Your Guide to the NYS CCW Course in Syracuse, NY: What to Expect and How to Prepare

If you are thinking about getting a concealed carry weapon permit in the state of New York, then it is important for you to know that the state has recently made some changes to the regulations. Now it is a state-wise mandatory requirement to complete an 18HR concealed carry course to obtain a new or a renewed license/permit.
The Course and What It Contains
The 18HR CCW Course contains two sections/parts that all the applicants will have to cover to get their license. The first part pertains to classroom instructions and teachings and it takes 16 hours to complete. The second part is live firearms training and its duration is 2 hours.
Classroom Instructions (16 Hours): This is the major part of the NYS CCW Course in Syracuse. This part covers different topics like, conflict management, firearms knowledge and understanding, safety of firearms, situational awareness, among others.
Live Firearms Training (2 Hours): The second part is two hour long and this will be about live firearms training on a shooting range. This part will cover all the topics that applicants covered in the classroom and will include, target practice, proper use of weapon and handing of the weapon, etc.
Passing Criteria
The passing criteria is the same for both parts of the NYS CCW Course. You need a passing percentage of 80% in both sections, the classroom as well as the live firearm around.
Importance of the NYS CCW Course
Apart from the fact that it is a mandatory requirement to get a concealed carry weapon license in New York, the course also provides some extra benefits. The course will tell you how to handle dangerous situations without resorting to violence or the use of a gun as that should always be the last option.
The course also gives you legal protection in case you have to fire your weapon as the last resort. The 18HR NYS CCW Course has some additional benefits like peace of mind, sense of safety, and improved protection in case anything goes wrong.
Requirements to Apply for the 18HR NYS CCW Course
There are certain requirements you have to meet to apply for the course in New York. Some of these are:
- An applicant has to be at least 21 year old to apply for the license.
- The applicant should be a legal resident of New York state. Alternatively, if the applicant has a registered business or employment in New York, they will be eligible to apply.
- All applicants will have to pass a comprehensive background check. That will include submission of fingerprints as well as a criminal history investigation.
- Applicants will also need to show good moral character.
- All applicants will also need to ensure they do not have any other disqualifying traits like mental illness, felony convictions or restraining orders against their name.
Things to Consider Before Taking the 18HR NYS CCW Course
Before enrolling in the 18-hour New York State Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Course, here are some key things to consider:
Eligibility Requirements
- Ensure you meet the age (21+), residency, and background check requirements.
- Confirm that you do not have any disqualifying criminal history or mental health restrictions.
County-Specific Rules
- New York’s firearm laws vary by county, so check with your local licensing authority for additional requirements.
Course Content and Time Commitment
- The course includes 16 hours of classroom instruction and 2 hours of live-fire training.
- Topics covered: firearm safety, NYS laws, conflict de-escalation, situational awareness, and proper shooting techniques.
Financial Costs
- Fees can vary depending on the training provider.
- Additional costs: fingerprinting, application fees, ammunition, and possibly a firearm purchase.
Timeframe for Licensing
- After completing the course, you must submit your application and wait for approval, which can take several months to over a year depending on the county.
Gun Ownership & Storage Requirements
- You must comply with NYS gun storage laws, especially if you have minors in the home.
- Consider investing in a gun safe to prevent unauthorized access.
Legal Responsibilities
- Carrying a firearm comes with serious legal responsibilities.
- Learn about where you can legally carry, use-of-force laws, and potential consequences of misuse.
Training beyond the Minimum
- While the course is required for licensing, consider taking additional defensive shooting courses to improve skills.
NYS CCW Course in Syracuse, NY Options
There are quite a few options available to you if you are looking for a reliable training institute in the area of Syracuse, New York. Lions Pride Training Group is based in Syracuse and is offering multiple training courses related to firearms and their use. The trainers are experienced and have all the necessary certifications required to handle firearms and provide proper training.
Apart from the mandatory 18HR NYS CCW Course, they are also providing other courses in Syracuse like:
- Ladies Only Courses.
- NRA/USCCA Courses.
- Handgun Training.
- Multi State CCW Courses.
You can pay them a visit them or call them on the number given on their website to get all the necessary information about any course you are interested in. You can also get in touch with them via email.