Underage Carry while hunting

I'm taking a coworkers 15 year old son with me for rifle season this year. He's a really good kid and is excited to be along. He won't be hunting elk but will be able to shoot some grouse hopefully. I've taken him shooting quite a few times and he's proven to be responsible. He has needed some stern words to get him there at times like we all have. We're in bear country and I'd like to have him "open" carry a handgun should the worst happen. As he's only 15, is that something he can do legally? Thanks for the help.

Indeed he can.

Though note: having a non-legal caliber while big game hunting is technically illegal. Whether it is ever enforced, is another question. I've never heard of it.

Though another note: I am not a lawyer.

Also, if he is carrying anything less than a 44mag, make sure he knows that the first shots should be coming from his hunting rifle, probably until it is empty or becomes too slow to cycle. The slower shots from a proper rifle are still a better bet than a mag dump with a 9mm or 45acp on game like a bear.

What j said

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Originally Posted by J

Indeed he can.

Though note: having a non-legal caliber while big game hunting is technically illegal. Whether it is ever enforced, is another question. I've never heard of it.

Though another note: I am not a lawyer.

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Goofy laws about this....

You can LEGALLY carry concealed without a permit if you're actively hunting.

Plus, as long as the handgun you're carrying isn't the only thing you have... You're good to go... I got stopped two years ago by a DOW guy. He was more interested in my bow than the Sig on my hip.

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Originally Posted by J

Also, if he is carrying anything less than a 44mag, make sure he knows that the first shots should be coming from his hunting rifle, probably until it is empty or becomes too slow to cycle. The slower shots from a proper rifle are still a better bet than a mag dump with a 9mm or 45acp on game like a bear.

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Good advice... But the closing speed on a bear is only going to allow for 1, maybe two shots from the rifle...

For a minor to have a handgun, he needs permission of his parent or guardian. Best if that permission is written.

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Originally Posted by Circuits

For a minor to have a handgun, he needs permission of his parent or guardian. Best if that permission is written.

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And notorized, one notoraized on you and one notorized on the kid. Include His parents name authorizing permission and your name since your providing the pistol and accompanying him.

I have nothing to offer on legal advice, just wanted to say Good For You for getting another kid into shooting and hunting.

Thanks guys. I appreciate the input. I've tried a search of Colorado Law so I can cite it if needed but wanted to see if one of you may already have a link to the law stating what was said above. Having a hard time finding it.