By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Conceal carry permits are not required for most adults in the state of Kansas, but a little bit of training can go a long way. The Barton County Sheriff's Office is again hosting a concealed carry class on March 23 at the BTSO shooting range located just east of the landfill on Northeast 30 Road. The 8-hour class must be completed as part of the concealed carry license application process. Sheriff Brian Bellendir said new statutes allow for younger participants this year.
"Kansas is a constitutional (carry) state so you really don't need a conceal carry permit in Kansas unless you're leaving the state, or if you're between 18-20, you do need a permit," he said. "That is why 18-20-year-olds can now take this class."
The $50 fee for the class is nonrefundable and must be paid prior to the class to guarantee a spot. Participants are asked to arrive a few minutes early as the class begins promptly at 8 a.m. Participants should bring a working firearm, hearing and eye protection, and at least 50 rounds of ammunition, which is to be left in the vehicle.
"We do these two or three times a year," Bellendir said. "It depends on how much demand there is for them. It seems like the first one of the year, the March class, you get quite a few people in that one because they all got guns at Christmas and want to take the class."
Instructors are all Kansas law enforcement officers with experience. Lunch is provided. The $50 fee is used to certify range masters, make improvements to the range, replace equipment, and for training. Bellendir said classes fill up fast so stop by the sheriff's office, 1416 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend, or call (620) 793-1876 to secure a spot.