Nra-Backed Carry Guard Insurance: Is It Worth It?

The National Rifle Association (NRA) is the number one gun rights lobbyist group. It offers its members $2500 of ArmsCare Coverage to protect their legal firearms and their attached accessories from damage, fire, theft (including from a locked vehicle), and loss. This insurance is included as part of your existing membership with the NRA but only if you activate the coverage.

In addition to ArmsCare Coverage, the NRA also offers its members Carry Guard self-defense insurance protection. This includes access to a members-only hotline, supplementary payments for bail, bonds, legal retainer fees, lawful replacement of your legally possessed firearm, compensation while in court, and more.

Firearm Insurance

Even if you are confident that you would only use your firearm in self-defence, you may still be charged with a crime. In such cases, firearm insurance can provide crucial financial support by covering the costs of a criminal defence attorney. Additionally, firearm insurance can help cover other expenses incurred during a trial, such as lost wages, allowing you to focus on your defence without worrying about financial strain.

Choosing the Right Firearm Insurance

When choosing a firearm insurance plan, it is essential to consider your specific needs and situation. Some key factors to consider include coverage limits, bail amounts, and whether the plan covers civil and criminal defence costs. It is also important to read the fine print and understand any exclusions or limitations to your coverage.

NRA-Endorsed Firearm Insurance

The NRA previously offered its members "Carry Guard" self-defence insurance, which provided coverage for self-defence, personal firearm liability, and civil defence legal fees. However, due to lawsuits and issues with state regulatory agencies, this insurance is no longer available.

Alternative Firearm Insurance Options

There are several alternative firearm insurance options available, each with its own benefits and limitations. Here are some of the most popular options:

• USCCA: The United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) offers firearm insurance as part of its membership benefits. USCCA insurance provides liability insurance and criminal defence protection for self-defence incidents involving firearms or other weapons. It is backed by a reputable insurance company and pays claims upfront. However, it does not cover shooting accidents or unintentional discharge, and there are limited reports from customers who have made claims.
• CCW Safe: CCW Safe is a well-established firearm insurance provider that offers unlimited coverage for civil and criminal defence costs. They do not require reimbursement for defence costs, even if you are found guilty or plead to a lesser offence. CCW Safe also covers red flag incidents and offers plans for those who live in states with strict gun laws.
• Right to Bear Insurance: Right to Bear offers a budget-friendly firearm insurance plan with unlimited civil and criminal defence coverage. They also offer additional services such as online training, psychological support, and expert witness coverage. However, spousal insurance, bail bond coverage, and minor coverage are add-ons with extra costs.
• US & TX Law Shield: This company offers competitive prices with no limit on civil or criminal defence coverage. They make payments upfront, so you don't have to worry about reimbursements during your trial. However, their basic plan does not include bail coverage or lost wages compensation.
• Second Call Defence: Second Call Defence offers mid-tier coverage with upfront payments for covered fees such as attorney's fees. Their coverage includes the entire US, but the criminal defence and bail coverage limits are on the lower end.

Final Thoughts

While the NRA no longer offers firearm insurance, several alternative options are available to meet your needs. When choosing a plan, carefully consider your specific situation and read the fine print to understand any exclusions or limitations. Remember, any insurance plan is better than none at all.

Self-defence insurance

The National Rifle Association (NRA) previously offered a self-defence insurance program called NRA Carry Guard, which provided comprehensive protection for self-defence, personal firearm liability, and civil defence legal fees. However, it seems that this program has been discontinued as of 2018.

There are other organisations that offer self-defence insurance, such as CCW Safe and US LawShield. CCW Safe offers benefits for civil defence and damages, attorney retainer and bail bond funding, and a 24/7 Critical Response Team. US LawShield provides Legal Defence for Self Defence, access to qualified attorneys, and zero attorneys' fees for covered events.

It is important to note that the decision to purchase self-defence insurance is a personal choice and may depend on various factors, including the state in which you reside and your individual needs and preferences. It is always a good idea to do your research and carefully review the terms, conditions, and exclusions of any insurance policy before purchasing.

Personal firearm liability insurance

The National Rifle Association (NRA) previously offered a free $2500 "ArmsCare Coverage" insurance policy to its members, which protected legal firearms and their attached accessories from damage, fire, theft, and loss. However, this benefit is no longer available as of 2018.

Now, the NRA offers Carry Guard Self-Defense Insurance Protection, which includes personal firearm liability insurance. This insurance provides coverage for self-defence, personal firearm liability, and civil defence legal fees. It also includes access to a 24/7 members-only hotline, supplementary payments for bail, bonds, legal retainer fees, lawful replacement of your legally possessed firearm, compensation while in court, psychological support, property restoration costs, and more. The coverage limit ranges from $250,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the level of coverage chosen.

Lockton Affinity Outdoor also offers Personal Firearm Liability Insurance with coverage limits ranging from $250,000 to $1.5 million, with defence reimbursement sublimits of $50,000 to $250,000. This insurance covers hunting and shooting accidents, accidental discharge, lost or stolen firearms, and lawful personal defence.

In addition to these options, there are other companies that offer firearm liability insurance, such as XINSURANCE, which provides customised insurance solutions for various individuals and businesses in the firearms industry.

Civil defence legal fees

The National Rifle Association (NRA) offers Carry Guard self-defence insurance protection to its members. This includes civil defence legal fees in addition to the insurance limit for each membership level. The insurance is affordable and provides comprehensive protection for self-defence, personal firearm liability, and civil defence legal fees.

NRA Carry Guard gives you access to a members-only hotline for incident reporting and emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It also offers supplementary payments for bail, bonds, legal retainer fees, lawful replacement of your legally possessed firearm, compensation while in court, psychological support, and property restoration costs.

Each NRA Carry Guard member has their own insurance limit ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the level of coverage chosen. The insurance also includes automatic protection for your spouse at no extra charge.

In addition to civil defence legal fees, the NRA Carry Guard insurance provides access to legal assistance and the ability to select your own counsel. It also offers the most comprehensive training developed exclusively for private citizens who carry concealed firearms.

The NRA Carry Guard insurance is administered by Lockton Affinity, LLC.

Other Options for Civil Defence Legal Fees

While the NRA Carry Guard insurance is a popular option, there are other companies that offer civil defence legal fees as part of their concealed carry insurance plans. Here are some alternatives:

• CCW Safe: This company offers unlimited civil defence coverage and allows you to choose your own lawyer. They also provide coverage for bail bond, lost wages, and expert witness fees.
• USCCA: The United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) offers a membership that includes liability insurance and educational resources. Their insurance provides up to $2,000,000 in liability coverage and unlimited defence expenses. However, they do not cover bail bond costs at the basic level.
• Right to Bear: This company offers unlimited civil defence coverage at a budget-friendly price of $15 per month. They also provide online training, psychological support, expert witness coverage, and industry discounts.
• Second Call Defence: This is a mid-tier option that offers decent coverage limits. They provide upfront payments for covered fees such as attorney's fees, bail, and lost wages. Their civil defence coverage limit is $500,000, and they also offer accidental shooting protection.
• US & TX Law Shield: This company offers no-limit civil and criminal defence coverage at competitive prices. Their basic plan does not include bail coverage or lost wages compensation, but you can add these features for an additional cost.

Gun safety rules

The NRA offers a variety of programs and services to promote the safe handling, use, and storage of firearms. Here are some detailed gun safety rules to follow:

NRA's Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling:

• ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. This is the primary rule of gun safety, and common sense should dictate the safest direction depending on the circumstances.
• ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. When holding the gun, rest your finger alongside the frame and outside the trigger guard.
• ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it. If you don't know how to open the action or inspect the chamber, leave the gun alone and seek help from someone who does.

Additional NRA Rules for Using or Storing a Gun:

• Know your target and what is beyond it. Be absolutely sure of your target and observe the area before shooting. Never fire in a direction where there are people or any potential for mishap.
• Know how to use the gun safely. Learn how it operates, including its basic parts, how to open and close the action, and how to remove ammunition. Remember that mechanical safety devices are never foolproof, and safe gun handling is paramount.
• Be sure the gun is safe to operate. Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential for gun maintenance. Consult a knowledgeable gunsmith if there are any questions about the gun's functionality.
• Use only the correct ammunition for your gun. Only use ammunition specifically designed for your particular firearm to ensure safe operation. Most guns have the ammunition type stamped on the barrel.
• Wear eye and ear protection as appropriate. Shooting glasses and hearing protection are crucial to prevent hearing damage and potential eye injuries from debris and hot gases.
• Never use alcohol or drugs before or while shooting. Alcohol and any substances that can impair normal mental or physical functions must not be used when handling or shooting guns.

General Gun Safety Rules:

• Store guns securely to prevent unauthorized use. Use locking devices and storage containers to prevent access by children or unauthorized persons.
• Treat all guns as if they are loaded. Always assume a gun is loaded, and check to ensure it is unloaded when handling it.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Avoid resting your finger on the trigger, as sudden movements or loud noises can lead to accidental discharge.
• Know your target and its surroundings. Be absolutely sure of your target and its surroundings before shooting. Never shoot at a target that is unidentified or based solely on movement, color, or sound.
• Know how to properly operate your gun. Familiarize yourself with the mechanical characteristics, proper loading and unloading procedures, and how to clear malfunctions.
• Store your gun and ammunition safely and separately. Use approved firearms safety devices, lock boxes, or gun safes to prevent unauthorized use and secure your ammunition separately.

Additional Safety Precautions:

• Regular cleaning is essential for the proper functioning and safety of your gun. Clean your gun after each use and before shooting if it has been in prolonged storage.
• Always ensure your gun is unloaded before cleaning. Keep the gun's action open during the cleaning process and ensure no ammunition is present in the cleaning area.
• If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and carefully open the action to unload and dispose of the cartridge safely.
• Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting to safeguard against hearing damage and eye injuries.
• Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting. Check for any obstructions, including mud, snow, excess lubricating oil, or grease, as they can cause increased pressure and lead to barrel bursts.
• Don't alter or modify your gun, and have it serviced regularly. Firearms are designed to function properly in their original condition, and any alterations can be dangerous and void warranties.
• Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of your firearm. Familiarize yourself with the safe gun handling rules, loading, unloading, carrying, and handling procedures specific to your firearm. Refer to the instruction manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance.

The NRA also offers insurance options for gun owners, such as the NRA Carry Guard, which provides self-defense insurance protection, personal firearm liability, and civil defense legal fees. Additionally, they offer firearm insurance through Lockton Affinity Outdoor to protect against damage, loss, or theft of guns.

Frequently asked questions