imported post
Ok, I finally did it. I OC'd this morning! Can't believe I crossed that threshold. Here's the scoop.
Costco, Manassas: I need to upgrade the shredder in my study and Costco was my first target. As usual, I CC'd there. No shredder purchase but did get some dried Mangos for the wife and "The Reagan Diaries" for me.
Staples, Manassas: The first victim of my "coming out" (good Lord, hope that one doesn't send the wrong signal). Walking across the parking lot (being car-anal, I always park away from other vehicles to protect my machine) I passed by two ladies who were just talking. They either didn't notice, or they didn't care. Into the store which was kind of busy. I wandered around for maybe5 or 6minutes until I asked someone where their shredder display was. Talked to a manager briefly about shredders, then left to check out the next victim. No one in said anything nor did I perceive any stares or such.
Office Depot, Manassas: Again, wandered around and found the shredders quickly. Puzzled over them, then asked floor manager(??) if he had a certain one in stock, which he got for me. Made it to the checkout counter (only one operating). There was alady in front of me with with her two children. After a few minutes, she leaned over to me and said,
She- My son just said, 'he has a gun"
Me -Well, yes.. this is Virginia and I'm a native Virginian". (yes. I was most polite and genteel).
She - I think it's good to have guns around in case something happens.
Me - This doesn't bother you, does it? (referring to my sidearm).
She - No, I think people should be able to protect themselves.
No one else in Office Depot made any remarks, nor did I see anyone gaulking.
Target, Gainesville: Again, looking to see what they had in shredders. Nothing of interest. No one seemed to pay any attention.
Amoco (BP), Somerset: Getting gas. The line inside was long and took a bit of time. No one said or made any overt jestures.
So, my first "real" time out was a non-event. Funny,it felt similar to what I felt the first time I carried concealed. A little self-conscious at first. Another thing I noticed. A desire to go out of my way to be polite and nice (I generally am most always, anyway). But this was more due to the fact of wanting to portray a positive image of those who chose to OC.
The positives: I was dressed in jeans and a nice golf shirt not tucked in. When OC'ing, theshirt keeps the gun from embracing your skin which on hot days, can promote sweat and chafing. A bit more freedom.
Negatives: You become a target if you are OC'ing when an armed robbery begins and the perps don't notice your piece until after they have commenced their actions. My advice to this would be to discreetly conceal your gun so as not to invite their attention.
Finally, I'm over the hump now and I'll definitely do this again. God loves Virginia and he likes us armed as well,I suspect.
