Do you carry (protection) when hiking?

[Colin]

The tent/bag thread got me thinking about hiking.

My question is do you guys/gals carry protection when hiking? It may sound paranoid but I hear alot of people do.

Personally I have my boot knife but not much else. I know my uncle carries a palm sized .22 beretta.

I hate hiking when there are hunters around. Not that I dont like hunting but its one of the few sports that gives an excuse to just about anybody to carry a weapon.

[Gunter]

The tent/bag thread got me thinking about hiking.

My question is do you guys/gals carry protection when hiking? It may sound paranoid but I hear alot of people do.

Personally I have my boot knife but not much else. I know my uncle carries a palm sized .22 beretta.

I hate hiking when there are hunters around. Not that I dont like hunting but its one of the few sports that gives an excuse to just about anybody to carry a weapon.
yes.you have more to fear from other people than the animals.better to have it and never need it.............

[Jeffro600]

A revolver...a BIG revolver...6.5" Smith&Wesson 629 44 Mag or a 6" Ruger GP100 .357 Mag. While out camping/hiking, I open carry as to keep it not only quickly accessable, but to let others around me know that im not in the mood to be bothered.

Daily, i usually carry a Para Ordnance Warthog.

[MonkeyBomb]

I always carry now. Not really for critters. I was out on my ATV when I got attacked by a crazy man who thought he owned the road Literally and it was the one time I wasn't packing. It worked out but would have been nice to have at the time. He was packing and was nucking futs. Never had a problem before never since. Just turned out a nutjob had attacked or harassed a ton of people and the LE in the area were afraid to do anything about him.

[bender]

glock 19

[zillacon]

Yes I do!

[Pilot]

Yes. On the Front Range a CZ-75D PCR 9MM. In the mountains a Ruger GP100 .357 Mag.

[JKTODD]

Mossberg pump shotgun/pistol grip when camping.

Trojan when hiking in Vegas!

J/K

[Unlimited04]

I don't carry a gun, but I sure carry a smaller Spyderco which is wicked sharp. And the standard Benchmade ~5" pocket knife. Both open easy with one hand. Back in Michigan we used to have problems with hunters around the farmland. They would just pull over and start shooting deer, with no regard to houses in the background. I have been meaning to get some of the blaze orange, like a hat or something because that is definitely something hunters will recognize quickly.

[Steve]

No, not where I typically hike/backpack. Not worried about people, and don't feel like carrying a firearm big enough to stop a bear (only real worry) when trying to pack for a week-long backpacking trip.

[shunt]

Usually have either a.357 or .45, just in case. I'm more worried about crackheads than critters though. You just never know what you'll run across in the woods..:eek:

[bigkuh]

Speaking of bears....last year while about 6 of us were hiking a trail called Lake Kathryn, which is in North Park about 15 miles west of Walden. We had an encounter with a bear and let me tell you, to be face to face with a female bear who probably had her cubs nearby is one scary thing. This is probably one of the first times I had decided to bring my sidearm on the hike (we have camped and hiked this area for 10 years) and man was I happy that I had it. Luckily she wasn't very interested in the group of us and just continued on her way after a few second stare. We turned around to head back down not wanting to risk another run in, and I think we make record time in the descent...
I carry openly at all times whenever in the mountains, usually my SIG P221 .45 with hot loads.
Andy

[Luv_Jeeps]

I carry everywhere, except when physically in the office.
It's the 2 legged critters that you really need to worry about.

[Colin]

What is the legal age to purchase a pistol? 21?

I was thinking it was 18 for rifle/shotgun and 21 for pistols but Im not sure.

[sonofmayhem]

yaaa i carry a knife, for anything, cutting rope. etc. my dad's a marine so i know a few moves with the knife. and i used to carry a .44 mag and a .22 rifle, now its a p89 and .22 maybe the carbine but only on occasion.

I think to buy one you have to be 21, but can't you get your cwp at 18.BUT im not positive.

[denverd0n]

I was thinking it was 18 for rifle/shotgun and 21 for pistols but Im not sure.
That is correct.

[denverd0n]

I never go anywhere without protection...

http://www.allcondoms.com/images/minttingle.jpg

[Colin]

Somehow I KNEW that would come up.

I prefer the superthin :flipoff2:

[SatansFaith]

Somehow I KNEW that would come up.

I prefer the superthin :flipoff2:
Honestly, I looked at the thread title and thought, "Why? In case a super hot mountain lion happens across your path and asks you to dinner?"
:flipoff2:

[Colin]

when I was typing the title I deleted the protection part like 3 times, but decided I better leave it for the slower folks on the forum :D

[Yota]

Honestly, I looked at the thread title and thought, "Why? In case a super hot mountain lion happens across your path and asks you to dinner?"
:flipoff2:

Perhaps fear of Urban Cougars?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/petrolero/Misc/UrbanCougarYikes.jpg

[gumcrew2]

3 pack or Trojans, 8" switch blade

anything else won't be neccesary

-Saul

[Waifer2112]

Usually have either a.357 or .45, just in case. I'm more worried about crackheads than critters though. You just never know what you'll run across in the woods..:eek:

Crackheads in the back trails of the mountains? O.K. I guess. They must be next to the meth labs at the top of Black Bear. :rolleyes:

[denverd0n]

Crackheads in the back trails of the mountains? O.K. I guess.
Roll your eyes all you want, but they ARE out there. Pretending they aren't is dumb, and making a willful decision to be ignorant about them is even dumber. Which of those two are you doing?

[Steve]

Roll your eyes all you want, but they ARE out there. Pretending they aren't is dumb, and making a willful decision to be ignorant about them is even dumber. Which of those two are you doing?
IMO the answer to this depends on where you're hiking. If it's front range trails, yeah maybe. I backpack a lot in the Weminuche Wilderness area, the largest in CO. No druggies or crackheads there to worry about.

[Waifer2112]

Roll your eyes all you want, but they ARE out there. Pretending they aren't is dumb, and making a willful decision to be ignorant about them is even dumber. Which of those two are you doing?

You're kidding, right? Where the hell do crackheads get crack on the trails in the mountains? How do they drive back and forth? In thier 40,000 dollar 4x4?

I know there is a distinct possibility of running into a demented person in the mountains. But crackheads? :rolleyes:

[Bauer]

The freakies are all packing. So I better be able to shoot back..

Mossberg 835 Ulti-mag w/ 3.5" nitro mags.. (ya it's steel shot but it works)
Never really had any problems but there have been a couple of times I got pretty nervous.

Ran into some bear cubs archery hunting up by Gunnison once. If mama wanted to get me it would have been all over. It's hard to knock an arrow while a bear is chargin you.. Thankfully I never saw mama..


O ya and my hiking happens during hunting seasons, you would be amazed what kinda people are out there with guns.

[mulliganplummer]

Pretty new to this forum, but this thread AMAZES me. I had no idea so many people carried guns. I hike all the time and one?.never came across any crackheads or crazy people, and two.?never saw a reason to carry a gun (knock on wood). I encountered a mt lion once, I guess it would have been nice if the scene got ugly. Do you people thing this group is a reflection of society or a niche group? So far at least 10 of you say you carry guns, does that mean in other forums, I will see the same thing? Just wondering? Walking out the door with a handgun would never cross my mind. I am not anti-gun, just not something I think about.

[Pilot]

Walking out the door with a handgun would never cross my mind. I am not anti-gun, just not something I think about.


Get assaulted or worse by a human or mauled by an animal will change that very quickly. You may never need it, but when you do its nice to have. Do you carry any type of insurance?

[Jeffro600]

You're kidding, right? Where the hell do crackheads get crack on the trails in the mountains? How do they drive back and forth? In thier 40,000 dollar 4x4?

I know there is a distinct possibility of running into a demented person in the mountains. But crackheads? :rolleyes:

Most definetly NOT kidding!

I cant tell you how many times ive came across old junked out cars rammed back into 4WD trails in our local mountains that usually housed some drug addict and his little crackwhore girlfriend while out hiking. Would they try to start something? I dunno...but knowing that i have the means to protect myself if needbe make me feel a WHOLE lot better. I do alot of my hiking alone and being out there without some form of protection just makes me feel vulnerable...wether it be from a pissed off hunter, a druggie, an animal that wants to rip my limbs off, joeschmoe sierra club member...whatever.

I dont carry for the reasons i can think of...i carry for the ones i CANT or would rather not think of...

[MountainJeep]

I don't carry a weapon other than campiing type knives and a geologic hammer. All could be used in close combat self defense, but no guns on me.

That being said there is usually one or more people in my group when hiking or 4 wheeling who do carry firearms. To be honest I am glad that they do. I have come accross some seriously messed up people on the motor vehicle and hiking trails over the years. Nobody has ever had to draw thier weapon, but its nice to know they could defend the group if it became necessary.

[jdogg4]

I carry when camping. Never had to use it. Most of the time people just use it to scare them off. Come up on a beer or mt lion cap off a shot in the air they will tend to take off.

[mulliganplummer]

Get assaulted or worse by a human or mauled by an animal will change that very quickly. You may never need it, but when you do its nice to have. Do you carry any type of insurance?

Carry...you mean some type of weapon. Then no. Except "my microphone, I got a backup mike also. Check one, two...yeah they work, no feedback"

Seriously, no.

[Jeffro600]

Come up on a beer or mt lion cap off a shot in the air they will tend to take off.

Ive NEVER seen a BEER take of runing after firing any weapon of mine! :P :flipoff2:

[lilgreenjeepyj]

My left and right hands.... Im like Chuck Norris.....:laughing: :pbj: :boxing:

Actually I don't carry, Im more worried about other people than the wild life.

[Scooter]

I always carry now. Not really for critters. I was out on my ATV when I got attacked by a crazy man who thought he owned the road Literally and it was the one time I wasn't packing. It worked out but would have been nice to have at the time. He was packing and was nucking futs. Never had a problem before never since. Just turned out a nutjob had attacked or harassed a ton of people and the LE in the area were afraid to do anything about him.

I would say that it was lucky you weren't packin that day,
or it would be a totally different story..

I used to bring a handgun while camping, don't anymore. Don't know why! I have met some very strange people on the back roads I , some of them were packing. Don't know if a charging momma bear is going to care if you have a gun or not, and even if you do it will probably wont make a difference. I love to shoot though....:D There is not a lot of stuff that I could shoot someone over.

[Yota]

No, probably not that many crackheads in the mountains.

But there are plenty of freaks, criminals, meth labs/addicts and idiots with guns in rural areas (including the mountains).

But it's precisely because I can't know where a criminal might be that I carry a weapon. I don't want to worry about guesstimating the probability of attack in any given place.

[denverd0n]

I know there is a distinct possibility of running into a demented person in the mountains. But crackheads? :rolleyes:
Thanks for answering my question. It's a willful decision to remain ignorant. No surprise, really.

[denverd0n]

No druggies or crackheads there to worry about.
Don't count on it. I'm willing to bet that if you talked to the forest rangers in that area they would have stories that would surprise you.

[Waifer2112]

Thanks for answering my question. It's a willful decision to remain ignorant. No surprise, really.

I'm 40 years old. Born and raised in the Boulder area. Aside from 4 years in N.Y. I've lived in the mountains for a few years, too. I've never once ran into anyone trying to buy crack in the mountains. I've never once heard from any of my friends, family, co-workers, or even aquaintances say they've had encounters with crackheads while on the trails. I've never once read a thread here that told of going up an obstacle only to find a crackhead on the other side.

So until I actually see, hear of, read, or any other way realize actual crackheads on the trails, I'll remain "ignorant".

BTW, I'm also willfully ignorant about terrorists attacking me while on the trails. Care to attack my character on that one, too? :rolleyes:

[jdogg4]

Ive NEVER seen a BEER take of runing after firing any weapon of mine! :P :flipoff2:

sorry the cold meds are about to put me down like a bear for winter here.

[Ooompa Loompa]

Pretty new to this forum, but this thread AMAZES me. I had no idea so many people carried guns. I hike all the time and one?.never came across any crackheads or crazy people, and two.?never saw a reason to carry a gun (knock on wood). I encountered a mt lion once, I guess it would have been nice if the scene got ugly. Do you people thing this group is a reflection of society or a niche group? So far at least 10 of you say you carry guns, does that mean in other forums, I will see the same thing? Just wondering? Walking out the door with a handgun would never cross my mind. I am not anti-gun, just not something I think about.


There are a lot of people one here that have CCW permits, and there are quite a few that carry everywhere they go. I don't understand it and I guess I never will, but it is their right, and I support their right. I don't even own a gun, but if I did it would be to do recreational shooting, and maybe hunting. I would not look at it as a means of protection, and I cant' see a reason to carry it with me while hiking. But, hey, to each their own.

[Waifer2112]

I would not look at it as a means of protection, and I cant' see a reason to carry it with me while hiking. But, hey, to each their own.

A revolver...a BIG revolver...6.5" Smith&Wesson 629 44 Mag or a 6" Ruger GP100 .357 Mag. While out camping/hiking, I open carry as to keep it not only quickly accessable, but to let others around me know that im not in the mood to be bothered.



That's why. Intimidation. For some, at least.

[LONEWOLF]

Colt King Cobra and a Spyderco, better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Look at it like this, it can also be used as an s.o.s. if something happens to you other than wild animals or wild crackheads. Three quick shots everyone knows the signal. Hummm survival, you are lost in the woods food on the grill. Your rig pisses you off you can have real bullet holes in it instead of those little stickers.:cool:

[Yota]

There are a lot of people one here that have CCW permits, and there are quite a few that carry everywhere they go. I don't understand it and I guess I never will, but it is their right, and I support their right. I don't even own a gun, but if I did it would be to do recreational shooting, and maybe hunting. I would not look at it as a means of protection, and I cant' see a reason to carry it with me while hiking. But, hey, to each their own.

Thanks for your support. Honestly.

If you'd like to understand why (even if you choose not to), I'd invite you to post up in the "Firing Range" sub forum under Off Topic. I know this is a topic that is near and dear to many hearts on this board. :thumbsup:

[Yota]

Your rig pisses you off you can have real bullet holes in it instead of those little stickers.:cool:

:lmao:

Now that'd be funny.

[Ooompa Loompa]

Thanks for your support. Honestly.

If you'd like to understand why (even if you choose not to), I'd invite you to post up in the "Firing Range" sub forum under Off Topic. I know this is a topic that is near and dear to many hearts on this board. :thumbsup:

I've thought many times of asking the question before. But no matter how I try I can't think of a way to phrase the question, and also state my opinion on the matter without it sounding like a flame against all people who carry concealed. Of course I would mean no disrespect, but I don't think it would come out sounding like that.

[shunt]

Crackheads in the back trails of the mountains? O.K. I guess. They must be next to the meth labs at the top of Black Bear. :rolleyes:

When I used the term crackhead, I meant it in a generic sense. It wasn't meant to be drug specific. Maybe I should have used dirtbag. Regardless, there ARE some serious nuts out there.

[Pilot]

Carry...you mean some type of weapon. Then no. Except "my microphone, I got a backup mike also. Check one, two...yeah they work, no feedback"

Seriously, no.

Sorry, I was unlcear. I meant to draw an analogy between life or car insurance and carrying a gun. I have never been in an auto accident but I carry insurance, even if I didn't have to. I feel a gun is like an insurance policy. You may never need it, but you're glad you have it when you do.

[Jeff Mason]

I'm 40 years old. Born and raised in the Boulder area. Aside from 4 years in N.Y. I've lived in the mountains for a few years, too. I've never once ran into anyone trying to buy crack in the mountains. I've never once heard from any of my friends, family, co-workers, or even aquaintances say they've had encounters with crackheads while on the trails. I've never once read a thread here that told of going up an obstacle only to find a crackhead on the other side.

So until I actually see, hear of, read, or any other way realize actual crackheads on the trails, I'll remain "ignorant".

BTW, I'm also willfully ignorant about terrorists attacking me while on the trails. Care to attack my character on that one, too? :rolleyes:

Are you really that hung up on the term crackhead? did you take that literally to mean people addicted to crack cocaine only?

If so, let me help you out. Substitute whatever other word you want in there. "Deranged person", mental patient, looney, freak, convict, rapist, serial killer, meth head...

Even if 'crack users' might not be in the mountains, there ARE people that have the intent to harm others in the world (I bet even a few in Boulder). Whether that intent is criminal in nature, or is a result of nature (do you know what paranoid schizophrenic people can do when 'god calls to them'??)

People can spend their entire life in the city, or in the mountains, and never have a bad experience. Or they can die at the hands of someone else. It's their choice about what they percieve the threat level to be and how they want to react.

Oh, even if it means they want to 'intimidate' others.

[LONEWOLF]

When I used the term crackhead, I meant it in a generic sense. It wasn't meant to be drug specific. Maybe I should have used dirtbag. Regardless, there ARE some serious nuts out there.
I know what you meant and you are right they are out there. as far as concealed weapons go, uh i don't conceal mine was i supposed to?:shrug:

[LONEWOLF]

[QUOTE=Jeff Mason]). (do you know what paranoid schizophrenic people can do when 'god calls to them'??)

Same thing they do when they listen to dogs:D

[Waifer2112]

Are you really that hung up on the term crackhead? did you take that literally to mean people addicted to crack cocaine only?

If so, let me help you out. Substitute whatever other word you want in there. "Deranged person", mental patient, looney, freak, convict, rapist, serial killer, meth head...

Even if 'crack users' might not be in the mountains, there ARE people that have the intent to harm others in the world (I bet even a few in Boulder). Whether that intent is criminal in nature, or is a result of nature (do you know what paranoid schizophrenic people can do when 'god calls to them'??)

People can spend their entire life in the city, or in the mountains, and never have a bad experience. Or they can die at the hands of someone else. It's their choice about what they percieve the threat level to be and how they want to react.

Oh, even if it means they want to 'intimidate' others.

You're kidding, right? Where the hell do crackheads get crack on the trails in the mountains? How do they drive back and forth? In thier 40,000 dollar 4x4?

I know there is a distinct possibility of running into a demented person in the mountains. But crackheads? :rolleyes:

Does this refresh your memory? :rolleyes:

[Jeff Mason]

Does this refresh your memory? :rolleyes:


who are you again? {sheepish grin}

I felt better after writing that though - thanks!!!!

[gjk5]

I always carry camping and hiking. And I agree with "crackhead" being a general term. When I lived in Denver I saw many druggie scumbags in the woods.

I used to occasionally bring a gun, primarily because I went camping mostly with some friends that were very......hippyish for lack of a better word. They constantly made fun of my "paranoia" and called me a gun nut. Until we had some wierdo come out of the woods one night and sit down by the fire and start reciting the words to "The End" (Doors). They were all too scared to say anything, I got up "to get more wood for the fire" (really to put my gun in a more accessible position) and then came back and politely asked the guy to leave while they all sat there staring at the fire. It took several polite requests and a firm grasp on his arm and an "accidental" reveal of the gun but he did leave. They all gushed about how lucky they were I brought my gun. Lucky huh?:rolleyes:

I always carry now in the woods and have since turned two of them into somewhat gun-people too.

Never seen a bear close up in my 11 years here, but I've seen plenty of two legged critters that made me nervous enough to be glad of a gun.


Like the old saying goes: better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. I wish the world was not the kind of place that I felt I needed a gun but unfortunately that is not the case.

[Yota]

I've thought many times of asking the question before. But no matter how I try I can't think of a way to phrase the question, and also state my opinion on the matter without it sounding like a flame against all people who carry concealed. Of course I would mean no disrespect, but I don't think it would come out sounding like that.

Well you could start with "why do you carry a weapon" and work from there. But if your mind is closed then I suppose it would be a fruitless discussion.

But if you really are interested, we're glad to discuss it. And honestly none of us were born carrying weapons (well... :D ). We had to come to that decision for a reason. So most of us were once where you are now. It might be interesting to find out what changed.

[denverd0n]

When I used the term crackhead, I meant it in a generic sense.
Yes, that was obvious. Except, of course, to those who are being deliberately obtuse (it tends to go along with being deliberately ignorant).

[Jeepindog]

So how many of you gun-totin' badasses have actually been shot at? You don't hear too many stories, and in this day, it would be all over the news that some demented freak (crackhead?) shot at a 'wheeler while out on a trail.

Just curious. I want a gun, too, but my wife said, "You can't hang with a Super Soaker..."

[shunt]

I know what you meant and you are right they are out there. as far as concealed weapons go, uh i don't conceal mine was i supposed to?:shrug:

You can do whatever you want as far as carrying goes. It your choice man. It's fine by me...

[jnschwie]

So how many of you gun-totin' badasses have actually been shot at?

None of us. It never (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/11/30/national/main658296.shtml) happens.

[Jeff Mason]

never (http://www.summitdaily.com/article/20051013/NEWS/51013002&SearchID=7322836217795)




ever (http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/4737150/detail.html)

[Colin]

Even though some of you guys got really way too stuck on the term crackhead, yes they do exist in the mountains.

Some guy in a old yota offered to sell me crack on moody. Yes I know moody is pretty close to a city but still, it happens.

[OlBlueCJ7]

None of us. It never (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/11/30/national/main658296.shtml) happens.

Too bad all those guys weren't packing heat so they could have at least defended themselves. Oh wait..... :rolleyes:

Lamest example evar. :flipoff2:

[Jeepindog]

None of those stories had the slightest thing to do with 'wheelin or hiking. The Castle Rock campground incident doesn't count, since the attackers "wheeled" there in a stolen Beemer.
I want real stories about people "needing" weapons to defend themselves. I am very much PRO GUN, but when people say the carry to defend themselves, it just sounds like a bunch of trash talk. Seriously, tell me you carry because you *CAN* not because you *NEED* to. Unless you're a LEO, you don't *NEED* a gun, unless you plan to shoot someone. Remember, guns don't kill people, bullets do. I still want a gun. I don't need one for defense. I want one for target shooting.
If you tell yourself that you carry a gun for bear prevention, read some stories about brown bear attacks in Alaska. Most of the time you will NEVER have enough time to unholster or swing a big stick, let alone squeeze off a few well-placed shots. Bears move fast, and it usually takes several slugs to bring 'em down.

[Gunter]

None of those stories had the slightest thing to do with 'wheelin or hiking. The Castle Rock campground incident doesn't count, since the attackers "wheeled" there in a stolen Beemer.
I want real stories about people "needing" weapons to defend themselves. I am very much PRO GUN, but when people say the carry to defend themselves, it just sounds like a bunch of trash talk. Seriously, tell me you carry because you *CAN* not because you *NEED* to. Unless you're a LEO, you don't *NEED* a gun, unless you plan to shoot someone. Remember, guns don't kill people, bullets do. I still want a gun. I don't need one for defense. I want one for target shooting.
If you tell yourself that you carry a gun for bear prevention, read some stories about brown bear attacks in Alaska. Most of the time you will NEVER have enough time to unholster or swing a big stick, let alone squeeze off a few well-placed shots. Bears move fast, and it usually takes several slugs to bring 'em down.
bullets kill people????really.prove it.i have to see this...........

[teamextreme]

Pretty new to this forum, but this thread AMAZES me. I had no idea so many people carried guns. I hike all the time and one?.never came across any crackheads or crazy people, and two.?never saw a reason to carry a gun (knock on wood). I encountered a mt lion once, I guess it would have been nice if the scene got ugly. Do you people thing this group is a reflection of society or a niche group? So far at least 10 of you say you carry guns, does that mean in other forums, I will see the same thing? Just wondering? Walking out the door with a handgun would never cross my mind. I am not anti-gun, just not something I think about.


I would guess this is a dissproportionate sampling since they are all responses to the question "do you carry?". Most people who's interest is piqued enough to read the post, and certainly enough to post are going to be people who are into guns and do carry. In my 20+ years worth of mountain activities I've only seen one guy openly carrying. That was wheeling on Holy Cross about 10 years ago.

I can totally see and agree with the insurance argument, etc. but I don't carry and tend to not worry about it for the same reason I don't buy lottery tickets....I understand statistics.

[Steve]

Don't count on it. I'm willing to bet that if you talked to the forest rangers in that area they would have stories that would surprise you.
I doubt it where I go. I don't foresee many crackheads hiking the 10+ miles into a wilderness area that it would take to get there. :shrug:

[JKTODD]

Chuck Norris doesn't go hunting. Chuck Norris goes killing.

----oh wrong thread-my bad.

[Jeff Mason]

Saying that people carry because they 'can' implies a sense of self-righteousness or bravado on the part of the person that is carrying. That they only have it because of some special status or something.

Likewise, you throw out the word "need" like you are talking to a claiorvoyant person, or someone that can travel to the future and see exactly what kind of sh!t is gonna fall down on them on that day.

I would venture to say that most carry because there is a possibility that somebody, somewhere, will act out against them and/or their family in a manner that cannot be dealt with through words and wishes only. It may never happen to me, but it seems to happen to a lot of people in a lot of different circumstances.

That Campground story is right in line with wheeling. they were in a remote area, in the mountains. Ever been on a remote mountain trail with youngsters only to come upon a ford TEMPO in the middle of the trail, being bashed and trashed to get over an obstacle. I'm sure that they were just taking grandma's car out for a stroll. :rolleyes:

Are you saying that because it is hard to find an article that is titled "4x4 person saved by use of force against crackheads on a remote trail" the threat does not exist??

the bottom line is there is no need to explain or rationalize to anyone else.

[Jeepindog]

:rolleyes: Are you saying that because it is hard to find an article that is titled "4x4 person saved by use of force against crackheads on a remote trail" the threat does not exist??

Somewhat.

I always go Jeepin' with a group. If there is a guerilla (or ape) force waiting around a blind corner to ambush the entire group, then I guess I'll just be one of the victims. Never seen it, never heard of it, been wheelin' a lot in a few different states, and I just don't see the need to carry a gun for defense from anyone. If you go looking for trouble, you're going to find it. Sure, there are lots of random acts that get innocent people hurt, but those numbers are in very low percentages. If you carry because you don't want to be one of those very small statistics, then that appears that you are looking for trouble.
Not trying to be a dick at all. Just stating my perception. If I'm way off the mark, one of you will steer me right. So, if you come upon a situation where someone has a gun, and you are for some reason unable to simply remove yourself from the situation (remote area, confined area, whatever) and the crazy dude has a gun, what will he do when he sees you pull your gun? I say he starts shooting, instantly. Before you pulled the gun you had a whole different dynamic in that circumstance. Discuss...

[MonkeyBomb]

You want stories. Well when I say attacked I mean attacked the a-hole wasn't trying to hug me. I was 30 miles from anywhere. The next was not wheeling but it was in a remote area. I was on Shelf road once and Me and my partner. Were on our way back from tactical training. One car stopped in front of us (no plates) and another pulled up way behind us and tried to block us in. The front two got out with guns. We were still in uniform and so did we. They ran like hell. Never did find out who it was we didn't have any radios or cellphones at the time. Roughly ten years ago. Never found out who but I never heard of it happening again. Things happen. Rarely but they happen. I carry because I carry for a living. I don't have a problem with other decent folk who do. I think that if you choose not to thats cool also. It is your comfort level and common sense that make the most difference to me. As for being shot at, way too often for my taste.:D

[denverd0n]

I doubt it where I go.
You doubt it. I've talked to forest rangers before about this kind of thing. I have no doubt at all.

[Steve]

You doubt it. I've talked to forest rangers before about this kind of thing. I have no doubt at all.
Good for you. :thumbsup: We'll agree to disagree then, at least where I've been going backpacking for lots of years.

What's funny about this thread is those of us who choose not to carry aren't trying to convince anyone else to change their minds, but many who do choose to carry are doing their best to change our minds. Why? I respect your choice, why can't you respect mine? :confused:

[MonkeyBomb]

Back to the original question Hiking. I have never had a problem. Hiking the only thing I see is animals. I hike where most people aren't. But I still Carry..............LOL:D

[shains91]

The only time that I go hiking is when I go camping. I always take a gun with me when I camp, but have never carried it when I have gone hiking. I do not have a reason why, never thought about it.

[Jeff Mason]

What's funny about this thread is those of us who choose not to carry aren't trying to convince anyone else to change their minds, but many who do choose to carry are doing their best to change our minds. Why? I respect your choice, why can't you respect mine? :confused:

Are you talking in general, or specifically in this thread, 'cause I'm having a helluva time finding anywhere in this thread where anyone has tried to convince you to change your mind. I do see lots of questions trying to understand why someone would look at a certain situation or potential situation that might occur and be prepared for it, and people answering back... :shrug: :shrug:

[sweater]

So how many of you gun-totin' badasses have actually been shot at?
I know that you're probably not trying to be a dick, but that comment's up there with "How many of you people drive H2's because your penis is small?" It's an inflammatory way to ask a legitimate question, and I'm pretty proud that the people that've responded to you didn't do so in the same fashion.

With that said, if you ever want to see it, I will show you the scar on my lower-right back where I was shot roughly 15 years ago.

- mike

[Gunter]

the animosity in some of this thread defies explanation?people who go out of the city do get preyed upon by criminals.remember the guys who got killed in lefthand canyon way back when?they were shooting and a guy claimed to be a cop,and they put the guns down and he shot and killed 3 of the 4 (i think).
can you imagine anything worse than to be camping or broke down on a remote road,and have you wife or daughter raped and /or mudered with you and your family?and you being a gun owner,left all your guns at home?and you can do nothing but plead and pray?
not me or my family.if anyone wants to bring some evil to me out in the wild areas,he best be prepared to get killed doing it.no calm animals here going to the slaughter,but fully armed and ready and willing to stay alive.
you all agree to be prepared with camping gear,food shelter etc,why not a gun as well?and for those who choose not to,dont rail on us who do.
so do we have trails and campgrounds for gun toting folks,and for the knife packers,and the totally unarmed?carry what you feel comfortable with.if nothing,good for you.

[Jeepindog]

the animosity in some of this thread defies explanation?people who go out of the city do get preyed upon by criminals.remember the guys who got killed in lefthand canyon way back when?they were shooting and a guy claimed to be a cop,and they put the guns down and he shot and killed 3 of the 4 (i think).
can you imagine anything worse than to be camping or broke down on a remote road,and have you wife or daughter raped and /or mudered with you and your family?and you being a gun owner,left all your guns at home?and you can do nothing but plead and pray?
not me or my family.if anyone wants to bring some evil to me out in the wild areas,he best be prepared to get killed doing it.no calm animals here going to the slaughter,but fully armed and ready and willing to stay alive.
you all agree to be prepared with camping gear,food shelter etc,why not a gun as well?and for those who choose not to,dont rail on us who do.
so do we have trails and campgrounds for gun toting folks,and for the knife packers,and the totally unarmed?carry what you feel comfortable with.if nothing,good for you.


Great post. Some of you who are praising the attributes of carrying actually *DO* sound like badasses, and that's great, in my opinion. There are far too many pussies in society who would never consider defending themselves, preferring instead to "let the law handle it." Well, when the nearest law is too far away to save your hide, you have to save it yourself. That's why I asked my question: there *MUST* be some stories behind the reasons some people carry. MonkeyBomb's stories are just what I was looking for. I don't want to hear them so I can say, "The cars that stopped on the road may have been poachers, and when they saw your uniforms they ran." That's just useless and dumb speculation. The point is that he was involved in a threat in a remote area. I think a lot of you have given plenty of good examples of how carrying a gun is another step in being prepared. Like I said before, I want a gun. Too expensive.

[jnschwie]

Too bad all those guys weren't packing heat so they could have at least defended themselves. Oh wait..... :rolleyes:

Lamest example evar. :flipoff2:

Disagree.



Edit: Clearly, you didn't even read the article.

Edit x2: I'll just explain.
1) They weren't packing heat. http://home.comcast.net/~JSchwiesow/wtf2.gif The article clearly states that.

2) It does state that 1 (of the 8) had a firearm. Although it was referred to as a rifle, my guess is that CBS got it wrong. Because...

3) Wisconsin has no rifle deer season. (Muzzleloader excepted, which would be virtually no help against the hmong's illegal SKS semi-auto rifle) and therefore...

4) If he had a shotty, do you really think he has the range that the rifle does? This is a heavily wooded area, and this guy is under cover. AND, the whole case was so unusual, why would he go out shooting? (Granted, he should've when he had his "rifle pointed at the guy" -which was a debated point). Even still,

5) Wisconsin does NOT have a CCW, nor do they allow open carry. So, any of these 8 "packing heat" as you suggest, would be doing it illegally. AND we have no evidence this was the case. You *may* open carry a sidearm while actively hunting. Seeing as how none of them had weapons (besides the one), my guess would be none were hunting and therefore, NONE would have pistols or anything else either.

6) The hmong up there (and I'm sorry to generalize) are notorious for not following hunting rules or seasons. They hunt small game continuously, and per my avid hunter roommate who lives not far from there, tend not to follow rules regarding weapons and ammo either.

SO...Why would it be a lame example again? http://home.comcast.net/~JSchwiesow/wtf2.gif

[jnschwie]

What's funny about this thread is those of us who choose not to carry aren't trying to convince anyone else to change their minds, but many who do choose to carry are doing their best to change our minds. Why? I respect your choice, why can't you respect mine? :confused:

I don't see either expecting to change anyone's minds. :shrug:

I see the non-carry crew insisting the carry crew are paranoids, and the carry crew insisting the non are living in denial. Clearly both are right. 99.9% of the time, nothing happens (thankfully), but there are definite instances (and given anecdotes from people here) where the opposite is true.

But I, for one, sincerely don't care which a person chooses. :)

[Steve]

I don't see either expecting to change anyone's minds. :shrug:

I see the non-carry crew insisting the carry crew are paranoids, and the carry crew insisting the non are living in denial. Clearly both are right. 99.9% of the time, nothing happens (thankfully), but there are definite instances (and given anecdotes from people here) where the opposite is true.

But I, for one, sincerely don't care which a person chooses. :)

Well said Josh.

I wonder how many of the carriers who are worried about the small chance of something happening routinely drive around without a seat belt? :stirpot:

[ecamp55]

There are far too many pussies in society who would never consider defending themselves, preferring instead to "let the law handle it."

Couldn't have said it better myself

[jnschwie]

Well said Josh.

I wonder how many of the carriers who are worried about the small chance of something happening routinely drive around without a seat belt? :stirpot:

You know what is weird? I distinctly remember the first accident I was ever in. Maybe 4-5 years old and in the front passenger seat of my mom's Ford Escort when a full size econoline just backed up into us because it was too far into the street (this was a parking lot exit). No seatbelt then or ever when I was that age, and there wasn't a law at the time. I don't think my mom (ER nurse) even had her seatbelt on. It feels weird to back the car out of my garage now without a seatbelt. :shrug:

But along those same lines....
Who goes without insurance? And what types? (Home/auto/life/health?)
Who doesn't have simple things like jumper cables and flashlights in the car?

I honestly feel really weird even leaving the house without a cell phone for fear of emergency, and it was just a short 5 years ago I didn't even own one. :eek:

[denverd0n]

What's funny about this thread is those of us who choose not to carry aren't trying to convince anyone else to change their minds...
Well, you're not, but others here seem pretty intent on casting all the aspersions possible on the mental stability of anyone who would choose to carry a weapon.

As far as agreeing to disagree... Well, nothing to disagree about, really. All I did was suggest that you should talk to the forest rangers and get their perspective (my strong suspicion, having talked to some myself, being that they would tell you that you are wrong). You don't want to do that, however, preferring to cling to your preconceptions, I guess that's your choice. I wouldn't call it agreeing to disagree, though.

[Budman]

My turn.

I carry all the time (as long as it is legal) When Hiking/Camping/wheeling, I often have multiple weapons at my disposal. When "In Town" I carry my concealed weapon.

As for the examples... Here is the best example of why I carry (http://www.answers.com/topic/luby-s-massacre), it is not a wilderness example, but to me the entire world is one big wilderness.

Here is the most pertinant (sp) part.

[quote article] It should be noted that many of the patrons, such as Suzanna Hupp, had firearms in their vehicles but by law were not allowed to carry them on their person. Survivors and family of the victims, with the help of the media, were successful in moving lawmakers to consider the concept of conceal carry permits for citizens. As a direct result of this massacre, in 1995 Texas lawmakers, led by Suzanna Gratia Hupp (whose parents were both killed in the massacre), passed a law that allowed Texas citizens to obtain a concealed carry handgun permit in part as a reaction against the massacre. Soon after many states considered similar weapon permits for lawful citizens.[quote]


In my quick research on this, I ran across this article on Wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concealed_carry)

To answer some of the other questions/accusations on here:

Yes, I have been shot at.
Yes I have used my weapon to defend myself
No, I am not some sort of badass
No my weapon is not an extension of my male member
I grew up in the sticks of MO, and the national forest land around there is a favorite place for people to grow thier pot, so if not "Crack heads" then Crazed out pot heads.

[jnschwie]

I grew up in the sticks of MO, and the national forest land around there is a favorite place for people to grow thier pot, so if not "Crack heads" then Crazed out pot heads.

It might be important to note the distinction that in many cases of the illicit drug world, the producers are not necessarily the consumers.

So, you may not run into the proverbial "crackhead" junkie -but even a "clean" meth lab "worker" may be angry and scared enough to do something irrational.

[Budman]

It might be important to note the distinction that in many cases of the illicit drug world, the producers are not necessarily the consumers.

So, you may not run into the proverbial "crackhead" junkie -but even a "clean" meth lab "worker" may be angry and scared enough to do something irrational.

You make a good point. The producers would be the one's that scare me. That is a big cash crop that they are protecting.

[sames]

I always carry (except at work)

[Yota]

I don't see either expecting to change anyone's minds. :shrug:

I see the non-carry crew insisting the carry crew are paranoids, and the carry crew insisting the non are living in denial. Clearly both are right. 99.9% of the time, nothing happens (thankfully), but there are definite instances (and given anecdotes from people here) where the opposite is true.

But I, for one, sincerely don't care which a person chooses. :)

You know I was in the "they're paranoid" crowd too for decades. I didn't even consider carrying a gun until *after* I purchased one and began reading articles and gradually tuning into the reasons that people carry. Like many people, I had always dismissed gun carriers as paranoids. Yet in hindsight, I realize that I was the one who was always looking over my shoulder in a rough neighborhood (where I lived and worked).

Ironically, since beginning to carry, I find that I am far *less* paranoid than when I didn't carry one. I still maintain a certain situational awareness just as I did before carrying, but I do it without the anxiety the came from knowing that if something happened, I had no options.

So the paranoid thing, while an attractive stereotype (mostly for the antis), has proven to be precisely the opposite in my experience.

Another huge stereotype is that gun carriers are some kind of chip-on-the-shoulder macho men just looking to blast someone. Well believe me when I say that any CCW class worth its salt should scare any such person straight. When I began to realize just how much absolute shit *any* person who uses a gun in defense *always* gets dragged through I actually considered not carrying. It is frightening. You go from victim to instant criminal in the media - especially if you're white and the attacker isn't. The media literally hate guns. They put cops up as heroes yet tear them down if they use their gun. No, there is no machismo or glamor in carrying a gun. It is only there for when someone tries to threaten my life. Other than that, it's just a bulky uncomfortable lump under my clothes.

I don't care if a person carries or not. I just want to dispell the ignorance.

[denverd0n]

I just want to dispell the ignorance.
Good luck. When it comes to this particular subject, though, the ignorant are usually there through deliberate choice and considerable effort.

[ccondrey]

Another huge stereotype is that gun carriers are some kind of chip-on-the-shoulder macho men just looking to blast someone.

I agree, and like you said generally the opposite is true. Most I have met go to great lengths to avoid confrontations of any sort.

[newracer]

I carry pretty much all the time. I carry because I want to be able to protect myself and my family at all times and situations. I figure if I am going to own a firearm why leave it at home in the safe? I could not live with myself if something happened to my family and I chose to not be armed. Like others posted I truly hope I NEVER need to use it but I am prepared to do so if the situation arises.

[Jeepindog]

Yes, I have been shot at.
Yes I have used my weapon to defend myself


You are in the military, correct? Have you ever been shot at while not engaged with a known enemy? I'm asking if you've been shot at by any crazed pot heads, or regular crazed freaks in plain old society, right here in the USA, in Colorado, in Denver, on a hiking trail, etc. I think most people asking this type of question would all unequivocally reject examples of military encounters, or law enforcement action.

[Yota]

So how many of you gun-totin' badasses have actually been shot at? You don't hear too many stories, and in this day, it would be all over the news that some demented freak (crackhead?) shot at a 'wheeler while out on a trail.

Just curious. I want a gun, too, but my wife said, "You can't hang with a Super Soaker..."

Should people only carry after they've been shot at then?

[jnschwie]

I could not live with myself if something happened to my family and I chose to not be armed.

Right there pretty much nailed what puts gun on person for me -even when I don't want to have it. I don't ever want to live through what Hupp lived through at Luby's. Nice bright day, nice neighborhood, bad massacre out of nowhere.

Now, that said, if I were in that situation, would I shoot? Probably not, for all the reasons Yota said. I'd look for an exit first. If my family was in immediate danger and clearly it would make the difference, then yes. If others were getting killed and I could clearly and SAFELY take out the assailant, then probably.

[Yota]

Somewhat.

I always go Jeepin' with a group. If there is a guerilla (or ape) force waiting around a blind corner to ambush the entire group, then I guess I'll just be one of the victims. Never seen it, never heard of it, been wheelin' a lot in a few different states, and I just don't see the need to carry a gun for defense from anyone. If you go looking for trouble, you're going to find it. Sure, there are lots of random acts that get innocent people hurt, but those numbers are in very low percentages. If you carry because you don't want to be one of those very small statistics, then that appears that you are looking for trouble.
Not trying to be a dick at all. Just stating my perception. If I'm way off the mark, one of you will steer me right. So, if you come upon a situation where someone has a gun, and you are for some reason unable to simply remove yourself from the situation (remote area, confined area, whatever) and the crazy dude has a gun, what will he do when he sees you pull your gun? I say he starts shooting, instantly. Before you pulled the gun you had a whole different dynamic in that circumstance. Discuss...

There are books written with plenty of examples of defense shootings. Look them up if you care to, but understand this: in most states it has not been legal to carry a weapon on one's person until just recently.

This notion that people who carry guns do so because they are looking for trouble is 180 degrees incorrect. People carry guns because sometimes trouble is looking for them. This is a fact. And there is no way to predict when it might find them, so why try to guess?

You talk about the low percentages? And you say only cops need a gun? Well ask any woman who has been raped about percentages. Talk to the victim of any violent crime about percentages. It is a low percentage but it carries an unbelievably high price when it does happen.

It's easy for people to imagine us as gun-toting billy badasses but that's because those people aren't the ones who would get their asses handed to them by the media, half the public and lawyers after a *legal* defense shooting. Once one understands the reality of what happens after a defense shooting, it tends to make one very much want to avoid such a thing.

I carry a gun but it doesn't alter my behavior. I still would not walk up to a crew of people hanging out on your average Colfax street corner and shout "word up, homies!" In other words, I still avoid conflict. In fact, I avoid it even more judiciously now because I don't want some fool to force me into a defensive shooting because he thought I looked like a victim.

To sum this up, I carry a gun when I don't need it so that it is there in case I do need it. Beyond that it's just an uncomfortable lump.

[Yota]

Another common misconception is that those who carry are wannabe cops.

I don't want to be a cop. Trust me. I just want to have an option to defend myself if and only if someone is directly threatening my life. That's it.

Besides, carrying a concealed weapon would help me not at all.

__________________________

Myth #5: We use our weapons to intimidate others.

How can one use a weapon to intimidate another when the weapon must remain invisible? That defies logic. The weapon remains hidden at all times. The only time one can produce a weapon is *after* one's life has been threatened. (And since action beats reaction, the ccw holder is still at a disadvantage)

Those who put forth this myth must have us, the law-abiding citizens who carry concealed weapons, confused with gangstas or thugs or other criminals who do the "flash your piece" thing. Flashing a piece for intimidation is a crime for anyone, but it is one that is committed far less often by a legal CCW holder than by other idiots with guns.

[Steve]

Here's what I've gotten from three pages of this thread: Some people choose to carry; some don't. The ones who carry are paranoid; the ones who don't are ignorant, and according to one person, pussies.

Okay, got it. :spit:

[Budman]

You are in the military, correct? Have you ever been shot at while not engaged with a known enemy? I'm asking if you've been shot at by any crazed pot heads, or regular crazed freaks in plain old society, right here in the USA, in Colorado, in Denver, on a hiking trail, etc. I think most people asking this type of question would all unequivocally reject examples of military encounters, or law enforcement action.

The references in my post were not during my time in combat. Now, the guy who shot at me was just plain crazy. His property joins my dad's, and he thought he owned the entire county. One day I was on the back of my dad's property, and he started shooting at me. I was armed at the time, (and probably should have shot him) but I took the high road. I hit the ground, stayed under cover and exfilled (got the hell outa dodge). Had I not been able to get outta there, I would not have hesitated to defend myself to the best of my ability. He has been nothing but trouble since he moved in. He now thinks he owns the road going past his house, and throws rocks at you as you drive buy. If you stop, he will shoot at you from his yard.


The defense of myself was in a not so good neighborhood in KC. Did not have to fire, but I drew, and would have fired if the guy had not instantly dropped his knife and take off like a bat out of he!!.

[jnschwie]

Here's what I've gotten from three pages of this thread: Some people choose to carry; some don't. The ones who carry are paranoid; the ones who don't are ignorant, and according to one person, pussies.

Okay, got it. :spit:



Yes, but it is a great time waster, quite fun, and in some cases funny.

[jnschwie]

You talk about the low percentages? And you say only cops need a gun? Well ask any woman who has been raped about percentages. Talk to the victim of any violent crime about percentages. It is a low percentage but it carries an unbelievably high price when it does happen.


http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/cvict.htm

Its probably not as low in percentages as well all like to believe.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/glance/viort.gif

Edit: So, 1 in 50. Wonder how many go unreported?

[Jeepindog]

I'll bet a lot of cases go unreported. Budman, good stories. Sounds like you not only have a level head and a lot of experience, but a bad neighbor, too.

Yota, I would agree that the reality of those who carry "are looking for trouble" is wrong. That was what I was implying, that's why I said it appears that way. I have been very fortunate in that I have never had the need to defend myself from serious harm. When I was in high school we used to have keg parties out in the middle of nowhere. One guy didn't like me because I sat next to the girl he was stalking in one of our classes. He used to sneak up behind me and my buddies while we were at these parties with his shotgun. He would point it right at our heads and yell BOOM! Everybody thought he was an ass hat, and eventually he stopped doing it. (By the way, this was not potentially serious harm because his shotgun was never loaded.) Someone pointed out once that we were about 40 miles from the nearest police station, and that he would be long gone by the time a LEO showed up. If I had a gun in that situation, and I produced it, I have no doubt that things would have escalated to someone's death. That's where judgement comes in. Even with a gun, it's best to find an exit, and resort to the gun last, as has been stated in this thread several times. It's usually pretty easy to avoid situations that endanger your life. Sometimes those situations find you.

[Yota]

Yeah in the situation you described, you knew the guy well enough that he was at your keg party. Yet he was an idiot (drunken idiot?) with a gun by pointing it at your head. If you carried a concealed weapon, you would not produce it unless you intended to shoot that guy. Since you knew him, you might judge that he is an idiot, but otherwise means no harm. If your hypothetical weapon came out of its hypothetical holster, it would have to be to fire it in immediate self defense. So for example, one would not draw a weapon to make someone else with a weapon back off. Draw with the intent of shooting only. If you draw with the intent of shooting and the other guy backs off then great. But one should never draw thinking that that will scare the other person into putting down his gun. So yeah there is a lot of judgement involved.

Guns around alcohol are a whole other issue.

[Budman]

In 2005 for every 1,000 persons age 12 or older, there occurred

--1 rape or sexual assault
--1 assault with injury
--3 robberies

from the website above. Now take the number of active members on here and do the math. A little scary isn't it. Think I will do the paperwork required to be able to carry to work.

[Dunedain313]

I want real stories about people "needing" weapons to defend themselves. Seriously, tell me you carry because you *CAN* not because you *NEED* to. Unless you're a LEO, you don't *NEED* a gun, unless you plan to shoot someone.

Ok, when I was 13 a guy walked into my church and started shooting. A guy with a CCW permit stood up and took him out. If it wasn't for him, I might not be here.

If you tell yourself that you carry a gun for bear prevention, read some stories about brown bear attacks in Alaska. Most of the time you will NEVER have enough time to unholster or swing a big stick, let alone squeeze off a few well-placed shots. Bears move fast, and it usually takes several slugs to bring 'em down.

My uncle took out a bear with one shot in Idaho. 44mag, behind the ear. I wouldn't call that a common example but, in his case, it worked.

Just a couple of real-world examples from both the city and the mountains.

[Jeepindog]

But one should never draw thinking that that will scare the other person into putting down his gun. So yeah there is a lot of judgement involved.

So you mean it's not like the movies? :) Thanks for all of the info you guys have provided. Kind of opens my eyes a bit, thinking about the stories you have told. That's why I asked for them in the first place.

Lachlan

[Gunter]

So you mean it's not like the movies? :) Thanks for all of the info you guys have provided. Kind of opens my eyes a bit, thinking about the stories you have told. That's why I asked for them in the first place.

Lachlan

honestly, a drunk agressive person pointing a firearm at my head is going to be shot.any idea how many drunks "playing" with "unloaded" firearms have killed innocent people?WAY more than rogue cops!!
ALL guns must be treated as loaded.that is the first or second safe gun handling rule of all!!
btw,i was 16,and lived at warren and cherokee.i am home alone,and hear a window breaking,into the home of the people upstairs.they both are at work.i look up out of the basement window,and see a guy looking under a tarp my dad had over an engine.when i opened the door with a shotgun,all i saw was a foot and an ankle flying over the wall,and i gave chase.he would have passed michael johnson i bet!
been shooting since age 9,maybe more closer to 10.cant remember.i can not imagine any worse way to die,than to have the skill,the tools,and the mental toughness and desire to live,and be rounded up by an armed dirtbag,and then executed.because i have no weapons at hand.
yeah,we should live in barneyland,where we dont need them,but knowing the nature of humans,we wont be there for a 4-5 thousand years.till then,i have guns.LOTS of guns,and the know how to use them all.

[sames]

I have been shot at once, in rural Iowa. I was 21 and had no weapon. I ran like a deer. It was not a good feeling knowing some asshat was trying to kill me. I was young and able to run then, now I am old and slow. That is why I carry.

[Yota]

I have been shot at once, in rural Iowa. I was 21 and had no weapon. I ran like a deer. It was not a good feeling knowing some asshat was trying to kill me. I was young and able to run then, now I am old and slow. That is why I carry.

Clark Kent, is that you?

The rest of us, young or not, aren't faster than a speeding bullet. :D :D

(Deer aren't very good at outrunning speeding bullets either. hehe)

[Whitey]

I always carry (except at work)

I carry always.

I also have a fire extinguisher in my Jeep and house, plus fire alarms that I change the batteries in yearly. Also have insurance on my cars & properties.

So, I don't think I'm paranoid, just astute in knowing things can & do happen. There are people that will do us harm if left to their own devices, knowing this causes me to take proactive measures.

Yup, I always carry. Both single and double action or whatever fits and is appropriate for the occasion. Generally more than just one weapon too. :thumbsup:

[DanaT]

Yes. I carry when in the mountains. Sometimes open. Many (most) times not open.

To chime in as briefly as I can, why? Yes statisics are "low" that somethimg will happen. But unlike the lottery, if you loose, many times its not that you don't gain money but you loose your (or someone) close life.

On a day-to-day basis I don't carry. Why? In general, I think that having the ability to CCW brings on more responsibility. Most of the time, I feel that if I NEED to carry a weapon, especially in the urban setting, then maybe I should re-think going into that area. That said, there are times, especially when working late at night and coming home in a semi-rural area I will carry. In the mountains, there are so many variables, that I carry. There are different types of critters that I hopefully will never enounter and need a weapon for. In addition, when I go camping I like to shoot.

As far as the bada$$es who have been shot at. That I agree was inflamatory. Is a cop who has never been shot at a poor cop or a good cop? In some ways, a cop who has served 20 years and never been shot at and never had to discharge, maybe is very good. He (or she) was able to control situations without a discharge of firearms. Maybe he just got lucky.

As far as being paranoid. I have car insurance. I have a huge umbrella policy. I always wear a seatbeat.

When I ride a motorcycle I always wear a helmet, gloves, jacket, armour, etc. Now, why should I do this? I have never been involved in a wreck on the street (in a car or bike). It hasn't happened in about 20 years, so shouldn't I assume that it never will?

Remember, police do not have a duty to protect any specific person. They have a duty to protect society. There have been numerous course cases to say police are not liable for not protecting a person even when they are present. The police are there to try and solve your murder, not prevent it. How many times do you call 911 BEFORE something has happened? There is a reason they are called "responders". Why don't you try this. Next time you get in a strange area of town that you feel unsafe, call 911, and say "hi, can you send an officer immediately, I don't feel safe in this area. I would like police to escort me."

-Dana

[tysonxj]

Disagree.

3) Wisconsin has no rifle deer season. (Muzzleloader excepted, which would be virtually no help against the hmong's illegal SKS semi-auto rifle) and therefore...
http://home.comcast.net/~JSchwiesow/wtf2.gif[/IMG]


Wisconsin most definitely has a rifle deer hunting season. Is that why you think the SKS is illegal?

Chris

[jnschwie]

Only a few Southern counties do, and yes, that would've been the reason.
Since I'm from SE WI (like 75% of the population) -rifles never even come to mind.


Edit: I stand corrected, though. He was in a rifle legal county (Sawyer).
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/wildlife/regs/Deer06.pdf

[philip_g]

Always, like many here.

See too many weirdos out in the backcountry. When I was a kid the old man always carried his 44 mag when we went hiking, but I think it was mostly in case he saw any rock chuckers lol