry of any firearm by an unlicensed individual is strictly regulated. Handguns must be unloaded, cased and secured in the trunk or rear storage area. The weapons should also be separated from any ammunition. Travelers should be enroute to a vacation dwelling, gun range or residence unless they have a permit." If it weren't for the vehicle carry requirements, I imagine PA would have rated higher.

[Lee-online]

It probably would have, if the book weren't primarily a guide for people travelling through the various states, and it didn't emphasize laws related to vehicle carry. Here's what it says about Pennsylvania: "Vehicle carry of any firearm by an unlicensed individual is strictly regulated. Handguns must be unloaded, cased and secured in the trunk or rear storage area. The weapons should also be separated from any ammunition. Travelers should be enroute to a vacation dwelling, gun range or residence unless they have a permit." If it weren't for the vehicle carry requirements, I imagine PA would have rated higher.

A person can carry a loaded pistol in a vehicle if they have a permit issued from ANY state.

People always say TX is good but, they do have alot of restrictions. 30.06 signs for example.

PA's biggest problem in other people eyes is no FTF sales of pistols without using a FFL. just about all states FTF doesn't require a FFL.

[Sebastian]

PA has among the best carry laws in the country. I would agree that Alaska and Vermont are ideal. But PA's regulations on transferring handguns are actually pretty stringent compared to most states. We also regulate unlicensed transportation too stringently. Truth be told, I'd take PA's gun laws over Texas', because I carry a lot more than I buy a gun, so PA's lack of carry restrictions, and lack of stupid laws outlawing open carry (like they have in Texas for CHL holders) make it more ideal to me.

[MOUNTAINORACLE]

Vermont! no CCW permit needed only state in the lower 48 you dont need a permit to conceal carry

you can also own NFA explosives

My choice also

oracle

[Mtbkski]

My choice also

oracle

VERMONT
YEAH.... No permit, and great skiing. I love it.