IamA Concealed Weapons Permit Instructor AMA!

What is the craziest thing a student has done in one of your classes?

Asked if he could shoot a home invader if they were stealing his stash of meth.

Did you report him? I reckon I'd have reported him unless he was the nicest bloke I ever met.

It would be hear say. Nothing I could really do.

Do you ever go to the movies fully intending to get popcorn but at the last second get nachos instead?

Bon bons!!

Great, another AMA where OP avoids the question.

Fine dang. No. I like popcorn movie nachos suck.

How about bon bons?

I love bon bons.

Ever had to teach someone you thought wasn't ok to carry? Like obviously mentally unstable? How would you proceed if you didn't have evidence and only gut feeling?

No, I will not teach someone I'm not comfortable with. They will be asked to leave.

so you were comfortable with the methhead?

Lol no.

I live in California and look to pursue getting my CCW very soon after turning 21 this year..

What is the average age of your students and are people that apply to carry directly after turning 21 looked at differently throughout the course?

What's your recommended firearm to carry?

I turn 21 in August and I am about to start my handgun fund. What do you suggest? (Looking to get out for less than $700 DROS and all)

Age is a huge spread I have parents have their kids sit in and I have people pushing 100. Lots of both men and women. No thoughts either way when age is thought of. Just glad your trying to be responsible. I like the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm right now.

What is one of the most common/easiest mistake beginners tend to make?

More details? In what aspect? Shooting, carrying, concealing, purchasing, etc?

Carrying and concealing

Not purchasing the correct holster fit / type. Not practicing with the firearm they will use to potentially bet their life on. A gun your going to conceal should be shot by you 800-1000 times before you bet your life on it.

The correct answer is buying a shitty kel tec for their purse.. Expecting to get it out when someone is threatening her at gun/knife point. Always use a holster.

100% always use a holster!

I'm an independent young glock who don't need no holster!

Don't fall out the bottom of someone's pants!

SERIOUSLY. As a female well versed in both purses and firearms, I can 100% say that purses are like fucking wizard space/black holes and it's great because you can fit a metric fuck ton of stuff in there, but you will NEVER find it when you need it. I have to half-empty my purse to find my phone if it isn't in the right pocket. Finding some dipshit little pea-shooter at the bottom of a bigass lady purse takes time.

You want to carry and conceal, you need to do it correctly. Then again, considering how many people end up shot with their own weapons, I don't recommend it anyways for someone with very little experience. Treat it light a lightsaber. I mean you wouldn't just fuck around willynilly with one of those.

Unfortunately most of us here would start messing around with a lightsaber if we ever got our hands on one and eventually hurting ourselves. The moment we touch it we'd turn into fucking jedis.

O hell yeah id turn that shit on lickety split!!!

In your opinion, where do you stand on gun safety (outlawing 'assault' weapons) and do you think that banning these guns would reduce the amount of crime? Also have you ever had to unholster YOUR gun (I assum you also concealed carry)

No I honestly don't think assault weapons bans would serve any benefit. If I did regardless of my affiliations I would be vocal about it. Honest law abiding citizens aren't the problem. 3 times in 13 years. 2 times the person was unaware and the situation resolved itself peacefully I was behind cover and "ready", the other saw what was happening screamed and ran instead of continuing to attempt and assault me.

story time?

First time I was only 18 and didn't have a permit yet. The gun was legally purchased as a gift by a parent and stored legally in my glove box. A "homeless / Crackhead" tried jumping into my car with the t-tops off while i was at a red light. I got my gun from the glove box was pointing it at his face through the opening and was literally already pulling the trigger. He jumped scream and ran before I got the shot off. He was less than a second from death. I am so glad he ran! Still don't know how it didn't fire. Feels like yesterday still.

Has that incident had a significance on your stance in gun control or what you do?

Yes. Everyone should "legally" carry a gun. Crazy people can be anywhere. You cant choose when you life is about to change. Always be prepared, and use your head. Think with your head not with your gun. You are a citizen if possible the police should be called unless it is the last resort.

Think with your head not with your gun.

I think that should be one of the golden rules of firearms

I say it all the time! "Some" people get their gun and feel they are Jack Bauer. You are a dude / chick with a gun nothing more.

So in other words, every crazy person that can be anywhere should be carrying a gun aswell. Yeah that would make me feel safer. We need to get the ball rolling on this one.

No crazy people shouldn't able to get a gun.

Wouldn't driving away be better than trying to shoot someone in the face?

I was blocked in traffic at a red light downtown. I woulda if I had the option.

In other words, you got spooked and nearly blew a man's head off for jumping in your car. Not to say you weren't within your rights, but isn't killing the poor bastard a but of an overreaction?

Dude coulda had knives, needles, who knows what.

Do I have to carry a gun? Can I legally carry a sword instead?

Yes, a sword would be great. Get some practice though they are heavy.

What is the most difficult firearm to shoot accurately, both type (rifle, shotgun, pistol, etc) and specific model?

Small snub nosed 38/357 revolvers. Any brand. The smaller the gun the less accurate / more recoil.

I own a gun and have never been instructed how to use it. What benefits would I get from taking a CCW course? What is taught in a course that logic, reasoning and common sense couldn't teach me? I really do not mean to be a jackass, but besides learning the laws of the state/county I'm in I just don't see a benefit to taking a course.

I know that I teach military / police all the time and am told that "I never thought of it that way" all the time.You will learn things that you will have likely never thought of. Common sense is a lot of it but you can't / shouldn't just figure some things out. It's also a crime to not be certified in some states as well.

I know that I teach military / police all the time and am told that "I never thought of it that way" all the time.You will learn things that you will have likely never thought of.

I'm sure that's the case, thanks for the reply. What is one thing that is commonly overlooked? Also, in your opinion, what pistol would be best all around for accuracy, capacity and concealability?

Where you can / cannot carry. Strange gun laws that you have likely never heard of that could get you locked up. Police officers do not even know all the laws. You have to be a well informed citizen. I really like the S&W M&P Shield 9mm right now. There are many others but this is my favorite.

Can you give some examples of where you can/can't carry?

Basically, everything I've ever learned is that you CAN'T carry in any place that you would most likely want to (for example, you like a dive bar or literally any bar - liquor serving places are off limits. You are afraid of crazy academic types, either Columbine or VT - off limits. You are driving in a seedy part of town or doing a drug deal - you probably shouldn't be doing either of those, and a CCW class would either not pass me or tell me to not go there. You work in a bank or government building or hospital, where there are rules against weapons AND security. Every movie theater has a no weapons policy/sticker, etc etc), just between most places and then you are breaking the law by carrying because no one has "gun cubbies" for you to place your weapon while you're there.

Also, do the "no weapons allowed" stickers mean anything? I have heard conflicting information from some of my CCW friends.

You can carry most places. Yes not a bar or bar area, not government buildings or a schools. Hospitals are not a definite no depends if they have a mental facility. See 12a. http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0700-0799/0790/Sections/0790.06.html

What firearm that you personally own, is your favorite to shoot and what firearm do you hope to own some day?

My favorite to shoot overall is my SBR 9mm suppressed AR-15 that uses Glock Mags. Hope to own a Full Auto AR or MP5.

If I had 18 grand to blow the very first thing I would do is start the paperwork for a full auto SBR MP5.

Yes me as well! Sucks they are so much!

Shooting a silenced mp5 is a real good time

I have shot them, yes it is a ton o fun!!! Now I just wanna own one.

Someone posted this to r/guns not too long ago and now it's on my must own list. Is yours similar? Good AMA btw.

Yes mine is very similar. Just not THAT short sheesh lol. Mine is a 9" barrel.

full auto AR... or in other words an m4

That works too. But converting an AR would be much nicer with a drop in full auto sear. More versatile.

Slide fire stocks work just as well and don't cost $15,000 or have to be registered.

They work not sure id say "as well" but they are a lot of fun.

Do you agree with this?

(what to say to the cops when you kill someone in self defence)

http://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/comments/20uqkw/what_do_you_say_to_authorities_without/cg7c3ht

I am a firm believer and preacher of "Don't Talk". Call your lawyer. I am not a huge fan of trying to be scripted and have a note or a card to give. Seems like it could bite you in the butt in court like you were planning for this to happen. I would, call 911, render first aid, say that there was a shooting and make sure they knew i was the victim. This would be in the fewest words possible. I would also lock my house, cell phone, car, etc. and give access to nothing without a lawyer present.

I am a gun owner, but I see no reason to join the NRA. Since you are a lifetime member, could you share some insight as to why you have found membership to be worthwhile?

Edit: phrasing

Supporting gun laws, legal assistance / advice, in car firearm theft insurance in your gun is stolen out if your car. Your auto policy won't cover it.

Fair enough. As far as insurance goes though, many homeowners' policies extend to include property in your vehicle, so your firearms may already be insured even if you're not an NRA member!

I would check your policy some do you are correct.

Have you ever come across anyone that you thought, "now that person should not be allowed to have a gun." And you were able to keep them from owning one thanks to some legal process.

Yes. I am my own boss when it comes to this regard. If I feel there is a legitimate reason you shouldn't have a gun you are not getting a certificate from me and I will make sure the store doesn't sell you a gun either. No legal process necessary. I can't stop them from going else where though.

And, how many times have you actually done that?

Less than 10.

Are there any laws you would support to at least make it more difficult for that type of person to get a gun? And just for fun what specific incidents was a guy coming to you for a gun or gun training and you just knew something was off with them?

Better enforcement of the laws we already have would be an excellent start. It's amazing the things that aren't enforced and overlooked. We need a better mental health process, but I don't have a magic answer for it. Don't be a damn idiot and try to come take my class openly drunk / high. Don't smell like you live under a bridge, and when I give you a command, "listen" to me, are great starts.

I have a theory--and maybe you could tell me if I am on to something--that many arsenal owners, people with assault rifles, think they actually might need them for some extreme situation like a complete breakdown in society, some chaos, reckoning is coming. I don't share that paranoia, so what I fear more are all these people with assault rifles itching for a chance to use them for real. Otherwise why have them. Do you think there is a good chance we will face calamity and you will be lucky to carry your assault rifles openly in a lawless landscape where only the armed survive. Barring that I don't see why anyone needs an assault rifle and should that day come the fewer assault rifles the better in my mind, anyway.

I generally have my "assault rifles" for the fun of shooting them. Sure if the SHTF ever happens and the collapse of society as we know it happens yeah I guess I will be ready. But I seriously doubt that will happen in my life time. Also... What are they chances of something that crazy happening and me being at home "ready to go" or being able to get home quickly and safely. Not all very likely. I don't play into the paranoia. I live my life happy and go with the easy going flow. EDIT Spelling.

My husband and I were looking into getting our concealed carries as soon as we get the funds and we definitely wanted to do a proper class. I see that there are a wide variety of classes and a lot split up by gender. Do you think this is necessary? Would a woman's only class benefit me at all or would I get the same education in a unisex class? I personally don't see how they are al different, but you may know something I don't so it doesn't hurt to ask. Thanks!

In my opinion the education is the same, the benefit I see is possible comfort level. If you are comfortable in a standard class it will likely be cheaper with the same info. But some ladies need the separation from men. I have seen women really open up in private / women's only classes. Especially in states where there are accuracy requirements and more in depth shooting to qualify. But most are fine in mixed classes.

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They know the major ones. But yes often cops will not know every law about guns. It would be impossible for them to know everything. That's why everyone should know the gun laws very well in their area

In their defense they dont know much about any laws except the basics. There is no rigorous legal training for cops. They just follow policy (some).

Exactly. They do what they think is necessary to protect and serve. If they make a mistake the judge will sort it out the next day.

Would you recommend concealed carrying a revolver? I know most prefer semi-autos but I really like the look and feel of revolvers, and I can't think of many situations where I'd need more than six shots.

Absolutely. Anything is better than nothing. My only concerns are the common ones. Round capacity and thickness of the revolver itself. Other than that if you are comfortable with it and can conceal it properly go for it!

Alright thanks! Lastly, any tips on concealing a full size Beretta M9? That's what I've got currently and I feel like I'm carrying a damn bazooka under my shirt.

LOL yes I also carry one occasionally. It is large but can be done. Bigger pants / belt. carry at 4 o'clock on your body and wear a loose / long shirt.

Do you think the skills demonstrated in a CCW test are enough to prove someone is able to carry a gun anywhere they go? I like in Kentucky and the test here is a complete joke. I saw someone who couldn't load a mag and someone who was trying to load a mag backwards pass the test... I wouldn't trust them to handle a gun by themselves let alone carry one at all times and potentially use one near myself and people I love.

No. In Florida I certify that in the time we spent together I felt you were competent to handle and discharge a lauded firearm. Not that you were accurate or knowledgeable. It sucks kinda.

How much does a typical class cost?

$50

If it's the National Rifle Association of America, why wouldn't they call it the NRAA?

Dunno.

I love guns, I have been around them all of my life, and have owned several at every point in my life. I carry conceal, as often as is realistically possible- but sometimes it is not practical or legal to carry conceal (certain building as you know.)

Anyhow, one thing that always really bugs me about CCW instructors is simple; you guys (perhaps not you, but I've seen many in action doing these things) have a tendency to over-psych your students. It goes without saying that it is absolutely necessary to illustrate the importance of what a handgun is, what it means when you brandish it and most importantly how to handle it and what it is capable of destroying. No one is debating any of those facts.

But to reiterate, most CCW instructors have a tendency to give passionate speeches, gesticulate far to widely and borderline violently, and place far too much emphasis on "warrior mentalities." Rather than approaching the situation of CCW being the last line of personal defense it really is, students are walking out of courses with a mindset similar to someone being shipped into an active warzone, left clutching their firearm as if it's the only peace maker and protective force around them.

Please, don't get me wrong. I love handguns. They're great tools, efficient weapons, cost effective and in the right hands pretty deadly. But I don't feel enough emphasis is placed on TRAINING in LIVE FIRE, I mean tap/rack/bang drills, reload and unholster maneuvers, ect ect. What's more I've seen a lot of guys with the barebones necessity for training, working out of their basement, milling out 50-100 people a month at $90 a pop in NE Ohio. All of these guys are NRA and state specific lisenced, and the more aggressive ones (warrior mindset) are working from the ICE handbook.

Care to comment on this particular method of teaching and training?

When I teach I have a 4 main parts. The longest is firearm safety, the second is where you can / cannot carry, the third is the main specific laws surrounding firearms, and lastly a physical demonstration of your competence to handle a loaded gun safely. I give maybe 1-2 short scenarios and answer no "crazy" questions. I teach the law and the only "scary" situation i speak and get passionate about is home invasion. I am against the type of instructor you speak of and all that does is rob the students of valuable information that could save their life or keep them out of jail.

For primary home invasion firearms, do you advocate handguns, shotguns or rifles?

I realize that every situation differs, and more often than not your average 2nd amendment supporter cannot or is not willing to fork out what will be over $1,000 for a decent semi-auto near mil-spec rifle, or even a few hundred for a good shotgun...but as I mentioned I know several CCW instructors and each one has a generic go-to. One even prefers a combination.

Also, what is your stance on the more...eccentric and higher capacity firearms coming into use for home invasion defense such as the UTS-15 or Kel-Tec KSG. The sound of one 12. gauge popping off in an enclosed space like a house will rattle the nuts of the most hardened criminal, and yet people linger under the delusion that 13/15 rounds of double buck is a necessity- Any words for them?

Oh and here's a for sure hot button for you. How do you feel about the knockout game? ;)

_ For primary home invasion firearms, do you advocate handguns, shotguns or rifles? I realize that every situation differs, and more often than not your average 2nd amendment supporter cannot or is not willing to fork out what will be over $1,000 for a decent semi-auto near mil-spec rifle, or even a few hundred for a good shotgun...but as I mentioned I know several CCW instructors and each one has a generic go-to. One even prefers a combination.

*Yes. :) Pick your poison. they all work.

Also, what is your stance on the more...eccentric and higher capacity firearms coming into use for home invasion defense such as the UTS-15 or Kel-Tec KSG. The sound of one 12. gauge popping off in an enclosed space like a house will rattle the nuts of the most hardened criminal, and yet people linger under the delusion that 13/15 rounds of double buck is a necessity- Any words for them?

*You have to be in the right situation. A gun you can't get to quickly does you no good. You must keep guns away from "unauthorized" persons (kids, felons, mentally defective). The gun that fits your budget, situation, and life is what I recommend.

Oh and here's a for sure hot button for you. How do you feel about the knockout game? ;)

*Easy way for a stupid young kid making a bad decision to die way too early.

What is the most common mistake people make when it comes to guns?

No education and practice.

I have been considering getting a Concealed Carry License here in Texas. I on firearms and have been shooting for 30 plus years. While both my wife and I want the license, we don't want to have to listen to the Obama is bad rhetoric while taking the class. We can support the second amendment without being one of the crazies we have here in Galveston County. Can we have the class without having to put up with the bullshit? Or just forget it and carry without a license?

I wouldn't carry without. While I don't agree with all obamas stances I respect him as my commander and chief. I never bad mouth him in my classes.

How do you approach your students about the castle doctrine

Have a plan. Stick to it. Defend your home at all cost. Give intruders a chance to leave before you see them if possible. I will announce. Here's your chance to leave I recommend you take it.

If you have a CCW and walk into a place that has a "no firearms" sticker on the window, what do you do?

What if there's a CCW in your vehicle and you have to pick your child up from school?

Don't get caught. It's not against the law on Florida but could get you a trespassing violation. . If I have to pick up from school I park across the street or next door.

How would I get ink out of the silk lining of my jacket?

Buy a new one.

If you visited another country (say the UK) would you feel weird/naked without your firearm?

Yes. I hate it.

I was offered to trade my .270 rifle for a .380 Walther PPK. Would this be a good self defense gun?

I assume you mean a .380 Walther. It is a decent gun yes. Just big and heavy for a .380 and pretty pricy.

Shit that's what I meant Yeah I figured it was an expensive gun. I haven't gotten the chance to shoot it yet but when I do I will enjoy it.

It is an enjoyable gun. I just personally think there are better .380 / 9mm choices out there you would enjoy more.

Such as?

M&P Shield, Ruger LCP or LC9, Glock 42

How much misinformation do you deal with in your classes due to the media's incorrect portrayal of the Zimmerman/Martin case and the blatant lies regarding Stand Your Ground that were crammed down the public's throat for more than a year?

Non stop every time. The media is a huge provider of incorrect info.

Was someone ever shot inadvertadly in your classes?

No. I have had a wayward loose handed student catch an elbow to the side before to slow their turning and swiping me and the class on the other side of the wall.

I don't think I understood any of that.

lol a student was not paying attention. They went to look at my and not point the gun down "swiping" my body, or the wall that the other students were on the other side of. Instead of letting that happen I gave them a hard elbow to stop them from moving and took the gun. They were not given a certificate.

I was involved in a shooting. A guy pulled a gun on me, I pulled mine and fired one round, ending the situation. It was a Glazer round and I fired through his windshield, so the BBs scattered and a couple caught him in the face.

He had 2 friends with him and they all said I pulled my weapon on this innocent, young meth dealer. The cops arrested me. The lead detective believed my story, but just kept saying he didn't know what to do because there were 3 people telling the same story vs me.

Long story short, the guy who owned the vehicle was also one of the occupants. He called me to insist that I pay for a new windshield. I had this Panasonic phone that would start recording the conversation at the touch of a button, so I did. I got him so pissed-off during the conversation that he inadvertently admitted that they lied to the police.

I took the recording to the lead detective and he immediately called the prosecutor. All charges dropped, with prejudice, and they gave my Sig back to me.

Here's my question- The detective told me that I should have unloaded on him and killed him. He said I showed too much restraint in only firing one round. Do you agree with that reasoning?

I think that just firing one shot most of the time will not likely safely end the confrontation. But the thought of just unloading is a "loaded" statement. Use best judgement. I'm glad your situation turned out with everyone alive.

what's your opinion on the Smith/Wesson bodyguard... both the pistol and revolver

I like them ok. I like the semiauto better without the laser now. It's a new option. The revolver is a nice piece as well.

What is your opinion on stricter background checks?

I think we need to enforce and follow the laws we have first and let's see how much better things are before we pile on a bunch of new stuff when we don't use the old stuff.

Where are you located?

Florida

What should I look for in a basic instruction course? What about in a basic safety class for kids?

First kids question. I really recommend you get kids training ASAP. Look for a certified instructor at a reputable business. State classes, gun ranges, 4H clubs, NRA. They can be great choices.

I'm a bigger guy who wears shorts with drawstrings. What type of concealed holster would you recommend for me?

Pocket is the way to go. If your shorts have pockets. If not a inside the waistband holster with a lightweight gun and the drawstring pulled tight.

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Yes.

Have you ever had any trouble with the police? like have they ever stopped you for no reason for carrying a gun?

No. They don't know unless I tell them.

Just wondering! I fully intend to purchase a firearm in the future, and I was wondering what are some proper steps and procedures that must be taken. To own a firearm as well as concealed carry?

Get some practice / training. Get comfortable with shooting your gun. Go try multiple types at local ranges. Have a way to properly, and safely store it in your home so you can still get to it quickly. Follow your local laws, know your laws very well and keep up on changes. Don't buy into media hype do research on everything.

Ever have to pass someone who you have ethical qualms about passing?

Weirdest/most off-balanced student?

Again no. I I feel uncomfortable I won't certify them.

I am a 19 year old student who would love to have a CCW - however, as a student who will be living on a college campus for probably six more years (including grad school) what are my options? Any?

Also, how much does it cost to go to a nice gun range?

If you school doesn't allow it your out of luck. Move off campus.

$20-100 depending on how much you shoot!

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Concealed is defined as not identifiable to the untrained eye.

Hello, What is your opinion on the militarization of American police forces across the country?

Not sure that's a god idea. But I haven't done enough research.

Out of curiosity and from aus, so a different perspective do you see the merit in other forms of combat to say disarm someone or prevent yourself being beaten up while i imagine some situations call for such a weapon are others able to be resolved without a gun, just curious to hear your thoughts on this

If you can safely resolve a situation without using your gun absolutely do it. This will likely not be the case though in the worst situation of your life. If you are in fear of your life you should eliminate the threat if there is no other option. I am also not a believer in mace, pepper spray, tasers, stun guns, bean bag bullets, rubber bullets, etc. You do not shoot to harm, if your in fear shoot until the threat is gone as a last resort.

CCW/CPL instructor here in MI. Whats your take on all of the open carry supporters? we have a large population of supporters who tend to believe that if they don't exercise that right, they'll lose it. In MI specifically, It has gotten a bit worse since there are talks to repeal the "stand your ground" laws. Florida has been a "Stand your ground" state for many years, Do you see a significant amount of people still open carrying?

At least for me, those open carry guys raise a lot of red flags.

Florida is no open carry. While I support the option though I would likely not do it.

How do I get a concealed carry permit in NJ?

Not sure. Florida here.

My family, well a few cousins, had a cop that did this come by their house and hold a small class for this. Turns out he did a horrible job and gave them out dated documents. Really hope your better than that lol

It is a lot of work staying on top of things. But I do.

I have heard that New Jersey is one of the toughest states to get a ccw, what would you recommend to increase the chances of getting a permit there. Are there any programs or even business affiliations that can help in the process. I would like to get a permit but seems like its almost impossible unless you have a specific threat or need for a job. Thanks

Not sure about NJ stuff sorry.

Is it worth getting CCW insurance?

I have instructors insurance. But not ccw insurance.

As a non-American, this thread makes me sad. Downvote me to hell all you want, but the grammar on this thread isn't what's hard to read. Source : don't live in America.

Sorry you'd love it here. It's a great place.

I tried not to comment but I had too. Any ccw instructor that reccomends a gun without meeting person shouldn't be teaching or remove there suggestion. Everyone is different. Everyone's hand is different. Not everyone can carry a S/A or D/A. Some can only carry a revolver. You need to hold. See how it fits. Can you work the controls. This is something you are gonna trust you and (if you have one your family's) life too. I work at a respectable gun store here in Northern Nevada. We do ccw and are on the California Doj list. So this has some knowledge behind it. Go ahead and flame on. Just bad be he kB someone comes in to buy a gun for his wife or girlfriend we strongly suggest against it. Even losing a sale. Because usually they buy something they like and their SO is not happy. Then they go to big box store buy and come back to see us with their SO!

I agree. I just can recommend what I like. I hope they use common sense and go to a store and try what they want before they buy it.

On a scale of "Theoretical" to "Microscopic", how small is your dick that you feel you need to walk around with a gun concealed on you at all times?

Only a small dick person would ask that question.

When would it be appropriate to draw a CCW? Would you draw if someone demanded your wallet?

If I was in fear of my life. Not my wallet. A human life is worth far more than any piece of property.

I have seen you mention Rugers quite a lot in this AMA, which I agree with (so small and awesome!!), but I live in a state where only LEO individuals can purchase those models. What are your thoughts of the Springfield XD and similar lines?

The XD are great guns as well. The slim new xds 45 is fantastic.

How many rights does one give up by getting a CCW. What additional legal responsibilities go with it?

None in my opinion.

How do you decide where to carry? Or do you just carry wherever you go?

I carry everywhere it is legal.

Would you feel unsafe walking around in Western Europe, say, in the countryside of France, or in London, considering carrying firearms is illegal there?

No not unsafe just naked since I always carry.

I've considered getting my concealed permit here in North Carolina but always talk myself out of it. Mainly because of the limits of where I could carry so I think what's the point?

So I guess my question is what is the point of carrying?

I just want to be ready to protect my life and my family's. I would still get it.

Thank you for answering my question. One follow up, my understanding is that you need to feel your life is in danger to pull a concealed weapon on someone correct?

Yes you cannot brandish. You must be in imminent fear or your or someone else life or great bodily harm. If not you should not unholster it brandish your firearm.

The amount of grammar and spelling mistakes in this thread is shockingly high.

I was just thinking that.

OK... I've heard several things that have me seriously questioning your credibility.

1. Every citizen should carry a gun. What? Every time conflict arises, we should have a small firefight? Absurd.

2. If you're in a place where firearms aren't allowed, just don't get caught. I think the idiocy in this remark speaks for itself.

3. Rifles are just as effective as shotguns in home defense situations. Lol. No, they're not. They'll definitely kill someone, but to the average civilian, a nice shotgun has a long list of desirable home defense qualities that pistols and rifles simply don't offer.

4. Your little anecdote about nearly shooting a man for opening your door in traffic. That's reckless as fuck. Last line of defense? Sounds more like shoot first, as questions later.

Idk man. Some fundamental truths you're skirting with some of these remarks. Especially #2.

*Yes every citizen who can legally carry should! *Not allowed and illegal are totally different. *I think any firearm in the house is a better choice than nothing. *I felt my life was in danger. End if story. Luckily it didn't happen. I want to see how you react when you at a red light and a psycho is literally claiming into you damn ttop open car. TARD.

I'm pro-gun but anti-carry. Becoming judge, jury, and executioner is a bad idea in my opinion. I also feel that carrying a gun makes people put themselves into situations that they normally might not, you wouldn't normally walk down a dark alley at night but with a .45 you wouldn't hesitate. Should you be allowed to feel safe? Absolutely, but do you think your right to put yourself in a stupid situation is worth more than someone's life.

Let's take the dark alley scenario - suppose someone approaches you and demands your wallet. They may intend to harm you no matter what, but more likely they want the wallet. If someone mugged me, I'd hand over the wallet and be pissed for a week or so while I had to cancel and replace my cards. You'd shoot them not knowing if they intended physical harm, have to spend (at minimum) a few hours talking to police, possibly be charged with manslaughter or murder and have to stand trial. You also may have to worry about retaliation from their loved ones.

Though you are allowed to defend yourself the problem is that it makes all crimes carry the death penalty.

My question is this, how can you possibly feel that you will always have enough time to adequately access the situation at hand? If I was passing you in the dark alley and I saw you nervously fingering a gun on your hip, I may try and strike first out of self-defense. You meant no harm, I meant no harm but now one or both of us would be seriously injured.

TLDR - get a pitbull instead.

I will not go somewhere with I gun I wouldn't go without. While I understand your thought process I'm not going to chance finding out if after he takes my wallet he's gonna kill me. If I have no option yes take my wallet you may never know I had my gun. *a person that is carrying a gun wouldn't be fumbling with it. You would likely never know.

Have you ever been knocked out?

No.

Is 'avid' a proper adjective for 'gun owner'

I avidly own and collect them. So yeah.

Do guns kill people?

No. Does a beer drink it self?