Mike
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http://wamu.org/news/10/03/02.php#32675
Some Va. Gun Owners Test Limits of 'Open Carry' Rules
March 02, 2010 - Some gun owners in the state of Virginia are making more of an effort to exercise their right to carry unconcealed firearms even into popular retail stores.
Ian Branson a Northern Virginia resident in his 30s, says he goes to Starbucks to do what many customers come to do order something hot to drink. Today its a Vanilla Latte.
The difference between Branson and most other customers is that he is packing heat on his waist as well in the form of a Heckler and Koch HK45 semi-automatic pistol -- holstered, but easy for anyone whos looking to see.
"Just because I have a tool strapped to my belt it doesnt change who I am or what Im doing," Branson says. "I'm going about my private business its the same as carrying a cellphone in my opinion."
Most other customers didnt give Branson a second look. Kevin Tai was busy studying.
"I wouldnt have even noticed if you hadnt brought it to my attention," Tai says.
But not everyone was as neutral. Tamara Carter says a coffee shop isnt the right place for a gun, even if it is legal. "I feel like Im livin the 'country'," Carter says. "You walk around with your gun I dont think thats right"
The state allows businesses to ban guns in their stores if they desire. Starbucks has said it will follow state law and allow customers to carry weapons in states where it is legal.
Jonathan Wilson reports...
http://wamu.org/news/10/03/02.php#32675
Some Va. Gun Owners Test Limits of 'Open Carry' Rules
March 02, 2010 - Some gun owners in the state of Virginia are making more of an effort to exercise their right to carry unconcealed firearms even into popular retail stores.
Ian Branson a Northern Virginia resident in his 30s, says he goes to Starbucks to do what many customers come to do order something hot to drink. Today its a Vanilla Latte.
The difference between Branson and most other customers is that he is packing heat on his waist as well in the form of a Heckler and Koch HK45 semi-automatic pistol -- holstered, but easy for anyone whos looking to see.
"Just because I have a tool strapped to my belt it doesnt change who I am or what Im doing," Branson says. "I'm going about my private business its the same as carrying a cellphone in my opinion."
Most other customers didnt give Branson a second look. Kevin Tai was busy studying.
"I wouldnt have even noticed if you hadnt brought it to my attention," Tai says.
But not everyone was as neutral. Tamara Carter says a coffee shop isnt the right place for a gun, even if it is legal. "I feel like Im livin the 'country'," Carter says. "You walk around with your gun I dont think thats right"
The state allows businesses to ban guns in their stores if they desire. Starbucks has said it will follow state law and allow customers to carry weapons in states where it is legal.
Jonathan Wilson reports...