Parallax
January 28, 2005, 01:37 PM
If you live in an area where open carry is illegal, and it was legalized, would you open carry?
Would you open carry if it was legal?
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R.H. Lee
January 28, 2005, 01:39 PM
Unless it were common practice (like that's gonna happen), no. It would only upset people.
Thumper
January 28, 2005, 01:41 PM
Sometimes. Depends on my surroundings.
xenobia
January 28, 2005, 01:41 PM
Sure. But then again I enjoy playing with people's perceptions. ;)
lostone1413
January 28, 2005, 01:45 PM
At times I carry open. Guess I look at it as a right and if you don't use it you will lose it
TheFederalistWeasel
January 28, 2005, 01:48 PM
No, I don't want anyone knowing I'm armed unless I'm in uniform.
Joe Demko
January 28, 2005, 01:51 PM
Open carry is legal here; there are no laws saying otherwise. I do not open carry except in uniform. Like weasel, I don't want anyone knowing whether or not I'm armed.
mjb
January 28, 2005, 01:59 PM
No I wouldn't unless my car was to brake down and I was alone on the side of the road. A firearm in open site could deter someone who might try to rob you. I feel more comfortable with concealed carry in most situations. Unless I am in uniform, having a gun in the open raises a red flag for a lot of people.
Ktulu
January 28, 2005, 02:02 PM
It seems to be legal here in MI but I don't carry openly because it's asking for trouble.
There have been few times that I almost did it running into a store in the spring or fall when I've taken my jacket off in the car. I still might do it someday but I'm not go out of my way and I'm not going to make a habit of it.
There have been few times that I almost did it running into a store in the spring or fall when I've taken my jacket off in the car. I still might do it someday but I'm not go out of my way and I'm not going to make a habit of it.
longeyes
January 28, 2005, 02:09 PM
Academic for me at this time but...
No.
Surprise is best.
No.
Surprise is best.
Beren
January 28, 2005, 02:09 PM
It's legal in my state (Pennylvania.) I generally don't open carry because, gasp, I am "sensitive" to the foibles of others and don't wish to cause them needless concern. That said, I don't sweat it if my firearm is exposed for whatever reason.
To me, carrying openly on city streets as a general practice is as sensible as wearing one's underwear on their head. Sure, you can do it, and it's legal, but why on Earth would you bother as a general rule? If you can legally conceal, I consider it only polite to do so.
Out in the woods or on your own property is a different matter; I do wear my underwear on my head sometimes when I'm hiking. Great moisture wiking! ;)
To me, carrying openly on city streets as a general practice is as sensible as wearing one's underwear on their head. Sure, you can do it, and it's legal, but why on Earth would you bother as a general rule? If you can legally conceal, I consider it only polite to do so.
Out in the woods or on your own property is a different matter; I do wear my underwear on my head sometimes when I'm hiking. Great moisture wiking! ;)
flatrock
January 28, 2005, 02:11 PM
It's legal where I live, but except for very limited situations, I don't carry openly.
There's simply too much danger of causing unwanted attention and bad plublicity for gun owners.
I can see how there could be a benefit to people getting more used to seeing people go areound openly armed, but I'm a bit concerned about the reactions of poorly informed law enforcement as well as possible repercussions at work if word travels to them that I go around carrying a gun openly.
I cannot carry at work due to a relatively new company policy forbidding it, as well as the building being posted by the company that leases it to our company.
There's simply too much danger of causing unwanted attention and bad plublicity for gun owners.
I can see how there could be a benefit to people getting more used to seeing people go areound openly armed, but I'm a bit concerned about the reactions of poorly informed law enforcement as well as possible repercussions at work if word travels to them that I go around carrying a gun openly.
I cannot carry at work due to a relatively new company policy forbidding it, as well as the building being posted by the company that leases it to our company.
Guy B. Meredith
January 28, 2005, 02:37 PM
Depends on the neighborhood. Definitely not in downtown Oakland, CA. That would be an open invitation to ne'er do wells. On the other hand, hiking areas might be okay.
I would prefer concealed without penalty for not being under deep cover.
I would prefer concealed without penalty for not being under deep cover.
PaulBk
January 28, 2005, 02:54 PM
Nope. Technically, WA is an open carry state, but I see absolutely no reason to carry open. For the same reason there are no NRA, RKBA, etc stickers on my vehicle. I prefer a low profile approach to life.
-PB
-PB
LaVere
January 28, 2005, 03:09 PM
It is legal in Michigan and so states in the Michigan Consitution.
But I havent yet. CCW for 4 years though.
Some malls or other area can ask you to leave if you have a gun or some other reason. No since making a fuss and being asked to leave and maybe NEVER return.
But I havent yet. CCW for 4 years though.
Some malls or other area can ask you to leave if you have a gun or some other reason. No since making a fuss and being asked to leave and maybe NEVER return.
LSCurrier
January 28, 2005, 03:15 PM
I would!
And I wish that others would as well. It would do well for non-gun people to get used to people having guns about. It would allow them to see that every gun carrying person doesn't start shooting things up for no reason.
I wish that I could carry concealed or in-the-open, but alas this is not possible for me as I live in the Peoples Republic of New York. :banghead:
Luke
And I wish that others would as well. It would do well for non-gun people to get used to people having guns about. It would allow them to see that every gun carrying person doesn't start shooting things up for no reason.
I wish that I could carry concealed or in-the-open, but alas this is not possible for me as I live in the Peoples Republic of New York. :banghead:
Luke
12-34hom
January 28, 2005, 03:28 PM
No on the open carry, nobodys bizz but mine while armed in public, unless on duty.
I'm into the low key mode myself.
12-34hom.
I'm into the low key mode myself.
12-34hom.
jsalcedo
January 28, 2005, 03:33 PM
YES
I am sick and tired of my concealed weapon digging into my side, getting covered in sweat and lint. Texas 110 degree heat does not lend itself
to proper concealed carry clothing.
Open carry would also allow me to carry a larger more accurate weapon.
A BG would probably think twice about messing with an openly armed citizen.
They are cowards and usually go for the weakest targets.
I am sick and tired of my concealed weapon digging into my side, getting covered in sweat and lint. Texas 110 degree heat does not lend itself
to proper concealed carry clothing.
Open carry would also allow me to carry a larger more accurate weapon.
A BG would probably think twice about messing with an openly armed citizen.
They are cowards and usually go for the weakest targets.
Evil_Ed
January 28, 2005, 03:41 PM
Yes, if it were legal I would open carry every day.
Of course, I would have a concealed back up gun just in case.
Of course, I would have a concealed back up gun just in case.
George S.
January 28, 2005, 04:26 PM
No I would not. Open carry is (and may always be) an issue with people who are afraid of guns. While some businesses have signs that state they do not allow weapons in their store, open carry may convince even more stores to post signs.
A private business is free to have such a policy and think what would happen if say all the grocery stores in a town were to post a no carry sign. Or all of the clothing stores.
If a BG sees somebody with a gun, he may be less likely to attempt criminal action, or he may do something from a distance or wait for an opportunity to attack. There could be even be a slight advantage to the crook if he knows somebody is armed and can create a plan to deal with it.
I would much rather keep a BG guessing or a shopkeeper in the dark about whether or not I am armed.
A private business is free to have such a policy and think what would happen if say all the grocery stores in a town were to post a no carry sign. Or all of the clothing stores.
If a BG sees somebody with a gun, he may be less likely to attempt criminal action, or he may do something from a distance or wait for an opportunity to attack. There could be even be a slight advantage to the crook if he knows somebody is armed and can create a plan to deal with it.
I would much rather keep a BG guessing or a shopkeeper in the dark about whether or not I am armed.
Hawkmoon
January 28, 2005, 04:28 PM
If you live in an area where open carry is illegal, and it was legalized, would you open carry?
Yes
Yes
Guy B. Meredith
January 28, 2005, 04:32 PM
Open carry may intimidate BGs going single or groups of two or three, but where half the neighborhood is a gang there is no intimidation, just challenge.
Old NFO
January 28, 2005, 04:45 PM
Not for me- Low key, no stickers on vehicles, etc. Only ones that know I carry are my two LEO neighbors and that's from the range.
I want all the advantage of surprise I can get. :D
I want all the advantage of surprise I can get. :D
CentralTexas
January 28, 2005, 04:45 PM
Every frickin day!
ctdonath
January 28, 2005, 05:53 PM
The only chance I ever got to carry openly was a visit to Taos, NM - and it felt good. Armed without worry ("is it hidden? does it show? is it legal?") is a good thing.
So long as I was sure I would not be detained for doing so, YES I WOULD CARRY OPENLY.
Yes, there is an argument for not scaring sheep, and not letting perps know who is armed.
There is also an argument for getting the sheep used to the situation ("gee, he's got a gun - and nothing bad happened!"), and letting perps know who not to mess with ("he's not a sheep; let's go find easier prey").
Concealed carry supports a culture of fear: your fear you might be "made", your fear someone might find out and freak, sheeple's fear of guns when seen (they only come out when bad things are about to happen), sheeple's fear that someone might be armed, etc.
Open carry, given time for the sheeple to get used to it, eliminates fear. You don't worry about carrying, sheeple don't get scared from seeing guns, even perps simply move on to a safer target (like an unoccupied car).
There is a reason concealed carry used to be considered bad and open carry good: only perps hid their power, and gentlemen wore it proudly.
Let's return to that.
So long as I was sure I would not be detained for doing so, YES I WOULD CARRY OPENLY.
Yes, there is an argument for not scaring sheep, and not letting perps know who is armed.
There is also an argument for getting the sheep used to the situation ("gee, he's got a gun - and nothing bad happened!"), and letting perps know who not to mess with ("he's not a sheep; let's go find easier prey").
Concealed carry supports a culture of fear: your fear you might be "made", your fear someone might find out and freak, sheeple's fear of guns when seen (they only come out when bad things are about to happen), sheeple's fear that someone might be armed, etc.
Open carry, given time for the sheeple to get used to it, eliminates fear. You don't worry about carrying, sheeple don't get scared from seeing guns, even perps simply move on to a safer target (like an unoccupied car).
There is a reason concealed carry used to be considered bad and open carry good: only perps hid their power, and gentlemen wore it proudly.
Let's return to that.
Jay Kominek
January 28, 2005, 05:59 PM
Open carry may intimidate BGs going single or groups of two or three, but where half the neighborhood is a gang there is no intimidation, just challenge.
...if you're going somewhere where half the neighborhood is considered hostile, you need something that can't be concealed. And backup. Or just stay home.
Are there any known cases of a bad guy specifically targetting someone because they were carrying openly?
...if you're going somewhere where half the neighborhood is considered hostile, you need something that can't be concealed. And backup. Or just stay home.
Are there any known cases of a bad guy specifically targetting someone because they were carrying openly?
BB62
January 28, 2005, 06:18 PM
It depends on where I was going, but YES. Not all the time, though.
It supposedly is legal in Ohio, but many cities will be glad to nail you for "disturbing the peace" or somesuch.
BB62
It supposedly is legal in Ohio, but many cities will be glad to nail you for "disturbing the peace" or somesuch.
BB62
HungSquirrel
January 28, 2005, 06:34 PM
ctdonath, well put! I couldn't have said it better!
Are there any known cases of a bad guy specifically targetting someone because they were carrying openly?
I too wonder this. Unless there are cases where this has happened, I think the fear of a BG knowing you are armed well before the attack begins is unfounded. Bad things happen when BGs find out you're armed AFTER the attack begins. If they see you are armed beforehand, they'll seek easier pickin's.
Alabama has no Constitutional provision or statute banning OR allowing open carry. Because it is not explicitely prohibited, the state AG issued an opinion in the mid-80s that it was legal, even without a CCW. Would you guys recommend I carried openly where it wasn't explicitely permitted by law but rather by a 20-year-old AG opinion? At least you can still find it on the Alabama website.
http://www.ago.state.al.us/oldopinions/8400205.pdf
Should I call around to some local PDs and ask them how they would treat someone who carried openly?
Are there any known cases of a bad guy specifically targetting someone because they were carrying openly?
I too wonder this. Unless there are cases where this has happened, I think the fear of a BG knowing you are armed well before the attack begins is unfounded. Bad things happen when BGs find out you're armed AFTER the attack begins. If they see you are armed beforehand, they'll seek easier pickin's.
Alabama has no Constitutional provision or statute banning OR allowing open carry. Because it is not explicitely prohibited, the state AG issued an opinion in the mid-80s that it was legal, even without a CCW. Would you guys recommend I carried openly where it wasn't explicitely permitted by law but rather by a 20-year-old AG opinion? At least you can still find it on the Alabama website.
http://www.ago.state.al.us/oldopinions/8400205.pdf
Should I call around to some local PDs and ask them how they would treat someone who carried openly?
Valkman
January 28, 2005, 07:00 PM
It's legal here but there's no reason to, as it's also a shall-issue state. I have a CCW permit so no, I wouldn't.
BB62
January 28, 2005, 07:07 PM
"Should I call around..."
You could certainly do that, but unless you get someone of very high rank to answer your question, and I would suggest you put in writing your understanding of things, I would forget about it.
Why do I say so? Months after the Ohio Supreme Court "legitimized" open carry a friend called local police to ask about doing so. He was told a) you need a license to do so (there was and is no such thing), and b) "NO".
Just the other day I spoke to 4 people at our county Sheriff's office about to whom I needed to present my certification for teaching CCW courses. The answers were a) the state Attorney General (huh) and b) you need to fill out an application (not). Finally I asked for the office where CHL's are issued and got to a party who knew what the story was.
I hope the above shows you that there is no way a phone call is going to be enough.
Depending on the size of your city, a letter to and a response from the the local prosecuting attorney would do nicely IMHO, though.
BB62
You could certainly do that, but unless you get someone of very high rank to answer your question, and I would suggest you put in writing your understanding of things, I would forget about it.
Why do I say so? Months after the Ohio Supreme Court "legitimized" open carry a friend called local police to ask about doing so. He was told a) you need a license to do so (there was and is no such thing), and b) "NO".
Just the other day I spoke to 4 people at our county Sheriff's office about to whom I needed to present my certification for teaching CCW courses. The answers were a) the state Attorney General (huh) and b) you need to fill out an application (not). Finally I asked for the office where CHL's are issued and got to a party who knew what the story was.
I hope the above shows you that there is no way a phone call is going to be enough.
Depending on the size of your city, a letter to and a response from the the local prosecuting attorney would do nicely IMHO, though.
BB62
sterculius_number_II
January 28, 2005, 07:19 PM
Not ordinarily I wouldn't. Not in town, anyway,
Where I live open carry is technically legal, on paper.
But it is emphatically *not* socially accepted. Here, people will call the police on you for having a *cane*. And the police *will* show up, in force, and detain you and question you and run a warrant check on you -- for walking with a cane.
If you went around with a gun carried openly, all the little old ladies (and all your personal enemies) would be punching 9-1-1 and screaming "Oh my God! He's got a *GUN*!! Aaaagh!! Come quick!!" every time they saw you.
A *lot* of people here have been charged with things like "disturbing the peace" for carrying openly. And they nearly all got convicted, or were forced to accept essentially coerced plea agreements.
Oddly enough, the cops here all carry openly when in plain clothes or when off duty and out of uniform. They seem to get a bang out of it. Go figure.
Sterculius
Where I live open carry is technically legal, on paper.
But it is emphatically *not* socially accepted. Here, people will call the police on you for having a *cane*. And the police *will* show up, in force, and detain you and question you and run a warrant check on you -- for walking with a cane.
If you went around with a gun carried openly, all the little old ladies (and all your personal enemies) would be punching 9-1-1 and screaming "Oh my God! He's got a *GUN*!! Aaaagh!! Come quick!!" every time they saw you.
A *lot* of people here have been charged with things like "disturbing the peace" for carrying openly. And they nearly all got convicted, or were forced to accept essentially coerced plea agreements.
Oddly enough, the cops here all carry openly when in plain clothes or when off duty and out of uniform. They seem to get a bang out of it. Go figure.
Sterculius
HungSquirrel
January 28, 2005, 07:21 PM
It would help if you mentioned where you live or put it in your profile. :)
P95Carry
January 28, 2005, 07:32 PM
Where I live open carry is technically legal, on paper. sterculius_number_II - you do not show your area ... so where would this be? Obviously not DC or Chicago! ;)
RyanM
January 28, 2005, 08:09 PM
If concealed carry were illegal and open carry were legal, I'd carry openly. Similarly, I probably might if I were hunting, hiking, or engaged in some other activity where a handgun is not particularly unusal. That's about it, though.
kel
January 28, 2005, 08:35 PM
Mainly for the political statement.
beerslurpy
January 28, 2005, 09:00 PM
Nope. If I am going to shoot someone, I want it to be a surprise. I'm not worried about taking down someone who will be intimidated by the sight of someone open carrying. I care more about getting the drop on the guy who will kill anyone with a gun first. Better to win every confrontation than to avoid the easy half.
Also, concealed carrying makes it easier to spot trouble since people will assume you arent armed and will act less inhibited. It forces you to defuse situations without revealing you have a gun.
Plus, I love my p3at.
Maybe it would be better to get everyone used to the idea of open carry, but Florida is too dependent on GFW tourists to permit that. Disney would probably go nuts. Do they permit CCW in the theme parks in orlando? Anyone know?
Also, concealed carrying makes it easier to spot trouble since people will assume you arent armed and will act less inhibited. It forces you to defuse situations without revealing you have a gun.
Plus, I love my p3at.
Maybe it would be better to get everyone used to the idea of open carry, but Florida is too dependent on GFW tourists to permit that. Disney would probably go nuts. Do they permit CCW in the theme parks in orlando? Anyone know?
Edmond
January 28, 2005, 09:06 PM
I would not carry openly. I would prefer concealed.
NMshooter
January 28, 2005, 09:11 PM
Open carry has been legal in NM longer than this state has existed. ;)
Sometimes I do, most of the time I don't.
Never seen anyone freak out about it though.
More common the further away from Albuquerque (and Santa Fe :rolleyes: ) you are.
Sometimes I do, most of the time I don't.
Never seen anyone freak out about it though.
More common the further away from Albuquerque (and Santa Fe :rolleyes: ) you are.
Zonamo
January 28, 2005, 09:12 PM
One nice thing about living in an open carry state is not having to worry about an accidental exposure of a weapon, which can happen to the most conscientious and careful CCW holder.
It is also a lot less cumbersome to open carry when traipsing around out in the boonies.
It is also a lot less cumbersome to open carry when traipsing around out in the boonies.
Standing Wolf
January 28, 2005, 09:15 PM
Open carry is legal in Colorado—Denver excepted, of course. I carry openly about a third of the time.
mcooper
January 28, 2005, 09:31 PM
I am 18 going on 19 this spring...thanks to current laws I can't get a CCW until I am 21. But in Ms I can legally open carry here. Have I done it much? No. I can carry concealed at home and on family land. I carry open in my car when not at college, and I will probably open carry much more this summer.
Now, if you can concealed carry (legally), then open carry isn't nessesarily your best option. For me it is my only option. And to pre-empt possible comments . Remeber I am 18 and have the right to vote, have many of the rights of those 21 and older, I however have ALL of the responsiblities. I could go on...but I just don't want anyone to make any such comments with out first thinking.
Now, if you can concealed carry (legally), then open carry isn't nessesarily your best option. For me it is my only option. And to pre-empt possible comments . Remeber I am 18 and have the right to vote, have many of the rights of those 21 and older, I however have ALL of the responsiblities. I could go on...but I just don't want anyone to make any such comments with out first thinking.
Parallax
January 29, 2005, 12:39 AM
Oops, I meant to put this in the "tactics" section. It didn't make much difference though. I see most people would prefer to have their weapons concealed. I can think of advantages and disadvantages to both, but I don't think I would open carry if I could.
moby clarke
January 29, 2005, 12:40 AM
In MN our permit is to carry, period. I openly carry about half the time depending on where I am going. I have had many good experiences and only one time did I scare a sheeple. Keep in mind that Minneapolis is a very liberal strong hold. But as someone said, I do it a lot for the statement and to show that not everyone who has a gun is a bad guy.
Bad Words
January 29, 2005, 12:44 AM
I live in Seattle. It is legal to open carry so long as it's "in a manner that does not warrant alarm" or something like that. If it were black and white, and legal, I would open carry.
ChopperKen
January 29, 2005, 12:57 AM
Yes I would open carry, and have a extra hidden :evil:
DarkKnight01
January 29, 2005, 01:18 AM
It depends where I was and what I was doing, so if it were legal I wouldnt open carry all the time, But I think having the option to do so anywhere anytime would be a good thing.
Lone_Gunman
January 29, 2005, 03:14 PM
I don't think it is polite to carry openly in public.
Sistema1927
January 29, 2005, 03:21 PM
In some places (like Catron County) you are considered strange if you don't have one strapped on!
PaleRyder
January 29, 2005, 03:55 PM
Technically, open carry in Indiana is legal. I still wouldn't do it.
I'd love to live in a society where everyone can openly carry without upsetting others, but we don't have it.
I'd love to live in a society where everyone can openly carry without upsetting others, but we don't have it.
Standing Wolf
January 29, 2005, 09:16 PM
I'd love to live in a society where everyone can openly carry without upsetting others, but we don't have it.
I'd love to live in a color-blind society, but we don't have it.
I'd love to live in a color-blind society, but we don't have it.
bpisler
January 30, 2005, 10:38 AM
Yes i would,in fact i've been doing just that for the last 13 years.
PaleRyder
January 30, 2005, 11:53 AM
"I'd love to live in a color-blind society, but we don't have it."
Actually, I would love that also. I'd prefer a society where there are no prejudices of any kind. Live and let live.
Actually, I would love that also. I'd prefer a society where there are no prejudices of any kind. Live and let live.
bamawrx
January 30, 2005, 12:14 PM
I have open carried in Alabama during one tense period. It was the Hurricane Ivan aftermath Sept 2004. I live in an area that was truly decimated. It was during this period that it became evident to me that laws restricting open carry will come to haunt you if you find yourself in a manmade or natural disaster. All day and night you heard a seemingly constant flow of sirens. It was common knowledge that the police were in way over their heads, and just exactly how were you to call them? Cell phone didn’t work, no power, phones were down in some areas, and the roads were impassible. People that did not belong in the area suddenly were everywhere, some for good others for ill. I carried my .45 on my hip everywhere I went and had NOT A SINLGE comment. Absolutely no one mentioned the weapon. I felt more secure and I sense my neighbors did too.
I do not open carry otherwise and have not since, but this experience has taught me a valuable lesson. We need to make sure our laws allow drastic measures for drastic times. I had to cover my weapon while in a vehicle to comply with the law and did so willingly. But without the open carry AG opinion my efforts to secure my neighborhood would have been hampered. The visible presence of the arm helped to set a tone with the non-resident foot traffic that this is a bad place to hang out. We experienced no incidents of theft or other problems that were happening all around us. If things had degraded only slightly, I may have needed to resort to a more capable weapon system (long gun/shotgun). Thankfully, we made it through a very difficult couple of weeks without incident.
I do not open carry otherwise and have not since, but this experience has taught me a valuable lesson. We need to make sure our laws allow drastic measures for drastic times. I had to cover my weapon while in a vehicle to comply with the law and did so willingly. But without the open carry AG opinion my efforts to secure my neighborhood would have been hampered. The visible presence of the arm helped to set a tone with the non-resident foot traffic that this is a bad place to hang out. We experienced no incidents of theft or other problems that were happening all around us. If things had degraded only slightly, I may have needed to resort to a more capable weapon system (long gun/shotgun). Thankfully, we made it through a very difficult couple of weeks without incident.
Lone_Gunman
January 30, 2005, 12:18 PM
My mamma always made me take off my cap guns before sitting down for dinner when I was a boy.
I think this would have applied to real guns as well in polite society.
I think this would have applied to real guns as well in polite society.
thorn726
January 30, 2005, 01:18 PM
Absolutely no one mentioned the weapon. I felt more secure and I sense my neighbors did too
that whole story makes a whole lot of good sense. emergency times, you need the extra protection, and i bet your neighbors appreciated it.
i wonder what it would be like here in the city.
if all the gang bangers had their stuff out always.
it's a tough scenario to imagine. everyone can carry openly, all the time.
you would have a lot of people hiding theirs anyway.
man this is a real mind boggler.
because here there is more than just self defence, or making people around you afraid, you have the whole gangster idiot i am tougher than you culture.
like if the piece on my hip is too big, i might have to prove i can use it type of stupidity.
for most people, i see it as well, if everyone did it, we'd all probably be a bit safer.
BUT= in the gangster/turf/hood scenarios?????
im clueless.
worse or better??????
that whole story makes a whole lot of good sense. emergency times, you need the extra protection, and i bet your neighbors appreciated it.
i wonder what it would be like here in the city.
if all the gang bangers had their stuff out always.
it's a tough scenario to imagine. everyone can carry openly, all the time.
you would have a lot of people hiding theirs anyway.
man this is a real mind boggler.
because here there is more than just self defence, or making people around you afraid, you have the whole gangster idiot i am tougher than you culture.
like if the piece on my hip is too big, i might have to prove i can use it type of stupidity.
for most people, i see it as well, if everyone did it, we'd all probably be a bit safer.
BUT= in the gangster/turf/hood scenarios?????
im clueless.
worse or better??????
HungSquirrel
January 30, 2005, 02:21 PM
bamawrx, thanks for sharing your story. What part of Alabama do you live in? I live in Baldwin County. We got NAILED by the eye as it was coming ashore. I've never been nervous in a hurricane before, but Ivan got me close to being nervous. :uhoh:
If one were to open carry in Alabama I suggest keeping a printout of the AG decision in one's wallet.
If one were to open carry in Alabama I suggest keeping a printout of the AG decision in one's wallet.
wheelgunslinger
January 30, 2005, 03:08 PM
I used to carry a ruger bisley vaquero openly when I worked in the log cabin restoration business. I drove a jeep and couldn't secure the weapon inside (soft top) when I went into businesses. So, I just kept it on and went about my business.
Diners, Hardware stores, and gas stations never had any problem.
However, a color case hardened sixgun in a padded uncle mike's holster is less of a visual threat than a cutting edge autopistol with a tac-light.
I had sheriff's deputy's nod at me while I was eating lunch in restaurants. Never a single panicky word though.
But, for anyone living in a populous area, carrying open is a big bag of worms. Especially if you run into a LEO having a bad day. (Or if he got picked on a lot in High School...)
Previous poster was right. You'd better carry a copy of the law that says you can in your pocket.
As I recall, North Carolina has a "brandishing" law as well as one that mentions "public panic" or some such. Either can be twisted to curtail open carry at a dpeartment's discretion.
Diners, Hardware stores, and gas stations never had any problem.
However, a color case hardened sixgun in a padded uncle mike's holster is less of a visual threat than a cutting edge autopistol with a tac-light.
I had sheriff's deputy's nod at me while I was eating lunch in restaurants. Never a single panicky word though.
But, for anyone living in a populous area, carrying open is a big bag of worms. Especially if you run into a LEO having a bad day. (Or if he got picked on a lot in High School...)
Previous poster was right. You'd better carry a copy of the law that says you can in your pocket.
As I recall, North Carolina has a "brandishing" law as well as one that mentions "public panic" or some such. Either can be twisted to curtail open carry at a dpeartment's discretion.
Ron_Miami
January 30, 2005, 03:25 PM
I usually conceal wearing a suit.
I would love to be able to put fuel in my car without having to put my coat on. Unfortunately, that's not possible in Florida.
I would love to be able to put fuel in my car without having to put my coat on. Unfortunately, that's not possible in Florida.
727 torqueflight
January 30, 2005, 06:18 PM
i would love to one day see open carry of firearms legal
capnrik
January 30, 2005, 08:29 PM
I'm a Texan. Open carry is illegal in my state. If that were to change, I'd have to have a new barbeque gun, and some new clothes.
Sign me up for a US Firearms Single Action in .44 Special with a 5 1/2 inch barrel. The gun would be nickel; on a blackpowder frame, and it would have elephant ivory stocks. It would have my signature on the back strap, and it would be consecutive serial numbered to a gun I would present to a friend of mine.
I would carry it in a crossdraw holster and I would make damn sure that my jeans were always starched, my shirt crisp, clean and ironed, and I'd have Ben Wheeler's kid make me a new pair of boots.
When I would wear this gun, my body language would be friendly, my appearance non threatening, and I'd be paying attention.
Come to think of it, I guess not much would be different, except the new boots..... :(
Sign me up for a US Firearms Single Action in .44 Special with a 5 1/2 inch barrel. The gun would be nickel; on a blackpowder frame, and it would have elephant ivory stocks. It would have my signature on the back strap, and it would be consecutive serial numbered to a gun I would present to a friend of mine.
I would carry it in a crossdraw holster and I would make damn sure that my jeans were always starched, my shirt crisp, clean and ironed, and I'd have Ben Wheeler's kid make me a new pair of boots.
When I would wear this gun, my body language would be friendly, my appearance non threatening, and I'd be paying attention.
Come to think of it, I guess not much would be different, except the new boots..... :(
bamawrx
January 31, 2005, 02:25 PM
I live in Atmore, which is on the Baldwin/Escambia County line. As you know the eye moved north/easterly and passed directly over us. The tornadoes were numerous and audible. That was the scary part. Any good places to shoot in your area? I am considering moving to Baldwin in the next year or so.
And yes, I agree the AG letter print out would be a must for anyone wishing to test the waters so to speak. I didn't have the opportunity to take the letter as I had no power to print it out. I'll need to think ahead next time.
And yes, I agree the AG letter print out would be a must for anyone wishing to test the waters so to speak. I didn't have the opportunity to take the letter as I had no power to print it out. I'll need to think ahead next time.
HungSquirrel
January 31, 2005, 03:39 PM
I do my shooting on my grandpa's forty a few miles west of Summerdale. There's a shooting range at the Wilcox Rd. exit off I-10, the first exit east of 59. There's also an indoor range at a pawn shop in Daphne.
Where I currently live (Mobile) I don't think I'll risk open carry. A) It's a city and B) I live on a university campus, so keeping a gun here would be iffy.
Where I currently live (Mobile) I don't think I'll risk open carry. A) It's a city and B) I live on a university campus, so keeping a gun here would be iffy.
Soap
February 1, 2005, 12:01 AM
It is, and I do it from time-to-time.
Sam
February 1, 2005, 12:31 AM
Like Systema said, around here no one cares either way.
Sam
Sam
Bubbles
February 1, 2005, 08:50 AM
Open carry is not only legal in Virginia, it's the only lawful way to carry a firearm into a restaurant with a license to serve alcohol. So yes, I've done it, even in the left-leaning suburbs of northern Virginia.
People either 1) don't notice, or 2) don't care.
People either 1) don't notice, or 2) don't care.
Firethorn
February 1, 2005, 09:36 AM
How about this one, MallNinja:
A fast open carry holster is faster than a fast concealed carry holster. For one thing, you don't generally have to move clothing out of the way.
As we approach the ideal of everbody(not locked up for being a criminal or insane) carrying arms, open carry starts making more sense in that the sheepdogs are outnumbering the sheep, so looking like a sheep is no longer such an advantage. Having that extra speed can be handy.
A fast open carry holster is faster than a fast concealed carry holster. For one thing, you don't generally have to move clothing out of the way.
As we approach the ideal of everbody(not locked up for being a criminal or insane) carrying arms, open carry starts making more sense in that the sheepdogs are outnumbering the sheep, so looking like a sheep is no longer such an advantage. Having that extra speed can be handy.
richyoung
February 1, 2005, 04:01 PM
were it legal, I would strap on the heater every time I left the house....
Lennyjoe
February 1, 2005, 04:55 PM
Did it this weekend as a matter in fact.
After the THR Buckeye AZ several of us went to Sonic for lunch. Myself, Sumpnz and Len in Phoenix were all open carrying cause it was warm enough to wear a t-shirt.
Love to see the looks on the sheeples faces when 3 guys walk up in jeans, tee's and sidearms. :D
After the THR Buckeye AZ several of us went to Sonic for lunch. Myself, Sumpnz and Len in Phoenix were all open carrying cause it was warm enough to wear a t-shirt.
Love to see the looks on the sheeples faces when 3 guys walk up in jeans, tee's and sidearms. :D
CAPTAIN MIKE
February 1, 2005, 06:28 PM
Here in Nevada, open carry is legal.
But unfortunately, the sight of a gun by some does cause those who are afraid of guns to be very apprehensive that "something is about to happen". So the question for many of us is: would the sight of you engaging in Open Carry cause more fear or less by those who see you?
Recently one of my little boy's Cub Scout buddies was visiting on an overnight visit as I came home from work with my sport coat over my arm and my sidearm in its Fobus holster obvious to anyone who saw it. I happened to overhear the comment my son made when his friend asked him if his Dad should 'wear a gun'.
In response, my Little Guy (age 7) said "Where ever my Dad goes, people are safer." I smiled as I passed by and headed upstairs to get out of my business attire.
He's right, of course. People ARE safer. Whether they know it or not. On my part I do occasionally open carry, but not to make a show of it - more so as a matter of convenience.
Thinking about the tactical side of things, I definitely feel that concealed carry gives me a certain 'edge' on a BG who doesn't know I'm armed. On the other hand, Open Carry also sends a message -- a mixed one in my opinion.
One part of the mixed message is that we are not a bunch of knuckle dragging 'Gun Nuts' as portrayed in the Mainstream Media and that normal people who are good guys can safely and responsibly be trusted to bear their firearms in public without the need to call out the SWAT Team. The other part of that mixed message is the issue of apprehension and fear that non-users may experience -- the uncomfortable feeling that maybe this location is now "not safe" because there's some guy walking around with a gun on his waist.
I do think anyone who carries openly would be very wise and prudent to consider (and train in) Handgun Retention and Take-Aways if some jerk decides to surprise you in line in the grocery store and snatch your firearm.
But unfortunately, the sight of a gun by some does cause those who are afraid of guns to be very apprehensive that "something is about to happen". So the question for many of us is: would the sight of you engaging in Open Carry cause more fear or less by those who see you?
Recently one of my little boy's Cub Scout buddies was visiting on an overnight visit as I came home from work with my sport coat over my arm and my sidearm in its Fobus holster obvious to anyone who saw it. I happened to overhear the comment my son made when his friend asked him if his Dad should 'wear a gun'.
In response, my Little Guy (age 7) said "Where ever my Dad goes, people are safer." I smiled as I passed by and headed upstairs to get out of my business attire.
He's right, of course. People ARE safer. Whether they know it or not. On my part I do occasionally open carry, but not to make a show of it - more so as a matter of convenience.
Thinking about the tactical side of things, I definitely feel that concealed carry gives me a certain 'edge' on a BG who doesn't know I'm armed. On the other hand, Open Carry also sends a message -- a mixed one in my opinion.
One part of the mixed message is that we are not a bunch of knuckle dragging 'Gun Nuts' as portrayed in the Mainstream Media and that normal people who are good guys can safely and responsibly be trusted to bear their firearms in public without the need to call out the SWAT Team. The other part of that mixed message is the issue of apprehension and fear that non-users may experience -- the uncomfortable feeling that maybe this location is now "not safe" because there's some guy walking around with a gun on his waist.
I do think anyone who carries openly would be very wise and prudent to consider (and train in) Handgun Retention and Take-Aways if some jerk decides to surprise you in line in the grocery store and snatch your firearm.
Zach S
February 2, 2005, 09:46 AM
Occasional open carry could be a definate possibilty depending on the situation*. I wouldnt do it habitualy though.
*For example, ever had a heater hose bust on your shirt? If you reacted anything like me, you simply ripped the shirt off before you get burned any worse. Not entirely a good thing to do when there's a pistol under it. Thankfully there was no public to go armed to the terror of in the mall parking lot at 02:00.
*For example, ever had a heater hose bust on your shirt? If you reacted anything like me, you simply ripped the shirt off before you get burned any worse. Not entirely a good thing to do when there's a pistol under it. Thankfully there was no public to go armed to the terror of in the mall parking lot at 02:00.
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