Local News

The CHL and what you should know

But first…

Concealed Carry Classes with Nick Hammond

Nick Hammond is holding concealed carry classes on May 3, May 4, May 10, and May 11 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The cost is approximately $65. For more information or to register, contact Nick at 740-684-0489.

Please note: Nick will be unavailable between May 17 and June 7.

Additional information can be found on Nick’s Facebook page: Hammond Ordnance Group.

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Here are the pros and cons of Constitutional Carry (also known as Permitless Carry) versus Concealed Carry:

Pros and Cons of a Concealed Carry Permit:

• Requires eight hours of training, including approximately two hours of range time.

• Fingerprint-based criminal background check is required.

• Ohio’s Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is honored in 38 other states.

• If your CHL is current, you can often skip the federal NICS background check when purchasing firearms.

(Paperwork is still required)

• Your name is included in a state license database.

• You are legally allowed to carry a firearm inside a school zone if it is locked in a vehicle, as permitted under federal law with a valid CHL.

• Some employers are more tolerant of employees who have a license.

• You’ll receive training on self-defense and applicable laws.

• The overall cost—including training, ammunition, gear, and other expenses—will likely exceed $100.

Pros and Cons of Constitutional Carry (Permitless Carry):

• No training is required.

• No background check is required to carry.

• You will not receive reciprocity from the 38 states that honor Ohio’s CHL.

• Purchasing a firearm may take longer, as you’ll need to complete the NICS background check with every firearm purchase.(Not Always)

• There is no government record specifically tied to your right to carry; this does not mean you are exempt from legal restrictions.

• You are not legally allowed to carry or possess a firearm in a school zone, even if it is unloaded and secured (locked) in a vehicle.

• Some businesses, including your employer, may impose stricter policies if you do not have a permit or license.

• No legal or self-defense training is required.

• No cost upfront—but potentially much more risk.

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Final Thought:

Regardless of your choice, it’s a good idea to consider concealed carry insurance. Some people I know use USCCA, though other companies are available as well.

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Even though Ohio is now a permitless carry (constitutional carry) state (since June 2022), meaning most adults can carry concealed without a permit, there are still important benefits to having an Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL). Here’s a breakdown:

1. Reciprocity with Other States

Many states recognize Ohio’s CHL, but they do not honor permitless carry. Having the Ohio CHL means you can legally carry in about 30+ other states when traveling.

2. Simplified Gun Purchases

With an Ohio CHL, you can skip the background check when buying a firearm from a licensed dealer — they just verify your permit instead. It speeds up the process.

3. Proof of Training and Lawful Carry

If you ever need to show you’re a law-abiding, trained individual (during a police encounter, for example), having a CHL demonstrates you took official training and passed a background check.

4. Carrying in Some Restricted Places

Certain places (like public areas of some government buildings) may allow CHL holders to carry but not unlicensed carriers. There’s still a slight edge in access with a CHL.

5. Legal Protection and Clarity

When dealing with law enforcement, having a CHL might prevent confusion. Officers are generally trained to treat CHL holders as lower-risk individuals.

6. Employment Flexibility

Some jobs (especially security-related or those involving transportation of valuables) prefer or require employees to have a CHL.

7. Training in Responsibility and Law

To get a CHL, you must complete a certified course covering Ohio firearms laws, self-defense laws, and safe handling. This helps avoid dangerous legal mistakes if you ever have to defend yourself.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the states that honor an Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL) as of April 2025:

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🗺️ Ohio CHL Reciprocity Map

An Ohio CHL is recognized in 38 states, allowing you to legally carry concealed in those jurisdictions. This is particularly beneficial when traveling, as many states require a permit for concealed carry and do not honor permitless carry from other states.

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✅ States That Honor an Ohio CHL

The following states recognize Ohio’s CHL, either through formal reciprocity agreements or by acknowledging out-of-state permits: 

• Alabama

• Alaska

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• Colorado

• Delaware

• Florida

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Indiana

• Iowa

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Louisiana

• Maine

• Michigan

• Minnesota

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• Nevada

• New Hampshire

• New Mexico

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Oklahoma

• Pennsylvania

• South Carolina

• South Dakota

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Washington

• West Virginia

• Wisconsin

• Wyoming  

Please note that while these states honor Ohio’s CHL, each state has its own laws and regulations regarding concealed carry. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific laws of any state you plan to visit.

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⚠️ States That Do Not Honor an Ohio CHL

The following states do not recognize Ohio’s CHL:

• California

• Connecticut

• Hawaii

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• New Jersey

• New York

• Oregon

• Rhode Island 

Additionally, the District of Columbia does not honor Ohio’s CHL. In these jurisdictions, carrying a concealed weapon without a local permit is generally prohibited.

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🔍 Additional Resources

For the most up-to-date information and interactive maps, you can refer to the following resources:

• Ohio Attorney General – Concealed Carry Reciprocity Agreements

• USCCA Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

• USA Carry – Concealed Carry Permit Reciprocity Maps