... Well ...
I've always said that at some point it'll happen. At some point an OCer will have thier weapon stolen because it was accessable, or they'll be shot for their weapon for one reason or another, and at some point an OCer will be shot because they were the biggest threat to be eliminated first durring commission of a crime... at some point, those things will come to pass... and other negative events as well. It's the way of the world... all things shall come to pass (both good and bad).
.. Does this mean that we should stop OCing?? -- Hell no... Carry on, OC or CC as you see fit.
Does it 99.9% deter crime -- yes
Does it afford more comfortable carry ? -- Yes
Does it educate the public? -- Yes
Does OC have a full and distinct advantage over CC ? - No
Does CC have a full and distinct advantage over OC ? - No
Does carrying have WAY more protection benefits than not carrying?? -- YES!
So, the act of being a first responder is in fact a potentially dangerous one, it's a fact, a simple truth. We accept the potential to stand before harms way in an effort to protect ourselves, those we care about, for some that extends to the community, or even a complete stranger. These things should not deter anyone from Open Carrying (or concealing for that matter)... and the fact remains, that dedicated CC people have teir own set of concerning conditions to contend with: snagging on cloths, weapon not accessable due to environment (sitting, crowded against a wall etc.) slower draw times, etc. Neither is a perfect formula... and that "perfect formula" only comes with lots of practice and conditioning. and that "perfect formula".. well, just isnt ever really perfect. not for OC, or for CC... or for anything really.
My final thought is simple" Neither CC or OC carry a complete advantage, and carrying a gun takes responsibility, knowledge, and acceptance that we just might end up on the short end of someone elses (the bad guy's) barrel. It's an accepted risk, where the potential to defend our lives is outweighed by the potential to lose it for the sake of not having the tools to save it.... We carry to protect - period. OC or CC is inconsiquential at that point.