Ohio Sheriffs educate gun owners with CCW Wallet Cards

Years ago, leaders with Buckeye Firearms Association saw a gun-rights group handing out small "business cards" with information about that state's concealed carry rules.

We thought it was a great idea. So I designed a similar card we could use for Ohio.

The cards were a big hit. It wasn't long before we were printing these cards in large quantifies and distributing them by the hundreds of thousands through firearm instructors all over Ohio.

Now this successful program has evolved and we're working directly with Ohio sheriffs to provide these cards to the general public.

Angela Armstrong, BFA's Administrative Assistant, has been talking to sheriff offices in all 88 counties to explain this educational program. She follows up by sending a desktop sign with a card holder that displays the wallet cards free of charge.

"The response has been overwhelmingly positive," says Armstrong. "Sheriffs and their staff I talk to love these cards and think this is a great way to educate gun owners about concealed carry."

It's a simple idea. If concealed carriers know the rules, they are more likely to act responsibly. And it's a benefit for law enforcement too, because an educated gun owner is better able to interact with them in a calm and professional matter. It's a win-win scenario.

The cards provide concise information on:

• Basic Gun Safety Rules
• States Where Your Ohio License Is NOT Valid
• Firearm Transportation
• Encounters With Law Enforcement
• Forbidden Carry Zones

BFA provides the cards to Sheriffs in whatever quantity they need at no cost.

You can pick up a card next time you visit your local sheriff's office, or you can purchase them from our store.

Dean Rieck is Executive Director of Buckeye Firearms Association.