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Thanks

Gray

Thanks,

CS

I believe there are two schools of thought regarding “Open
Carry” vs. “Concealed Carry”. I exercise both privileges  and the occasion usually dictates which
method I pursue.

Let’s start with carrying a sidearm, regardless of method
used. The ability to carry a firearm for protection is a right afforded me by
the State of New Mexico, the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights.  Secondly, I have an obligation to
protect the well-being and safety of myself and family. Last but not least, I
purposely avoid  most forms of
danger in my everyday travels. However, logic dictates that there are ever
present dangers lurking in the shadows and I may one day be challenged to face
my worst fears. In that event, I need to assure the deck is stacked in my
favor.

Open Carry invites communications with individuals that are
“curiously” interested  in
firearms.  When the
opportunity  arises, I get to
explain to “the curious” individual, the reason for carrying a sidearm and
introduce them to our Second Amendment freedom. Many people don’t realize that
the law grants an individual,  the
legal right to protect one-self and family. I provide them  information and sources such as the
internet, library, etc… to further educate themselves . Open Carry, unfortunately,
personifies the irrational concept that people whom carry guns are dubious or
odd though quite contrary. Some people may avoid you at all cost because you are carrying a sidearm openly. Most
children that confront you ask you if you are a policeman.  They act surprised when you answer them
honestly. When asked “why then, do you carry a gun”, I calmly explain to them
that I have a responsibility to take care of me and my family”. Most children
let it go at that. But many adults follow-up with questions that ask “why not
call the local authorities”? My answer is “by all means, I do just that” then I
further explain that while I’m awaiting law enforcement to arrive, I must
assure my safety and those around me.

I also find that carrying a handgun openly has the ability
to diffuse an incident before it could begin. Most criminals will choose
against committing a crime if they know that another person [carrying a
sidearm] has the ability to change the outcome of their wrong-doing. Even
criminals have a desire to live. 
This debate is similar to “having” or “not-having” a laser on your carry
firearm. When a criminal sees that “red-dot” on their chest [confirming
potential death],  they elect to
flee without a shot fired.

With Open Carry, I have quicker access to my sidearm should
I need it. Also, comfort is a major advantage  when utilizing Open Carry. Some individuals  feel Concealed Carry is cumbersome and
they choose not to carry due to discomfort. I hear this frequently. Some thinks
it is bulky and awkward.  If the
option to Open Carry means you’ll carry, then by all means Open Carry. We are all different and what works for
me may not work for you.

“Concealed Carry” is my preferred method of carry. Concealed
Carry has many advantages . Not having a sidearm in plain view gives the
appearance you are an average Joe and nobody is the wiser. Furthermore, the
fact that Concealed Carry exists, by its very nature, can be a deterrent for
criminals.  One can conclude that
the less sure a criminal is of their intended target and the outcome of their
crime, the more likely their instinct for survival will kick in. Many will
consider wisely not to engage in the activity.

Proponents will argue their preference for Concealed Carry.
They believe it offers “the element of surprise”. Most Concealed Carry permit
holders might agree with the validity of that statement. I believe  a series of events must take place
before the element of surprise can be utilized. In the unfortunate event  a criminal puts a gun to your head and
wants your money, what element of surprise can be offered? We all know you
can’t out-draw an already drawn weapon. Some will argue  that spatial awareness should have been
maintained to prevent such an event. I like to think so too, but in reality, we
are not blessed with limitless attentiveness and we must realistically expect
to have our awareness challenged every now and again.  Yes, concealed carry does offer the benefit of “surprise”,
but not 100% of the time. It’s one of many tools in the tool chest and the
situation dictates its success rate. For that reason, the “element of surprise”
methodology ranks low on my list of reasons for carrying concealed.

I like to carry concealed because I have achieved the level
of training and education legally deemed necessary in order to do so. Because I
choose to engage the rules granted me under law, does not imply I have a
“Commando Complex”. I have earned this right, be it through Government
Regulation,  and a “Right
not exercised is a Right lost”. I am a realist and know that crime is an everyday part of
life. Should crime strike near, I choose to be “active” rather than passive.
Self preservation  ranks highest
amongst reasons for carrying concealed.