[Unisaw]

I am considering a job in Kirkland, WA. Based on a review of packing.org, Washington's laws concerning handguns and CCW look pretty good. However, I would appreciate hearing first-hand reports from those who live in the area. Is the area CCW-friendly?

[priv8ter]

I'll try not to get to off topic, but here goes:

I grew up in Kirkland, and my mom still lives there so I am there fairly often.

Because Washington has a preemption clause, I can't see Kirkland being tougher than most other places to get your permit. The issueing authority is the local county Sherrif, which was Kitsap county for me. So, all you would have to do is find the nearest King County Sherrifs office, and go apply.

You have to fill out one sheet of paper, and get finger printed. Took me about 30 minutes. They say you need to allow 30 days, but most folks get them in 5-6 days. $60 for 5 years.

As far as CCW friendly...no bars, no schools, no government building or hospitals. I can't remember seeing any 'No weapons' sings for any places in Kirkland. Seattle itsef is tough...most of the arena's and stadiums have "No Weapon' signs.

Not a bad area...I can't stand it anymore though, because I remember what it was like 10-15 years ago, when it was a small subburb of Seattle, instead of part of the Latte drinking urban sprawl that The Eastside has become...

Good luck to you on the job though...hope you like traffic...

[Henry Bowman]

I'm a former resident of Kirkland (until about 5 years ago). The eastside of the Seattle area is relatively conservative, at least as compared to Seattle. Excellent conservative radio station(KVI). The loud liberals will drive you crazy, though.

Good CCW and self-defense laws. NO training requirement, and yet no blood flowing in the streets. State of the art indoor ranges nearby at low cost. Most outdoor ranges are quite a drive.

Cost of living there is high, but I'd love to go back in a heartbeat!:cool:

Keep safe.