I've been trying to say away from commenting on this because I know it will stir the pot. I definitely understand where you are coming from. To be clear I do understand the possible impression that you may give off when consuming a frosty beverage while OC. That being said I have to disagree to an extent. When I am out at a restaurant, and I chose to have a beer with my dinner while OC, that is up to me and no body else. The guy sitting at the bar getting sloshed while OC on the other hand is just a bad idea, but as well his choice(not something I would do). I know what one beer will do to me, as well as in the realm of two or more. So I know that when carrying one is my limit because I don't want to loose any ability to properly defend myself if need be. Two or more I am most likely going to be a useless shot so leaving it at home is the best choice in that instance. Which really more than one beer while out to me just isn't worth what it cost, so I mostly just stick to one. As far as the guy at the bar getting sloshed, IMO and I am sure others, that is just a horrible idea. One if you need it good luck hitting your target. Two if you do manage to hit your target good luck trying to make a strong self defense case. Of course there is the public perception thing. Yes, perception is everything, I have gone through it so I completely understand it. Lets face it though, we live in a world of judgmental people. What is the difference between ordering a beer and a soda? For all the person who is judging you knows you are drinking a rum and coke. Even though the glasses they are served in may be different. Not all, but a good number of people we live with now a days are just sheep in the herd. That is why they perceive things the way they do. Not because they are right. They have no right judging you. People are too busy judging other people rather than looking at the things they do that are just plain stupid. As well, what is the honest difference between having one or two(depending on the person who knows what their limit is) beers while carrying, and having just one or two and getting in the car to drive home. You may be under the legal limit and OK to drive but if they(people in general) perceive one as safe and the other as dangerous that just makes no since. What is the difference? Both objects have the potential to be used to kill somebody. I just don't get it. I think it is unfair to say that the person who enjoys having a beer with their dinner while OC is a dangerous person.
I know I am asking for a good back lash by posting this, but this is just MHO.
Just a side note please don't read this in an angry tone, because this just isn't a response out of anger. As well, ed this is not directed at you. I have a great deal of respect for you and the others that have contributed to making VA Gun laws what they are today. Your post was just the most recent, and I just felt it necessary to voice MHO on the subject matter.
