Scouting areas with loaded handgun while out of season?

[A207X2]

Can I carry a loaded handgun for safety/self defense from predators while scouting out of season? For example, scouting different areas of AZ prior to desert mule deer season, carrying a handgun to protect from mountain lions, etc.

 

[fwagner]

Yes

 

[pabearhunter]

What is the law in AZ say. Do you have a permit to carry? Do you have a CCW ? Are you in law enforcement ?.. If you are permitted in your home state doesn't mean you would be permitted in a different state . Best bet would be to call AZ and check with them.

 

[Dan O]

You would be foolish not to have some sort of protection that close to the border.

 

[rjthehunter]

I would imagine if you have a concealed carry permit you can carry. I know in MN it's illegal to carry a sidearm when archery hunting unless you have a CC permit.

 

[FairWeather]

I’m with pabearhunter, a quick google and some phone calls to local & state LE & wildlife agencies will answer your questions better than strangers on the internet.

That said, I think AZ is a state where you don’t need a permit to carry, concealed or otherwise.

A quick google returned this as the first result: https://www.phoenix.gov/policesite/Documents/088411.pdf

 

[WapitiBob]

2nd Amendment doesn't stop at the AZ border, and the Game Dept has zero say in the matter unless you're hunting. OR Fish/Wildlife tried to regulate firearm carry and got slapped by the courts.

 

[Blackcats06]

AZ is the wild west. No CC required here.

 

[A207X2]

Thanks. Yes, CWL here from FL, and reciprocity with AZ so was not worried about that. Was more concerned if I got stopped by Fish & Wildlife and they see I have a loaded gun with me and might try to charge me was being a poacher. It would be a 10mm handgun with 17 rounds.

 

[rjthehunter]

AZ is the wild west. No CC required here.

Lucky. MN is run by a bonehead...

 

[David58]

I often carry a rifle. Am a decent pistol shot, but if my dogs get in a tangle with a coyote, I'd likely do better being selective regarding my target than I would my pistol.

I always carry a pistol - it's the defaut.

You could also be hunting coyotes while you scout, at least here in NM. Open season year round.

David
NM