For MikeinPA:
What's the process for getting one?
Go to your local PD for the forms. They may direct you to the Sheriff's office.
You'll need two County residents as character references. . There's lines on the forms for them to sign.
The form also has a place to give your reason for getting the permit...Protection is a valid reason.
Return the forms to the PD or Sheriff (in York County, it's the Sheriff).
There'll be a background check...takes about two weeks.
Then, you go back to the Sheriff/PD for a photo ID and you can then carry any gun (concealed only...no open carry in PA).
The permit cost $20 or $21 for five years.
PA is a "shall issue" state. There is no discretion on the Sheriff's part...as long as you pass the background check, they have to issue the permit, so don't let anyone give you a hassle.
BTW, one of the Democratic runners for govenor is Ed Rendell, the former mayor of Philadelphia. He is vehemently anti-2nd Amendment Rights....vehemently! He's also one of the architects of the strategy to sue gun makers out of business.
Remember this when you vote!
The attached pic is a Kahr MK9, a 9mm double action only pistol. I normally carry this gun, a Taurus 85 Ultralite .38 Spl revolver or a Glock 19 (my favorite, but not the easiest to conceal considering how I dress).
I've had my permit for ten years or so.