Ohio is still fairly gun friendly for a mid western state. 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.
Ohio Gun Law Travel Guide Basics
Ownership: unrestricted, no permit or license necessary
Consistency of laws: state laws over local laws in late 2008, see comments below
Self-defense: castle doctrine
Open carry: unrestricted
Concealed carry: shall issue state, permits accepted from some other states
Vehicle carry handguns: unloaded and in plain view or in cases
Vehicle carry long guns: unloaded and in plain view or in cases
Official source information
Concealed Handgun Permit
Ohio Statutes
Ohio Legislature
State Firearms Associations
The Ohio Rifle and Pistol Association
Ohioans for Concealed Carry
Ohio State Home Page
Do you have any experiences in Ohio that you care to share with other travelers?
Ohio state gun law now trumps all local laws, this passed not too long ago and has been upheld in a couple of court challenges. The law allowing long guns and ammo to be stored in a vehicle together just passed as well, though the mag must be empty. Great site!
Thanks for the update. I found some information for everyone to reference as well.
Columbus Dispatch
Cleveland Plain Dealer