The number of concealed-pistol licenses is growing in Washington and nowhere faster in recent months than in Pierce County, state data shows. As of July 31, the total number of concealed-carry permits statewide has surpassed 713,000, an increase of about 14,000 so far this year, marking the largest annual climb in Washington since 2022. With over 99,000 of those licenses in Pierce County, it trails only King County (114,000) in total permits. However, Pierce County has experienced the biggest recent growth of all counties, adding more than 3,300 licenses since February. Gun rights activists and experts attribute the rise in concealed-carry permits to a mix of factors, including the perception of increasing crime and the looming new permitting system for gun buyers in Washington. Dave Workman, editor-in-chief of The Gun Mag, cites a pattern seen across the U.S. in which people become more inclined to obtain firearms permits when gun-control laws are introduced. In particular, Washingtons House Bill 1163, which mandates safety training for firearm buyers and concealed-pistol license applicants, has accelerated this trend. Although the law doesnt take effect until May 1, 2027, many are rushing to obtain their permits in advance. A noticeable spike in licenses occurred in April and July, with many anticipating the forthcoming requirements for training. As a result, people seeking to avoid these new regulations are securing permits early. This has been the trend in Pierce County, where its blue-collar, middle-class environment seems to further fuel the rise in permit applications. Gun rights groups such as the Washington State Rifle and Pistol Association have voiced concerns that HB 1163 could face legal challenges once implemented. Jane Milhans, spokesperson for the association, argues that law-abiding citizens should not be penalized for exercising a constitutional right. Others, such as Gregory Joseph of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, believe the new law is a step forward in improving firearm safety by ensuring that concealed-pistol holders are well-trained and continuously vetted. Despite a general drop in violent crime in Washington, including a nearly 19% decrease in murders, concerns about safety have kept firearm and permit interest high. In particular, people in Pierce County, like Milhans, have noted a significant increase in the number of individuals, particularly women, signing up for concealed-carry training as a response to the growing awareness of crime. The rise in permit applications also coincides with a recent sharp decline in firearm sales across the state, further raising questions about how the two trends will interact moving forward. The relationship between concealed-carry permits and firearm sales is increasingly evident, with many permit holders also purchasing firearms for personal protection. Milhans has observed this trend in her classes, noting that people are actively seeking the right firearms for concealed carry. As the new law approaches, it remains to be seen how it will impact the future of firearm ownership and training in Washington. While gun rights advocates push for reform, safety advocates argue that these measures will bring about much-needed responsibility and regulation. The legislative battle is far from over, but the steady rise in concealed-carry permits suggests that Washingtonians are not waiting for the law to catch up.