Benefits of a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona

We've gotten the question here a bunch of times, "Arizona is a constitutional carry state, why would I bother getting a Concealed Weapons Permit?" So here's a list of reasons in no particular order. It's probably not complete, feel free to add any you're aware of.

• Holding a CCW permit grants you the ability to carry a concealed firearm in many other states (37 at the time of this post). Arizona DPS maintains the list here, and notably all the states that border AZ except CA currently have reciprocity for Arizona resident permits. Non-resident permits may not be honored, check the specific state's reciprocal agreement or statutes for details on that. Colorado, for example, does not honor non-resident permits.
• A good CCW permit class will include an overview of deadly force law in Arizona. Knowing the law is a good way to avoid getting yourself into unnecessary trouble. Even if you never carry it, if you own a gun for self-defense purposes then it is your responsibility to know the law.
• An Arizona CCW permit allows you to skip NICS checks at Arizona FFLs. You still have to fill out a 4473, but your FFL will not have to call the feds to get permission to sell you a gun. Sometimes FFLs will let you skip the line to buy a gun if you have your CCW because it's just that much easier for them.
• You can carry a firearm in an establishment that serves alcohol for consumption on the premises. Without a CCW permit, restaurants with a liquor license are off limits for carry. "No guns" signs do have the force of law in restaurants with liquor licenses but there are strict requirements for signage that must be followed for them to be enforceable.
• Some private sellers will not sell to you without a CCW permit as fast-and-loose proof that you're not a prohibited person.
• Some classes require a CCW for the same reason. Massad Ayoob Group classes, for example, require a CCW permit or other proof of clean background.