Blind man denied gun permit in Minnesota

Posted May 18th, 2007 by Matt

Finally something that seems to make sense.

A legally blind man from North Dakota is appealing a decision by the Clay County (MN) Sheriff to deny him a permit to carry in Minnesota. The laws in MN require that "a person should be able to show proficiency on the firing range and a proficiency of the weapons." Carey McWilliams of Fargo feels that he can do that, yet he's legally blind.

He says "It would be self-defense, at point-blank range, with ammo that doesn't go any further than the assailant." I for one have never heard of ammo that only goes as far as the assailant and then drops to the ground. I Googled for it a little bit but was unable to find anything about this special ammo that McWilliams is using.

Unfortunately (for the residents of Fargo/Moorhead), McWilliams is allowed to carry in Minnesota due to a reciprocity agreement with Utah (where he is licensed). Good job Utah!

Comments

There is ammo that renders

On February 5th, 2008 Jaynee Germond (not verified) says:

There is ammo that renders anyone beyond the assailant safe. Shotshells keep your walls and house safe, while causing damage to your assailant.

Ammo

On February 5th, 2008 Matt says:

Since I wrote the original post (last May) I believe I've heard of such ammo, but not seen it. I'd be curious on some brand names and/or links.

A person who is Legally

On May 13th, 2008 Randy (not verified) says:

A person who is Legally Blind may still have vision, although it may be limited. It doesn't mean he or she is totally blind.

I saw an article about him or another legally blind person before, who lived in this area, and had a Concealed Carry Permit. The person was able to hit the target on the shooting range.

Should he be legally allowed to defend himself? I think so. I live in the same city, Moorhead, MN.
I am not afraid of being shot by a Legally Blind person with a permit. I am afraid of someone who carries without a permit.

The fact that he worked so hard to get the permit shows he intends to comply with the law. If he had criminal intent, he would have no reason to apply for a Concealed Carry Permit.