Michigan is a mixed bag for gun friendliness. Long gun laws are very specific while handgun laws just don’t allow for an out of state resident to be carrying one at all unless they have a concealed carry permit. If you are traveling from state to state and carrying, you need to know the situation in each state you are entering or you could get into trouble. For certain states or if you have any doubt at all, keeping moving through the state (reference the McClure-Volkmer Act to only stop for gas and emergencies) towards your final destination state. Your destination state must have acceptable laws for your stay. We make some generalities with our color map here for ease of use so you should always look up the current details of the laws. Handgun laws are where it usually varies the most. This is a controversial issue but which ever side you are on, it is better to have informed people out there. You can also download an easy to print version with all states and details.
Michigan Gun Law Travel Guide Basics
Ownership: unrestricted, permit or license necessary for handguns
Consistency of laws: uniform throughout state
Self-defense: castle doctrine
Open carry: mostly unrestricted but rarely actually done in state
Concealed carry: shall issue state, permits accepted from other states
Vehicle carry handguns: permit from home state required
Vehicle carry long guns: unloaded and cased in trunk or outside storage compartment
Official source information
Michigan Law
Michigan Legislature
Michigan Rifle & Pistol Association
Shooters’ Alliance for Firearm Rights
Michigan State Home Page
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