locke_n_load wrote:A right not exercised is a right lost.
Open carry of a pistol in a holster on the hip is about the best way to get the public to firearms (unless the uninitiated are your friends, in which case a range session is due!). I do not see licensed Open Carry as a fear tactic. I will OC, you can CC, and the guy across the street will go unarmed. Cheers to all and their decisions, as we all have the right to choose.
In my mind, exercising a right is similar to exercising a muscle: do it, and it becomes stronger; don't do it, and it becomes weak, and eventually, useless. A lot of people worked long and hard to get the OC law passed so that we can exercise that right. Consequently, I intend to OC as often as I can.
Granted, I'm in a rural area, so I may have a little more latitude to OC than some folks in a more densely populated area. When I do OC, I do not intend to be "in your face" about it. I will strive to be conscious of my surroundings, first and foremost from a security viewpoint, but also from other onlookers' viewpoints. I will respect the wishes of private property owners and business owners, either by covering up or leaving.
My intent in OC'ing will not be to instill fear in anyone. If I detect genuine fear or discomfort from some "soccer mom" then I certainly have no problem in trying to ease their mind by either a pleasant smile and nod, or a soft word, or even leaving. Hey, I'm newly retired, I've got no schedule!
I guess I just don't see how we get people accustomed to seeing LTC'ers OC if we never OC.
Yes, of course, tactical and security considerations come first. But in those situations where OC is an available option to me, I will - at times - choose to do that.
Those who choose not to do so, certainly have the right to do so, and I can certainly happily respect your decision. Best wishes to all for a great New Year!
