Updated for 2018: Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States

by
posted on February 16, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
firearm_book_lede.jpg

While the Concealed-Carry Reciprocity Act has indeed passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, it still needs Senate approval before you can move freely about the country with your individual state's carry license. However, beyond reciprocity, each state sets its own rules on the ownership, use and transporting of firearms, so if you have spring break plans or have already booked a summer vacation that involves driving across state lines, be prudent: Your pre-travel checklist should still include becoming familiar with gun laws in any of the states or North American countries through which you’ll be passing. Don't let a routine check stop turn into a web of legal regulations with a possibility of jail time.

Now in its 22nd edition and updated with more than 100 changes for 2018, Traveler’s Guide to the Firearms Laws of the Fifty States is a quick reference guide that covers the essentials on legally transporting a firearm in a vehicle, concealed-carry reciprocity, when and where and how a gun can be carried for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and even travel to Canada or Mexico. The 2018 edition also includes new online updates for conditional reciprocity states as well as 50 new subheadings in each state’s traveler’s checklist detailing gun carry and possession in hotels. Written and researched by J. Scott Kappas, the 2018 Traveler’s Guide also includes a handy introduction that defines many terms of importance to anyone traveling with or carrying a firearm outside of his or her home state. $14.95 plus shipping. Contact: Traveler’s Guide (859) 491-6400; gunlawguide.com.

Examples of individual state pages:




Until the Concealed-Carry Reciprocity Act passes the Senate, each state has its own laws and can vary greatly from coast to coast. Some are more restrictive while others are not. The latest Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States can help prevent you from making a life-altering mistake. 

Latest

25 Weatherby RPM
25 Weatherby RPM

Weatherby Revs Up With Its 25 WBY RPM

The 25 Weatherby RPM might just be the best quarter-bore rifle cartridge yet.

Beretta Releases 500th Anniversary Medal

In honor of its quincentennial, Beretta is offering a keepsake medal with the purchase of certain firearms in 2026.

New for 2026: Mission First Tactical Ultra Low Ride Holster

Mission First Tactical now offers a deep-concealment version of its Boltaron staple.

New for 2026: Smith & Wesson Night Guard Revolvers

Smith & Wesson brings back the Night Guard series of revolvers in .44 Special and .357 Magnum.

Battle On The Border: Pancho Villa’s Raid On America

In March 1916, Americans living in the quiet town of Columbus, N.M., suddenly found themselves attacked by Mexican bandits, and many citizens sought to arm themselves and fight back, both during the raid and afterward.

The Armed Citizen® Feb. 9, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.