Seeing some very impressive guns here. I come from Canada, which as you probably know has stricter gun laws, and as a result, less gun culture. Fully automatic guns here are completely illegal, Bushmasters and other civilian AR type rifles require a restricted firearms license, and handguns are tightly controlled and all legally sold pistols have to be registered. This registry also applies to all shotguns and rifles.
My question is, why do so many of you want to be able to carry a concealed handgun? I'm not trying to cause controversy, I'm just interested. Nobody would be allowed to carry a concealed handgun up here, not even some law enforcement. What is your reasoning for carrying a concealed firearm, why do you need it?
Again I'm not criticizing, just asking cause I'm interested.
Your question was well written.I think the reasons are different for each of us. For some it is an expression of freedom: being the captains of our own destiny. For others it is from a sense of preparedness. For others it is out of necessity, whether they live in a remote or dangerous area or are in a line of work that could warrent the need for extra protection. For most of us it is not so we can be tough or cool, and I would actually discourage that as a reason. it is a very serious undertaking that warrants thought and education. I can only speak for myself and my family.
I am a family practice physician, and certain people might see me as a worth while target as they might think that I have one of three things on me worth stealing. 1. Money, 2. Prescription pad, 3. Drugs. The simple fact is that I almost never carry cash, I do not have a portable doctor bag full of medicine, and I do not use prescription pads. My prescriptions are printed via electronic medical records. However, I have had people attempt to accost me while I'm out and about and try to steal something I dont actually have. So I carry a gun, because crazy people and druggies just dont understand the word "NO".
A few years ago my wife worked as a rape crisis counselor and forensic interviewer who testified in court on behalf of molested children. These children were most often molested by one of their family members, and these court cases were bringing criminal charges against the perpetrators. My wife worked for the state at that time, and gave her testimonies while the perpetrator sat across the room. Being a state employee, her identity and work adress are not protected information. We recieved threats, and had more than one very alarming encounter because of this. My wife joined me in becoming a liscenced carrier of a concealed firearm. Someone who is insane enough to sexually assault their niece or daughter, is certainly insane enough to attack a grown woman who was testifying against them. And rapists also dont understand the word "NO".
I will never be a victim, nor will my wife. This does not make me Rambo, or tough, or cool. It is simply a decision. Any concealed weapons liscence comes with a large amount of accountability. Most states require that you submit your fingerprints to be filed in the FBI archives, and you undergo an extensive background check. Many states also require special training or classes. You basically have to prove you are a law abiding citizen.
Hope this adds a little insight.