Trevor
New member
imported post
Howdy, I am new to the forum and recently became interested in OC. I realize the bulk of people on here are form the west side of the mountains and also that it is not as problematic to OC in much of Eastern WA, but has anyone had any experiences in Eastern WA that may be helpful? I live in a small community with no police department (carrying at home is no prob) near Walla Walla and recently corresponded with the Walla Walla Police Department regarding it as I have to travel there for any and all business. They seemed fairly receptive but also hinted they would prefer I didn't. Thanks for any input.
Here is the response from the Walla Walla PD, I thought it was pretty favorable.
Good morning, Trevor. Your question concerning open carry of firearms has been referred to me.
You are correct that, under Washington State law, it is lawful for a person to carry a firearm in open view, without a permit. However, they must be legally able to possess firearms (no prohibiting convictions, appropriate age, etc) and the firearm must not be “concealed”. There are also statutory prohibitions on carrying firearms in certain places (schools, courthouses, etc).
With that said it is important to understand that the intent of this law was to allow people to carry their firearms in plain view and in a reasonable manner (holstered). In today’s society, if you walk down the street with a gun in plain view in your hand, you will likely generate several calls to law enforcement and get some prompt contact with some uniforms trying to figure out what may be wrong with you.
Officers do understand the plain view carry laws, but it is important to understand that most ordinary citizens do not, and often react with fear to anyone with a gun in plain sight.
If you wish to do so, this law can be reviewed by doing a google search on REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON 9.41.050 and 9.41.060.
9.41.050 is the statute concerning carrying firearms, and 9.41.060 discusses exceptions to restrictions on carrying firearms.
I hope this helps. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me directly or e-mail me.
Steven R. Ruley
Technical Services Supervisor
Walla Walla Police Department
15 N. Third Avenue
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Howdy, I am new to the forum and recently became interested in OC. I realize the bulk of people on here are form the west side of the mountains and also that it is not as problematic to OC in much of Eastern WA, but has anyone had any experiences in Eastern WA that may be helpful? I live in a small community with no police department (carrying at home is no prob) near Walla Walla and recently corresponded with the Walla Walla Police Department regarding it as I have to travel there for any and all business. They seemed fairly receptive but also hinted they would prefer I didn't. Thanks for any input.
Here is the response from the Walla Walla PD, I thought it was pretty favorable.
Good morning, Trevor. Your question concerning open carry of firearms has been referred to me.
You are correct that, under Washington State law, it is lawful for a person to carry a firearm in open view, without a permit. However, they must be legally able to possess firearms (no prohibiting convictions, appropriate age, etc) and the firearm must not be “concealed”. There are also statutory prohibitions on carrying firearms in certain places (schools, courthouses, etc).
With that said it is important to understand that the intent of this law was to allow people to carry their firearms in plain view and in a reasonable manner (holstered). In today’s society, if you walk down the street with a gun in plain view in your hand, you will likely generate several calls to law enforcement and get some prompt contact with some uniforms trying to figure out what may be wrong with you.
Officers do understand the plain view carry laws, but it is important to understand that most ordinary citizens do not, and often react with fear to anyone with a gun in plain sight.
If you wish to do so, this law can be reviewed by doing a google search on REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON 9.41.050 and 9.41.060.
9.41.050 is the statute concerning carrying firearms, and 9.41.060 discusses exceptions to restrictions on carrying firearms.
I hope this helps. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me directly or e-mail me.
Steven R. Ruley
Technical Services Supervisor
Walla Walla Police Department
15 N. Third Avenue
Walla Walla, WA 99362