Is Texas an Open Carry State?

Texas has long been a supporter of gun rights and open carry laws, and it is one of the more lenient states in the US with regards to gun usage. That being said, depending on who you ask, Texas may not necessarily be considered an “open carry” state. In this guide, we will look at the laws that are in place in Texas for open carry and try to determine if indeed it can be described as an open carry state or not.

What is Open Carry?

Before we dive into the specifics of Texas’ open carry laws, let’s first take a quick review of what open carry actually means. Open carry is the practice of legally carrying a firearm in public view. This practice is quite popular with many gun owners, typically those that prioritize personal protection while in public areas, who feel like they have a right to visibly display the fact that they are carrying a firearm to others.

Texas Open Carry Laws

In Texas, the practice of open carry is a bit complex, and as mentioned earlier, depending on how you define it, it may or may not be considered an open carry state. Let’s break down the law.

Texas is one of only four states (Not including Washington D.C.) that does not require a license to openly carry a rifle or shotgun in public. Anyone over the age of 18 who is legally allowed to possess a rifle or shotgun can openly carry it without a permit or license from the state.

When it comes to handguns, however, that’s a slightly different story. To legally open carry a handgun, you will need to have a valid license called “License To Carry” (LTC) which is issued by the state after undergoing a background check.

As of 2016, Texas has also passed “constitutional carry” laws that allow individuals over 21 to openly carry handguns after completion of an approved training course, background check, and proficiency test – although this may not technically apply to open carry due to Texas’ definition of “open carrying”.

Conclusion

So in conclusion, while Texas does allow for people to carry rifles and shotguns without a license, handgun carriers must meet some criteria in order to legally open carry their handguns. As stated earlier, depending on your definition of open carry, this could mean that Texas is not technically an “open carry” state – although it clearly has some friendlier laws when compared to other states in the U.S. With that said, it’s still a good idea to familiarize yourself with all the laws regarding open carry in your state so that you can stay within the law when bearing your firearm. For more information about Texas open carry laws, please visit NMCRS website, they explain with more detail everything there is to know about open carrying in this state.

An Insider’s Guide to Open Carry in Houston, Texas

Houston, Texas is a city that thrives on the Southern charm of its residents and the breathtaking scenic beauty. With the state’s gun laws changing overtime, a lot of visitors may question the extent of Open Carry in Houston. In this insider’s guide, you will explore what it means to Open Carry in Houston, where it is and isn’t allowed, plus some other fun things to do while visiting this great city!

Understanding Open Carry Laws in Houston

When it comes to Open Carry Laws in Houston, licensed individuals who possess permits issued by the state of Texas can openly carry/hide a handgun in public places, specifically at casinos, amusement parks, and places of worship. However, they cannot carry firearms in facilities with a license for sale and consumption of alcohol, hospitals, or normal schools.

In addition, a person can face a Class A misdemeanor if a handgun is openly carried intentionally in an area where concealed or open carry is not permitted. There is no need to apply for a special license to Open Carry in Houston as it is allowed under Texas State Law.

Cultural & Historical Attractions

Houston boasts a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, with the city being home to some of the most famous museums in the world. Some of the places you’d want to visit include:

Space Center Houston: This attraction is the official visitor center of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) astronaut corps. You can check out over 25 unique exhibits chronicling NASA’s research and developments, including space travel and the destination Mars.

Houston Museum of Natural Science: The Houston Museum of Natural Science is home to numerous exhibits from ancient fossils to intricate gemstones and souvenirs of the ancient world. The museum also features a planetarium and IMAX theater, and it’s a great place for visitors of all ages to learn something new.

Rice Village: Rice Village is one of the most historic and popular landmarks in Houston. It is a thriving street that features an array of restaurants, cafes, boutiques, unique shops, and amazing local art.

Top-rated Dining Spots

Houston is famous for its diverse food scene, with a wide variety of ethnic foods found all over the city. Whether you are looking for something savory or sweet, Houston has a restaurant for every taste bud. Some top-rated dining spots include:

Brennan’s of Houston: Brennan’s of Houston offers a luxurious dining experience with a mix of Creole and Southern influences, with some of the classics like Creole Gumbo and ‘Texas Redfish Pontchartrain.’

Ocean’s 18: This seafood restaurant located in Willowbrook serves fresh, sustainably caught seafood inspired by South and Central American flavors. The restaurant’s signature dishes include tacos de sandia and roasted lobster.

State Fare Kitchen & Bar: With two locations in Houston, the State Fare Kitchen & Bar is a family-friendly restaurant famous for its southern-style cuisine. From chicken-fried steak to Nashville hot chicken, you’ll never be disappointed.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

Apart from the attractions and dining spots, Houston has some off the beaten paths for visitors. Experience several local bars, shops, and galleries by visiting the following unique spots:

Reality Gallery: This intimate Gallery showcases some of the exceptional artwork across Houston created by both local and international artists.

Miss Carousel: Miss Carousel is a Houston bar located in Montrose that offers great value cocktails, live music, and a fun atmosphere. It is also famous for its pizza offering.

Menil Collection: This free-admission museum in the Montrose neighborhood boasts a collection of art and artifacts from around the world, with over 17,000 pieces of African and Pacific Islander Art and Artifacts.

Conclusion

While Texas is an Open Carry State, it is important to understand the specific laws related to Open Carry in Houston or any other city you may visit in this state. During your visit to Houston, don’t forget to explore its cultural and historical attractions, try their enticing food, and wander off the beaten paths. With its Southern charm and breathtaking scenic beauty, Houston has something to offer to every kind of traveler.