imported post
The way it was explained in my recent CCW renewal class was as follows:
AZ is Open Carry. i.e. they have a law that states that it is legal to carry openly, therefore you can.
NV is "Free Carry". i.e there is no law making it illegal to carry openly, but there is no law specifically protecting it, as in AZ.
What's the difference?
So, lets say you stroll in to the local Grocery store for some doritos, and you are carrying openly...
In AZ:
911: 911 what is your emergency?
Clerk: There is a man here with a gun!
911: Yeah, and? Is he pointing it at anyone?
Clerk: No..
911: Have a nice day. Click.
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In NV:
911: 911 what is your emergency?
Clerk: There is a man here with a gun!
911: I am sending officers right away.
Officers proceed to roll code (Lights and sirens), spread you out on the hot asphalt, put a knee into your neck just for good measure, until your story checks out. Then they let you go, and encourage you to not open carry any more. They will say something llike: "Just because you CAN, doesn't make it a good idea"
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I'm not saying I agree with this, but this is how it was explained in my class.
For the more practical answer, I open carry in places where I know no one will be freaked out, because they already know me. My office, the quik-rob near my house, even my bank branch, etc. When they finally notice, they say "Hey, how come you have a gun?", which gives me a great opportunity to explain it all for them, and open another mind. ("I carry a gun because I feel it is the duty of every responsible citizen, and to cherish the heritage of our great nation.")
In places where I don't know anyone, I carry concealed, so as to not cause anyone (including me) a hassle.
Hope that helps!