Anonymous wrote:very depressing, now in addition to worrying about the armed criminals and even more about the scores of irresponsible kids in DC who get their hands on weapons thanks to the US' irresponsible gun policies, now I have to worry also about the real estate attorney or soccer mom who go around fully loaded.
Anonymous wrote:If you have a handgun, why not just open carry? If someone sees a gun on your hip maybe they will NOT mess with you.
Anonymous wrote:Anonymous wrote:If you’re carrying a concealed weapon … you’re a gun nut.
OP sounds like a very reasonable person protecting themselves in what is fast becoming a lawless city.
Simple fact, when seconds matter the police are only minutes away.
Anonymous wrote:If you have a handgun, why not just open carry? If someone sees a gun on your hip maybe they will NOT mess with you.
Anonymous wrote:If you’re carrying a concealed weapon … you’re a gun nut.
Anonymous wrote:OP here - a few quick responses.
- Process is tedious and time consuming but not difficult. You have to take a class that includes time at the range. You have to demonstrate that you can safely handle and fire the weapon. You have to go through a background check with MPD before you can take possession of firearm. I didn't feel like there was enough shooting practice to feel comfortable so I took a basic pistol class that really helped. I didn't grow up around guns, and I didn't want to accidentally hurt myself or someone else.
- I safely store my firearm in a safe.
- DC is a shall issue state now - you don't have to provide a reason other than "self defense."
- I'm intentionally calmer now, especially in the car, because the last thing I want to do is escalate with a firearm. The law in DC is clear that you have a responsibility not to escalate and to retreat if possible if you want to claim self-defense. I guess there are some "legend in your own mind" people who carry. I'm the opposite.
- I live here and I have roots here. I'm not going to move to the suburbs. I'm also not going to live at the mercy of armed criminals with no regard for human life.
Anonymous wrote:You say you're fine letting a thief take your car, credit cards, phone etc. So let them take what they want. You're far more likely to make it home alive than if you try to pull on gun on the thief. Because guess what--the gun toting criminals of DC are a lot handier with guns than you likely are. Don't be stupid.
Anonymous wrote:I would agree. Open carry is not usually a good option. I am sure police like to see it. They then know you are armed so they don't have to worry if you are or not. You just told them you are.