Gun Owners Defying the Law in Mexico

Cartels are armed while law abiding citizens must go through lengthy permit process

COLONIA LEBARON, Mexico—Mexico has some of the toughest gun-control laws in the world, but drug cartels have well-stocked arsenals. For law-abiding citizens, it's difficult and expensive to apply for a gun permit. It's why many gun owners decide to defy the law. 

The seemingly tranquil region at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains is home to some of Mexico's most avid gun owners.

"Just a local citizen? It's nearly impossible to own a gun—legally," said resident Brent LeBaron.