POCATELLO — When Idaho’s Legislature decided to approve a reform to expand recognition of Idaho’s concealed weapons permits in other states, many local gun owners decided to get a jump on enhanced training before the law goes into effect in July.

    Brian Crawford, of Pocatello, already has a concealed weapons permit.  He was one of more than a dozen people who took part in an enhanced weapons training class Saturday.

    Crawford carries a .45-caliber handgun and said not only will the training expand his recognition in other states, it will allow him to more easily transport weapons.

    Introduced by the House State Affairs Committee and co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Palmer, R-Meridian, House Bill 192 initiated an enhanced concealed carry license option for applicants who choose to seek additional training. Concealed weapons licenses issued in Idaho will be recognized in 40 states.  Currently, state permits are valid in only 27 states.

    Shane Ward, of Chubbuck, said he enrolled in the class because of the new law and he encouraged other gun owners to undergo enhanced training as well.

    “More people should do it,” Ward said. “The more responsible gun owners we have, the better off we are.”

    Bannock County Sheriff Lorin Nielsen agreed and said he supports the class requirement.

    “It’s important to know how the gun works and it improves proficiency,” Nielsen said.

    Early this year, Nielsen said the number of requests for concealed weapons permits had increased ten-fold since President Barack Obama’s nomination last August. Those numbers are down slightly, but Nielsen said it’s most likely because gun owners are waiting to learn more about guidelines attached to HB 192.

    Concealed weapons permits will still be issued without enhanced training, but the upgraded license gives holders more freedom, according to the sheriff.

    “In the West we take Second Amendment rights seriously,” Nielsen said.

    Instructor Cal Edwards said 16 people attended the eight-hour class, which included instruction in proper use of a defensive handgun and knowledge of self-defense law, as well as safety and proficiency training. Each participant was required to fire 98 rounds during the course, which cost $80.

    Edwards, Inkom’s police chief and the law enforcement coordinator at Idaho State University, said Saturday’s class was the first enhanced concealed-weapons class offered by E4 Tactical Solutions, LLC.

    The number of gun owners looking to upgrade their permits has increased because people are more aware of current gun issues, according to Edwards.

    As well as enhanced weapons training, concealed-weapons permit holders submit to rigorous background checks.

    Nick Edwards, owner of E4 Tactical Solutions, said more people want to be able to carry weapons in other states and the new state law will allow them to do that.

    “It’s the difference between having a permit and having a license,” Nick Edwards said.

    Edwards said that as well as an increase in the number of gun owners looking to upgrade their status, more people want to learn how to shoot and more women are applying for concealed weapons permits.

    Ginger Summers took part in the class Saturday at the indoor shooting range at Sam’s Gun Shop, located at 1822 N. Main Street. She practiced firing her Smith and Wesson  .357 revolver. The big gun sounded like a cannon, but Summers did manage to put a few rounds in her target.

    While proficiency was not a requirement of the class, participants had the opportunity to qualify for state certification Saturday.

    Enhanced weapons classes are set for April 27 and May 11. E4 Tactical Solutions offers basic weapons training. It also offers classes just for women and the group provides training for local businesses.

    For more information, go to www.e4tacticalsolutions.com.