Part of the responsibility of owning a handgun is understanding the legal aspects of taking it out in public. With over 31 years of experience serving the Anchorage community with police equipment and firearms, Northern Security Supply knows all about the dos and don'ts of open carry in Alaska. They advise that you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations surrounding your weapon to avoid danger and fines.

Below are a few of their most important tips:

• Know Who Can Own a Firearm: Alaska is relatively lenient on their open carry laws, but they do have some restrictions on who can own a firearm. You must, for example, be 21, a legal citizen of the United States, and mentally stable. Your criminal record must also be free of domestic abuse charges and restraining orders.

• You Don't Need a Special Permit: As long as you meet the requirements for owning a handgun, you don't need a permit to open carry it.  

• Follow the Rules Outside of Alaska: These laws can be applied only to the state of Alaska. If you're traveling, look up the laws of those states. Some states that don't reciprocate on Alaska's open carry laws include Oregon, Washington, and California. 

• Understand Where You Shouldn't Take It: Despite the state of Alaska being lenient on owning a handgun, there are still limits on where you can open carry. Some of these prohibited areas include schools, child care facilities, government buildings, and any establishment where one is drinking alcohol.  

It is the right of every American citizen to own a firearm. However, open carry laws can get a little unclear. If you’re looking for more specific information on handguns and open carrying, contact the professionals at Northern Security Supply at (907) 561-5602. You can also visit their website to meet the team and view their product offerings, including rifles, pistols, shotguns, and ammunition.