I originally got my permit so I could buy a handgun and take it home same day.
My first handgun was my XD9, it is full sized. I bought it because I shot it really well. The idea I might one day wear it concealed was not a priority.
At first the option of carrying a gun was a novelty. I carried because I
could more than because I thought I might need it.
A lot of the guns that my students have are full sized autos.
I'm not saying you can't conceal those, but I think after some of these people haul around these full sized 35 or so once pistols, they wont carry every day all day, day in and day out.
I agree. I stopped carrying daily. I would wear it when I would do banking/shopping primarily, with the occasional "random" day.
That all changed when a group of us were approached after calling out a potential prowler. When we told the prowler to leave, his friend stepped out of the car and started towards us.
The funny thing about conceal carry is, if done correctly you will never know if someone is carrying or not.
I had my gun that day, and before I even thought about it, my hand was on it. So were a couple of my friends hands on their guns. I thought I was the only one who carried and I've known these guys for years. None of us had to draw, the two retreated from the neighborhood.
Since then my percentage of daily carry has spiked. My XD is my favorite gun, but a bit awkward in some situations. My .38 has been a constant companion and has the EDC wear to prove it.
The family that carries together...
As my interest in firearms grew, so did the family's. My brothers are always armed, so is my sister-in-law. My sisters are shopping for their first guns. My g/f applied for her permit on the 5th, she has already purchased a revolver.
Once at a BBQ we were picking on mom, asking when she would get
her gun. She stood and asked, "Who here is wearing a gun?" The majority of us raised our hands. She said she didn't need a gun, she has an army.
Who carries at home, in their own house?
If I'm moving around, its on me. If I'm lounging its laying next to me.
I'm 100% at home.
I would like to say I'm 100% overall but that would be a lie. I go out drinking on the weekends, I go to concerts, hockey, school, and lately court.
I carry because I cannot predict what will happen tomorrow.
I carry to defend my family.
I carry to defend my 2A rights.
I carry for those of you who are not allowed to.
(Sorry so long, I got carried away.)