Why Open Carry Is Legal but “Flashing” Your Concealed Gun Can Be Menacing in Colorado
Open Carry vs. Menacing in Colorado: Why One Is Legal and the Other Can Be a Felony
Understanding CRS 18-3-206 (Menacing) for concealed carriers in Colorado.
The Short Version
Open carry is generally legal in most of Colorado (local exceptions apply). Your firearm is visible—no surprise, no implied threat.
Improperly displaying a concealed handgun during a dispute can be treated as using a weapon to intimidate, which fits Menacing under CRS 18-3-206 and may be charged as a felony when a deadly weapon is involved.
Open Carry in Colorado
- Generally lawful statewide for those who can legally possess a firearm.
- Home-rule/local exceptions: Denver and some municipalities restrict or prohibit open carry. Obey posted signs and local ordinances.
- Open carry is treated as neutral presence—you are not using the gun to influence anyone’s behavior.
When Concealed Carry Turns Into Menacing (CRS 18-3-206)
Colorado Menacing Concealed Carry
Menacing occurs when you knowingly place or attempt to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. If a deadly weapon is used, the charge can be a felony.
Examples that can trigger Menacing:
- Lifting your shirt to “show” your gun during an argument.
- Drawing or partially drawing to “make a point.”
- Grabbing or palming the gun while posturing in a dispute.
You don’t have to point it or say “I’ll shoot.” Using the gun to influence behavior is enough.
Why the Law Treats Them Differently
| Behavior | How It’s Interpreted |
|---|---|
| Openly carrying on your hip | Visible from the start → generally lawful, no implied threat |
| Revealing your concealed gun in a dispute | Intimidation / attempt to influence → can meet Menacing |
| Touching/brandishing to “warn” | Threat signaling → strong Menacing evidence |
Plain-English Rule for Concealed Carriers
The gun only comes out for lawful self-defense. Not for communication. Not to win an argument. If you wouldn’t fire, don’t display.
FAQ Colorado Menacing Concealed Carry
Is “printing” (gun outline through clothing) Menacing?
Accidental printing is usually not Menacing. Menacing requires causing fear through conduct. But intentionally revealing to intimidate can be.
Can I show my gun as a “warning” so I don’t have to shoot?
Bad idea. If deadly force isn’t justified, displaying to influence someone often becomes your crime scene—Menacing.
What about Denver?
Denver has stricter local rules (including open-carry prohibitions). Know and obey local law wherever you carry.
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Wanna or Hafta breaks down when deadly force is truly justified—and when it will land you in court or worse.
Training That Keeps You Out of Trouble
- Handgun Fundamentals—safe gun handling under pressure.
- Concealed Carry Renewal—legal refreshers and judgment drills.
- Book a class on your schedule.
Legal Notice: This article is educational, not legal advice. Laws change and local ordinances may differ (e.g., Denver).
For specific incidents, consult a qualified Colorado attorney. Statute referenced: CRS 18-3-206 (Menacing).