It took a long time, and many changes in the Wisconsin Legislature, but concealed carry permits will start being issued on November 1, 2011 in my state. Wisconsin is the 49th state to pass laws allowing non-felon citizens to carry handguns for self defense. As a supporter of the right to self protection and as a gun owner already I am happy that the law was finally past, however, now there are many more issues to consider before a permit holder leaves his house with his gun.
The law reads that non-felon citizens in Wisconsin that have passed a certified firearms class or has had the hunters safety course are eligible to become concealed carry permit holders. The hunter safety course is a good class for the hunting and shooting sports but does not cover anything on carrying concealed. With the ease of getting a license, new permit holders should consider seeking out a good concealed carry class that will cover most of the equipment issues and more importantly the legal ramifications of self defense. One thing is for sure, your life will change if you draw your weapon and heaven forbid you have to use it to defend yourself.
In the State of Wisconsin, as it is in most of the other United States, the only time the use of deadly force is acceptable is when you have no other option than to defend yourself. If a person can retreat from the situation or defuse it non-violently, deadly force is not advised. The laws governing self defense can be vague and do not explain when you can shoot. There is no such thing as a standard deadly encounter, each situation is very different. As a permit holder you might have to make a split second decision, much thought and effort should go into your preparation to carry a hand gun.
A few things to remember before you decide to carry a concealed handgun. Never draw your weapon or use deadly force unless you have no other reasonable way out of a situation. Also remember that ordinary citizens are never legally required to defend themselves or others, the law can work against you if you intentionally get involved and escalate a situation. Please, if you are going to exercise your right to carry a handgun, do it the most responsible way you can, and help protect yourself and the other law abiding citizens of your community.
Info: PDF file on Wisconsin’s law
Before You Carry