ccw zen

[xiph0s]

I got my NC-CHL permit mid september. Since getting approved for the permit i did some research, found a suitable carry gun and got a slick IWB holster for it. As soon as I had all the tools necessary to properly carry concealed I have found that I do not leave home with out it.

There are a few things I wanted to get some feedback on to see if anyone else feels this "zen" of sorts.

I drive the speed limit everywhere. No more crazy driving. In my younger days I used to be hell behind the wheel. Now that I am armed I drive like a responsible adult should.

Situational Awareness. Before getting my CCW I had a decent amout of SA. But i have found that since I have begun carrying that my SA is through the roof. I notice things that ordinarily I would have not looked at before. For instance, I am always aware of exits to any building that I am in as well as a general once-over of the people in said building so that I am aware of the people around me. It amazes me what the weight of a gun on your hip will do to make your mind think about things you wouldnt have typically considered.

Being Prepared. I was an Eagle Scout and as many of you know their moto is to "be prepared." Since I have started carrying I feel that when I am legally allowed to carry somewhere I am prepared to protect my wife and myself no matter what the situation.

On the flip side I have found that I have become less outwardly pro-gun. Meaning, that if i am in the company of people that I know are pro-gun and trust with knowing the fact that i am armed we will talk guns. However, if I am around people that may not be pro-gun or are (gasp) anti then i keep my mouth shut. I see no need in trying to defend a right that i firmly believe in to someone who is not willing to take the responsibility of defending themselves. I hate to sound like someone who doesnt care about other people, but I am not risking my life or my rights for someone who wants to benefit from the cornerstone of this country without being willing to do it themselves.

I have been around firearms my entire life. There are few things that I consider to be as important in my life as firearms for the sole purpose of what is means to be able to possess them in this country.

When i was finally able to apply for my CHL I felt like I had graduated within my own group of people to become one of the responsible few willing to stand up for those i hold dear as well as myself.

Since getting my permit I can not imagine going "naked." I hope like hell that i will never have to use it, but i know that it will be there when i need it.

Sorry for the rant. But I figured at least a few of you would share the sentiment with me!

 

[cambeul41]

Good post. Many of have had similar experiences.

 

[Kind of Blued]

Good post indeed.

I finally realized that, the truth is, the main reason I carry a gun anymore is because I like doing so. Period.

I like exercising the right and I like having a bit of weight on me that, instead of being a burden because I know I don't need it, is an incessant reminder of my freedom although I'd like a bit more (freedom junkie?). It's a reason to buy new handguns, and I do need reasons, and it's a reason to buy holsters.

And I love holsters. They smell nice.

 

[OOOXOOO]

Welcome to the party. It feels different to actually be proactive about your own security. I like how you said it effected your driving habits ( I felt the same way). Maybe carrying a deadly weapon makes you think more about driving a deadly weapon.

 

[ZombieKiller]

Maybe carrying a deadly weapon makes you think more about driving a deadly weapon.

+ 10

 

[bdickens]

I think there's something about the knowlege that you have life and death right there on your hip that changes your whole perspective on life.

 

[MT GUNNY]

The fact I CC does not affect my driving habits. I think the reason is because Ive always had firearms in my vehicle. So adding one thats Concealed has no effect. However everything else the OP said is spot on.

 

[ColinthePilot]

CCW hasn't changed my driving habits, but gas prices have. I don't drive like an idiot anymore because it saves money at the pump.
If anything, CCW caused me to drive like an idiot, because every time I got pulled over with my CCW and my gun, I got out of the ticket. I attributed that to making a good first impression with the LEO when I informed him of my gun and license. I always start the conversation with, "How are you, sir? Before we get started, I want to let you know that I have a Concealed Carry Permit and I have a pistol in the vehicle. How would you like to proceed?" Works every time [knocks on wood]

 

[moooose102]

welcome to the ccw club. i to feel something similar. maybe not quite to your extent. but i am more aware of what is going on around me, particularly in parking lots and check out counters, actually, anyplace that money is being exchanged. as for my driving habbits, they have not changed because of my ccw. i slowed down when my first child was born, so he beat this to the punch.