TexasNative wrote:
As I understand it, the whole point of open carry activism is to normalize open carry. In other words, to get folks used to seeing "normal people" armed in any given situation.
Just as the PA soccer mom was defended for open carrying at her kids' soccer game, I also defend CPerdue's carrying in the bar area of a restaurant. It's supposed to be a normal thing. We're supposed to be making people get used to seeing us armed, and behaving like normal people.
Sorry, I'm gonna hafta disagree with those who say CPerdue should have avoided the bar area while OC. I can understand that some will say he shouldn't do it, but those folks can't justifiably call themselves open carry activists, in my opinion.
So far all I had to say was that I agreed that a table would have been a better place to sit, but I think I'll throw in my other penny.
A week or so ago, there was a thread concerning weapon retention. As usual, it was lively. Now we have many members here that do understand weapon retention and how to react in different environments, and general awareness and precaution.
Also as usual, we had people who had the latest, greatest holsters, have read the instructions and were therefore experts.
Hooters is a bar environment. An enjoyable bar environment granted, and perhaps better regulated than many, but people still go there to drink and have fun.
There is NO better way to start trouble than be the toughest looking fellow in a place where drunks are having fun. A little beer just makes you bigger...(also makes the women better looking:shock
IF YOU WEAR A HANDGUN OFTEN ENOUGH IN A BAR, YOU WILL NEED TO LEARN WEAPON RETENTION!
Now I think it was in the same thread that someone said I was pretty stupid for carrying a gun to stay safe but refusing to wear a seat belt. They were right! However not wearing a seat belt hurts no one but me.
The same can't be said about OC'ing on a barstool with his butt and the gun sticking out for every would be Rocky Balboa to see and grab. I UNDERSTAND THE oc'ER WAS NOT DRINKING, BUT OTHERS WERE!
I also think it was a judgment call and not deserving of some of the harsh criticism he has gotten.