My question is at what point in a situation do you slide your hand back and at least put your hand on your gun not as a deterrent but as a "ready" position.
For me it really depends on what and how I'm packing.
-If I'm pocket carrying and I can slip one hand into my pocket and rest it on my gun without drawing attention, I do that as soon/often as possible.
-If I'm carrying strong side IWB then raising my shirt and reaching for my pistol is very obvious, so I wait until I think I'll need to use it. This way, I have the advantage of surprise and I'm not opening myself up to a brandishing charge if it turns out to be a false alarm.
-On long car trips I carry in a shoulder holster or IWB cross-draw with an open-front cover garment. While sitting in my vehicle I can easily rest my hand on my weapon without anyone having a clue. I do this as often/soon as possible in any situation where the weapon may be needed.
Basically, If i can put my hand on my gun without anyone knowing, I do. If I have to expose my gun to get my hand on it, I don't touch it unless I know I'll need to use it. With a little practice and a good rig, you can probably draw and fire in a second or less.
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