Guns are among the most controversial of political issues. And with a major push for tighter background checks and gun control, there are some states where getting a gun is becoming harder and harder.
Hawaii is one of those states where getting a concealed carry permit is extremely difficult. In fact, Hawaii has not issued a concealed carry permit since the year 2000. And it’s not because no one’s applying.
So why is getting a Hawaii concealed carry permit so difficult? To get the answer, read on to learn a bit about Hawaii gun laws.
Hawaii Gun Laws
Out of Hawaii’s entire population of 1.4 million, only a small number of about 281 have concealed carry licenses. This is due to the strict gun laws the state operates under.
One major factor that’s in play here is that Hawaii only issues concealed carry licenses under very stringent guidelines. An individual needs to prove that they face a serious and specific threat that would merit the need for a concealed carry permit.
Individuals must be 21 or over to apply for concealed carry, and they must undergo a background check that includes a psych evaluation. They also must successfully complete a state-approved concealed carry class.
However, even though individuals go through this process, the fact remains that a concealed carry permit has not been handed out in 22 years. So now that we know the process individuals must go through, let’s examine why that process has not merited any permits.
Barriers to Hawaii Concealed Carry Permits
As has been stated, an individual must prove they have a verifiable and serious threat in order to get this permit. Perhaps one reason no one has gotten a permit is that no such threat has been found.
Hawaii has one of the lowest crime rates in the nation, with the violent crime rate being 387.8 offenses per 100,000 residents in 2020. With crime significantly below the national average, it’s very difficult to prove that a person has sufficient reason to need a concealed carry permit.
Another factor worth noting is that even if a permit is issued, it does not give the carrier the right to carry a gun wherever they please. The gun can only be carried under special circumstances such as taking it home from the initial purchase or taking it to and from target practice. Other than specific cases of that sort, the gun owner can only carry the firearm on their own property.
More Gun Information
Now you have a greater understanding is to why obtaining a Hawaii concealed carry permit is so rare and so difficult. With gun laws continuing to change and restrictions getting tighter, it is good to be aware of the gun laws of various states. Continue to do research and stay informed on this controversial issue.
For more information on guns such as tips on buying, shooting, and adding accessories, visit our Lifestyle section.
