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With regard to problems like misplaced wallets and keys, there's a fix for that, and it's similar to handgun safety: pick a place that is the one place where you put them when they are not on your person. It can be your headboard, bedside table, or anywhere else that is convenient when you dress and undress.

Likewise, a handgun should be loaded, in a holster that covers the trigger, safety on if applicable, and either on your person or in one safe place.

I used to be terrible about forgetting my wallet. I still do it about once a year because I change jackets or something.

The rules of handgun safety are multi-layered. If it's in a holster that covers the trigger, it's not going to "go off," period. A modern handgun is not going to discharge if dropped. It's not going to discharge unless something is in the trigger guard, and then it should be pointed in a safe direction or at a legitimate target.

It took me quite a while to believe these things myself.

I've mentioned this before, but old threads get buried and are difficult to find: You can carry an unloaded, cocked handgun in a holster, sit, roll around on the floor, stand on your head, and do whatever else it takes to convince yourself that the hammer is not going to drop.

Most shooting accidents where the details are available involve leaving weapons where children or moronic house guests find get them, or the owner literally playing with a weapon (often while intoxicated).

- Jim

Drewthetexan wrote:Here's a twist, perhaps, (and if already posted, sorry, it's late and I'm not up to searching for it), but what about dating someone new[?]

Maybe I've been out of the game too long and should keep quiet, but ...

You could try to meet women only at shooting ranges.

Other than that, I think it's probably best to get the issue out in the open early. There are many differences of opinions and personality that are going to be deal-killers, like religion, politics, and attitudes about money.

I had a bunch of first-and-last dates either because I thought the woman was an airhead or she thought I was too nerdy.

- Jim

lonewolf wrote:Its truly a process for a lot of people.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel, and it's not an oncoming train. Be patient and persistent.

- Jim

Mage34 wrote:Or even worse....she really can take care of herself and she beats up your friend......

Yep.

I vaguely remember reading about a guy got some friends to "mug" him so he could impress a girl. Someone intervened, unaware that it was a stunt; and several people got hurt and or arrested.

Sorry I can't remember the details.

- Jim

The problem with TV news is that it makes crime victims seem helpless, unless the cops get there in time. In the rare event that someone successfully defend himself, they often have a police spokesman saying that victims shouldn't resist.

Also, at least half the assaults and homicides on TV are between criminals or domestic disputes.

- Jim

It's not illegal or alarming to have a bulge under your clothing. More people than not walk around with multiple cell phones, Blackberry-type devices, and MP3 players on their belts.

People seem to have two completely different reasons for being timid about weapons

• They think the weapon will "go off" and injure someone.
• Preparing for a dangerous or unpleasant situation forces them to think about what might happen.

The first can be reasoned with. You can put a snap cap into the weapon and let the person try to make it "go off" without pulling the trigger. You can also show that most holsters point the barrel away from the wearer's body.

The second is more difficult because the person's mindset needs to be changed. Pretending that emergencies won't occur doesn't change the reality of a situation; it just means you're not prepared. I don't have a quick fix for that.

- Jim

Everyone has their own reason for carrying. Some think it's prudent from general knowledge and experience. Some have been threatened, or had a loved one threatened or become a crime victim.

You will need to take your wife's personality into account. Too many true-crime stories may just frighten her without leading her to think that carrying is a good idea. Some of the Cornered Cat stories are very compelling, though. You should also be able to find essays by Sandy Froman (NRA President) online.

Meanwhile, I think it's safe to say that your wife (or anyone) will become more comfortable around weapons with time and lack of negative experiences. I've seen it happen.

- Jim