Congratulations! You finally got your Florida Concealed Carry Permit in the mail.  You're so excited to finally be able to carry your firearm concealed in public.  So, to welcome you to the Concealed Carry lifestyle, I want to take the opportunity to do two things for you.  1. Remind you of the great responsibility that comes with it, and 2. Share 5 important tips that will help you become a safe and responsible Florida concealed carrier. Let's begin:

1. Never compromise on safety. 

If you have to use your firearm in self-defense, it may likely happen in a public place.  There will be other people around that you do not want to harm.  This is when your knowledge of the safety rules will be tested.  Do you know what they are?  Can you remember and perform them under pressure?

2. Get professional training from a reputable, certified instructor. Not only in how to skillfully handle a firearm but also how to do so lawfully.

3.  Practice regularly.  Firearm skills are perishable.  If you neglect to practice regularly, your skills will fade.  That will put you and those around you at risk. 80% of your practice should be by dryfire.  You can do it anywhere, save on ammo, and dramatically improve your skills at the range.  20% should be with live fire to put your skills to the test. And, it's a ton of fun.

4.  Get the right gun and ammunition for you.  Not what everyone else thinks you should get or because some fancy commercial said you should.  There is a lot more to being skillful and responsible than pulling the trigger.  Once you get the right gun, make sure you maintain it well. 

5.  Get self-defense insurance.  Surviving a violent attack is only the beginning of the ordeal.  The legal battle, if any, may be long and very costly.  Self-defense insurance will cover the costs of the legal battle so you and your family don't lose everything.  If you own a gun for self-defense, especially if you carry concealed, this is a must.

 Again, congratulations on getting your Florida Concealed Carry Permit and welcome to the Concealed Carry lifestyle. 

Train Hard, Often, and SAFELY, and I'll see you at the range.