COLORADO SPRINGS — As of January 2, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office said they have 46,591 active concealed carry permits. Those from the sheriff's office said with numbers like that, El Paso County leads the state in the number of permits. Now, even more people can start the permit process, with a free class being offered in Colorado Springs.
The class is hosted by a group called Guns For Everyone, which was started a little less than ten years ago and is based in Denver. Those with the group said since 2012, they have given these classes to around 40,000 Coloradans. The class offered lasts for three hours and is completely free. "Typically the class will cost you anywhere from $50-$150 depending on where you take it," said Isaac Chase, the co-owner of Guns For Everyone.
At the end of the session, students get a certificate, which they then need to take to their local sheriff's office to start the application process for their concealed carry. The application through the sheriff's office will have a fee, according to Chase. "Our focus isn't trying to get people to go out into public to be superheroes and rescue people, our focus is to get people properly trained, and properly educated on how to keep that gun safe," said Chase.
Guns For Everyone will be offering their class out of 5249 Galley Road in Colorado Springs for at least a year. Chase said they may make it a permanent location if attendance is high enough. He said classes will happen four to six times every month, on alternating days. To secure a spot, sign up online.
Those with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office said the number of active concealed carry permits will more than likely decrease by the end of next week, because they need to deactivate the expired permits.
