When Do You Carry A Concealed Handgun?

by
posted on July 20, 2017
nra-carry-guard-expo-announcement-f.jpg (1)

Some people simply amaze me. Take, for instance, the folks who go to the trouble to obtain their concealed-carry license, spend good money on a concealed-carry gun and professional training and then only carry occasionally. In my neck of the woods, it is common to hear people say they really just want to be able to have a handgun in their vehicle. As well-intended as these people generally are, they are either misinformed or they are kidding themselves.

We carry defensive handguns simply because we don't know—and can't predict—when a criminal attack will occur. If we had any clue at all that someone was about to visit violence upon us, we would arm ourselves with a rifle or a shotgun. Or, here's a bizarre thought, we would just get out of the immediate area of the coming attack.

All one has to do is watch the news to quickly figure out that violent criminal attacks can occur at any place and at any time. They happen in cafeterias in Texas, public schools in Colorado, coffee shops in Oregon and post offices in New Hampshire. Criminal attacks occur in the sorriest parts of town and in the swankiest parts of town.

Also, from studying actual attacks, we know that you have probably lost if you can't immediately put your hand on your concealed-carry gun. If you have to go to your vehicle, go in the next room or move any distance at all, you will have probably lost the fight.

So I would suggest that people get serious about their personal defense. Study your choice of handguns, how you carry and what you wear. Make whatever adjustments are necessary so you can have your concealed-carry gun all the time. After all, having a gun is really the first—and most important—rule in winning a gunfight.

Latest

Viktos Counteract CCW Messenger Bag
Viktos Counteract CCW Messenger Bag

First Look: Viktos Counteract CCW Messenger Bag

Built to handle just about anything life throws at you.

First Look: Galco Triton 3.0 Holster For 3-Inch 1911 Pistols

Discreetly carry your smaller 1911 in this Kydex IWB holster.

Magtech 5.56 NATO Ball M193 Recall

The recall affects three lots of 55-grain FMJ rounds.

Looking Into A Mirror

Your emotions can be a useful tool for staying out of trouble.

First Look: Premier Body Armor Everyday Armor T-Shirt 360

A discreet way of making sure you're well-protected.

First Look: Laser Ammo Recoil 2011 Match King Laser Training Gun

A full-size training pistol with slide movement and recoil.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.