Rave Reviews of “The Law of Self Defense, 3rd Edition”

The best information currently available.
No doubt the BEST information currently available from a guy who really cares about educating YOU about what’s best for YOU not just simple generalizations that may or may not fit. Andrew Branca and his information is exclusively what I recommend not only to my civilian students but my co-workers and other officers. I’m currently going through his LOSD Instructor program to get a deeper understanding of the material. So far worth every penny and some of the best training money I have ever spent.
— Jamie O.

The information in this book is invaluable for anyone who teaches or studies self-defense.
Andrew Branca’s Law of Self-Defense is the best treatment of the subject I’ve seen. The counselor doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the subject— for several concepts there are tables covering the nuanced differences in the law in all fifty states. Yet he has somehow made it accessible, clear and understandable. Even easy to read. Almost fun. The information in this book is invaluable for anyone who teaches or studies self-defense.
— Rory Miller, author of Facing Violence and Meditations on Violence

Only permanent fixture on my nightstand
Andrew’s book is the only permanent fixture on my nightstand, next to my Bible…. EVERYONE who carries or has a firearm for personal defense should read this very important work.
–Jacob Brown

This is the book you must have.
If you teach concealed carry, this is the book you must have. I have already read my autographed 3rd edition copy and it has additional info from the 2nd edition. Both are great.
–Roger Crawley

This book needs to be in your self-defense library.
This book needs to be in your self-defense library. Unlike many other self-defense books, this one teaches you how to think and and act so that your self-defense actions are both legally defensible and properly articulable. It is extremely well written and easy to understand. It is filled with charts breaking down critical self-defense laws and concepts by State, so when you travel you can easily determine the specific critical laws for that State.
— D. Levy

Get on it!
I confess, I am a consummate reader, I love books. I’m also a shooter and instructor.
This book by Andrew Branca should be on the book shelf of everyone that carrys for self defense.
All of my students should own this book because you heard me talk about defending yourself from the bad guys and the legal system. This justifies what I’ve said.
Find it a Amazon.com then put up a review. Get on it!
–Dave King

Super resource!
I’m a lawyer with considerable trial experience. I am also a certified firearms instructor. I regularly give classes on the Law of Self Defense and related issues involved in carrying a firearms for self protection and the protection of your family. Andrew’s book is first rate. It is a valuable resource and is written for a general audience. I highly recommend Andrew’s book.
–Tom (Amazon)

An absolutely indispensable book!
Just as with his earlier editions, author Andrew Branca has penned another extremely valuable book. While the five core principles remain the same, there is much new information in this edition. Additionally – as is always the case (or should be) – a new edition offers a chance to streamline the text, and to refresh approaches to material. Andrew has done that here, in ample measure.

In his typical, no-nonsense, easy to read, style, Andrew begins by explaining legal principles and the processes involved in the legal system’s approach to a deadly force incident. He then walks the reader through each of the five core elements of a self-defense claim. Andrew discusses different contexts for the use of force and also explains – in some detail – how to interact with the police following a use of force incident. Finally, he lays out the framework for a legally-sound defense strategy. All of this is done plainly, without the confusing legalese that often accompanies such a discussion. Many interesting, real-world examples are included, so the reader can see how things are likely to play out in the real world.

The book also lays out and discusses – in tabular fashion – the controlling statutes and case law for each state. This section, by itself, is worth more than the price of the book.

If you have not read Andrew’s work before, you’re in for a treat. Even if you already have the earlier editions, you definitely need to add this new edition to your bookshelf. No serious gun owner should be without the knowledge that it contains. Certainly, no firearms, use of force, or self-defense instructor, should be without it. That also goes for attorneys, as well as expert witness practitioners.
–S. Ashley

stop speculating about rumors and myths and get real answers
Just got the book yesterday and read it in one sitting. It is a must have for any gun owner, especially those of us who conceal carry. I’ve done a lot of due diligence since I got my ccw 10 years ago, researching what exactly are the laws (self-defense and any and all laws and issues related to ccw) as I have worked different security jobs over the years, armed and unarmed. So while not completely new to the concepts in the book, (but certainly not an expert like Mr. Branca, Mr. Ayoob, et al) it is the best presented and succinct source of information I have yet seen, and that makes it indispensable. It really helps clear up popular misconceptions about almost any aspect of self-defense and the respective laws, so people can stop speculating about rumors and myths and get real answers and information.
So if you want to cut through trying to discern facts from well-intended but mostly uninformed or incomplete opinions on the internet, or wrestling with the tomes of revised statutes for each state, and get down to brass tacks, get the book, read it, practice it, read it again, and be empowered and smart instead of wondering if you’re being empowered and smart.
–O

Rave Reviews of “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition”

Reading this book could save you a lot of headaches and heartbreak

If you are one of the 10 million concealed handgun permit holders in the US today and you should ever have to use your gun defensively, reading “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” could save you a lot of headaches and heartbreak. Anyone who paid attention to the George Zimmerman sage in Florida doesn’t need a reminder about the legal problems that even the most law-abiding, honest citizens can run into when they are forced to defend themselves. While the horrors faced by George Zimmerman are rare, it is hardly the only example where overzealous prosecutors or law enforcement have really turned the victim into a victim of the legal system. Andrew Branca is a lawyer who has a knack of explaining the law so that it is readily accessible to everyone. Having a gun when the police aren’t there to protect you can keep you alive, but understanding the material in this book can keep you out of jail to continue enjoying that life.
— John Lott, President Crime Prevention Research Center and the author of More Guns, Less Crime

The gold standard

“Taking Andrew Branca’s class would be not only a good idea, but an EXCELLENT idea. I’ve known him for many years. I thought his reportage from the courtroom in the Zimmerman case was the gold standard. By all means, take his course. I also recommend his new book, available through lawofselfdefense.com.”
— Massad Ayoob, Founder and Owner, Mas Ayoob Group (MAG) and Lethal Force Institute

Best self-defense law guide since sliced bread

I was taping a show today and totally recommended the hell out of “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition,” by Andrew Branca. Buy it. It’s the best self-defense law guide since sliced bread.
— Kurt Schlichter, writer for Breitbart.com’s Big Government, Big Journalism and Big Peace sites

Excellent guide to self-defense law, comprehensive information

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is an excellent guide with comprehensive state-by-state information.
— Stephen Halbrook, “That Every Man Be Armed”

Excellent guidance to gun owners

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” provides excellent guidance to gun-owners & gun-carriers. I recommend you get a copy!
— John Farnham, Defense Training International

This is a no-brainer. This book should be required reading.

Buy a copy of Andrew Branca’s The Law of Self Defense. This is a no-brainer. This book should be required reading for anyone who wants to be in charge of their own safety, not just concealed carry permit holders, because it lays out, in layman’s terms, what legal challenges you may face if you need to defend your life.
–Kevin Creighton, Ricochet

Concisely teaches principles of self-defense law

The value of “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is in the way it concisely teaches the principles of self-defense law.
— Gila Hayes, Armed Citizen Legal Defense Network

The owner’s manual for your concealed carry permit

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is the owner’s manual for your concealed carry permit.
— Ace of Spades HQ

Fantastic!

Just finished “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition,” it’s fantastic. Review.   Would love to host a seminar.

[And she did!] — Sandy O’Neal, Northwest Florida Firearms Training

This book will save your life

This book will save your life just as surely as your self defence training. I would advise anyone teaching self defence in the USA to buy “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition”.
— Paul “Rock” Higgins, VIPA Tactical Training (United Kingdom)

Your book made clear my understanding

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” did more to clear my understanding of the matter than anything else I’ve read or done.
— William Strunk, Jr.

Vital info for every gun owner.

Cranked through “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” in a day. Then re-read a week later. Vital info for every gun owner.
— Jerry McClellan

Only two books have changed my life . . .

Only 2 books have changed me, “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” and the Bible.
–Donnie Kingery

As important as your ammo selection for self-defense

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is as important as your gun and ammo selection for self-defense. Get yourself a copy.
–Ron Larimer, When the Balloon Goes Up

Great resource, well written, easy to digest

I just wanted to take a moment and say a thank you! I recently bought “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” and read through it in an afternoon. It was well written and very easy to digest for a book of legal resources. As a CT resident I have always tried to remain hyper vigilant in my knowledge of our statutes regarding firearms and self defense (a task that was much easier pre PA 13-3) but was always fairly convinced I was missing something. As you well know, our statutes regarding these matters are spread throughout a few sections of the General Statutes making it difficult to find everything that is relevant; the DESPP or any other state agency has no interest in compiling a list to make it easier for someone who doesn’t have hours of time to do legal research to read the laws. Your book was a great resource in this department because you had pointed out some of those statutes that I had missed and for this, I’m very grateful. The case law compiled by you is another extremely helpful resource.
–Matt Mucci, Connecticut

Should be included in all Criminal Justice programs.

Got “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” today. Your book should be included in all Criminal Justice programs. Very informative. Vital!
–Tim Prindle, OH

An outstanding book.  Love it.

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is an outstanding book. Love it.
–John Willett (USMC 1998-2002), BoldDeparture.com

Provides a wake-up call to beginner gun owners

I read “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” cover-to-cover and it was great. As an NRA pistol instructor I have recommended understanding the legal aspects of owning and carrying as a critical follow on to the basic pistol course, which in Virginia is the only formal training required to obtain a CCW permit. This book clearly provides a wake-up call to beginner gun owners as to their responsibilities and legal accountability and I recommend it highly.
–Jim Dullea

Tons of useful information, in easy-to-understand format

Just wanted to let you know that I received “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” the other day and I’m loving it! TONS of useful information presented in an easy-to-understand, legal fashion. It’s a great read and I’d like to personally thank you for sharing such invaluable knowledge to those of us who carry for personal protection. I’m very proficient with my firearms and have confidence in my ability to protect myself. And soon, after finishing your book, I hope to have more confidence in my ability to protect myself in the “legal machine” if ever need be. Again, great book and thank you!
— Jason Toelle

May be the most important book on the subject I’ve yet seen

May be the most important book on the subject that I’ve seen yet. Easy to read, set up in a logical sequence. You make points and then illustrated them with stories from real life to show the practical application. I’ve been teaching use of lethal force/self defense for 20 years and have served as an expert witness on self defense, and yet in just the first 10 minutes of skimming, I’ve already learned valuable information.
— Peter Burlingame, Self-Defense Initiative, US Virgin Islands

Will be terrified you’re carrying without this info

Anyone with a CCW will be astounded & terrified they’re carrying without having the info in “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition”. There’s so much to know!
— Dan Stewart

An essential read!

If you own a firearm or carry a handgun for self-defense, “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is an essential read!
— Peter Bossley

So good I ordered a second copy!

I bought “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” on Kindle. It’s so good that I just ordered a physical copy so I can mark it all up!
–Traci Davis

Like a legal seminar on self-defense

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is a must read. It is a law seminar in self defense for laymen.
–Jon Nials

Read to guard against predatory prosecutors

I keep and bear arms to guard against violence. I’m going to read “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” to guard against the likes of Angela Corey.
— R. Hart

Be prepared for the legal battle, hoping you’ll never need it

We CCW to be prepared for violence, hoping never use it. Read “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” to be prepared for the legal battle, hoping never need it.
— Chris T.

Can hardly put it down!

I just started reading “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” today and I can hardly put it down!
— Paula G.

If you own a gun, own this book

If you own a gun, own “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition.”
–D. Cole

You will thank God for when you need this book

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is the book you pray to never need, but will thank God (and Branca!) for when you do.
— @Scuds20

Like it so much I purchases a 2nd copy

I liked “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” so much that I purchased 2nd copy, 1 for reading and reference, 1 stored in the safe.
— James R.

Own firearms, then MUST own this book

If you own firearm for home defense, or carry a firearm, then you MUST have a copy of “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition.”
— Charles Riggs

One word: Excellent

Finished reading “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition”. One word: Excellent. Highly recommend that everyone read it, take it to heart.
— Harvey H.

Takes your self-defense knowledge to the next level

Reading “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” against backdrop of Zimmerman takes your self-defense knowledge to next level. Knowing weapon isn’t enough, know the law.
–Marcia D.

Much better informed and aware of the many legal risks of self-defense

Liked “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” a lot. Feel much better informed & aware of the many legal risks involved in the legitimate use of deadly force. “The Law of Self Defense” is every bit as important as the firearm and ammo. I view the book as a form of self-defense in itself.
— Dan S.

You aren’t carrying responsibly without this book

You aren’t carrying responsibly if haven’t absorbed “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition”. Self-defense law is not intuitive.
— Todd W.

Far more substantive than alternatives

Too many “experts” vaguely discuss these self-defense issues, but “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is far more substantive. Will recommend to others.”
— Michael B.

A must have for anyone that owns a gun, bought second copy

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” is a must-have for anyone that owns a gun. So valuable, I bought another to pass along.
— J. Chiles

Fantastic information!

Received my copy of “The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” yesterday! Fantastic information, thank you Andrew!
— B. Ball

Hooked form the first page, info is invaluable

I received my copy of “The Law of Self Defense” today. I was hooked from the p.1. As CCW license holder, info is invaluable.
— Marcia D.

The gold standard resource for the armed citizen

“The Law of Self Defense, 2nd Edition” has to be the gold standard resource for the armed citizen.
— J. M. Kopecky

Rave Reviews of the 1st Edition (from Amazon.com)

The laws, not the anecdotes

There is so much passion when discussing what “rights” an armed citizen has to shoot another human being, that is is terribly difficult to get any useful information. And trying to defend your actions because you read about some law in some gun magazine will make a pretty weak defense.

Andrew Branca, Esq., has written a very useful little book that eschews the hype and gets right down to the case law. The book is well organized into what the main defenses are for using deadly self-defense: Necessity, proportionality and reasonablness. He points out the unavoidable gray areas that permeate the court room, and show that no matter what the law says, if you shoot at someone, you had better have a pretty good reason. Jailhouse lawyering won’t do you any good.

Having hard data available instead of some gun enthusiast’s pontification is worth every penny.
Tom Holzel
Boston, MA

Decent Practical Advice

Branca’s book is a good overview of self-defense law, and supplements the reader researching (or hiring counsel to research) the specific law in his or her jurisdiction. The book introduces fundamental legal topics for the lay reader, while also laying out significant cases for the specialist.

The information is worth the investment of time and money.
Lisa J. Steele
Bolton, MA

A Must Read For The Gun Owner.

I picked up a copy of this book, and could not put it down. Mr Branca has written an excellent manual that all people who either own a gun, or who might be considering getting a gun, should definitely read. This book clearly lets the reader know, just what his rights and responsibilities are regarding gun ownership, and how to legally use his gun in defense of home and family. A great job on a difficult topic.

Required Reading!!!

The Law of Self-Defense is required reading for anyone who legally carries a concealed weapon, or who keeps a gun in the home or car for self-defense. The author has laid out a strategy that will keep the armed citizen out of legal trouble. The best strategy is to side-step confrontation–however, if the time comes that lethal force is the only option, the citizen familiar with the concepts of Andrew F. Branca’s The Law of Self-Defense will have a better chance of avoiding actions that could destroy his or her right to claim self-defense if the case comes to trial.

A must-read for all gun owners.

I have read Branca’s book and think that it should be required reading for anyone who owns, or is contemplating owning, a gun. More than just a reference, this book serves as an implicit warning that anyone in possession of a firearm is bound by the law to be an informed consumer and a conscientious citizen.

This book is required reading for all lawful gun owners.

Andrew Branca, an attorney and lawful gun owner, has produced an important essential book that is, in my opinion, a “must read” for anyone considering lawful gun ownership. The focus of this scholarly book pertains to the laws concerning use of a firearm in self-defense. Topics covered include the law of self-defense, duty (of the gun owner) to retreat, the “Castle doctrine”, excessive force, necessary and reasonable behaviour, and legal citations to recent case law in the U.S. This book dispells much of the incorrect, confusing and potentially dangerous information offered by well-intentioned but uniformed gun owners. The book is well-written, carefully researched and should be essential reading for all lawful gun owners

For everyone interested in gun ownership and self defense

Mr Branca has written a book which explains in detail the legalities of owning and using a gun in defense of self and family, and has succeeded wonderfully in making a difficult subject easy for everyone to understand.

very good,

If you’re going to own a gun, read this. It will open your eyes to gun laws and self defense.