While I do really like that so many states have legal Open Carry of firearms, I am not really that enthusiastic about carrying openly. It would be one thing if I were in a “Dodge City” apocalyptic environment – then I would want to carry a submachine gun 0r an assault rifle. But short of that, I see no advantage to it, other than desensitizing the public to the presence of firearms.
From a purely tactical perspective, I see two disadvantages to Open Carry for me.
First, with Open Carry I lose the tactical advantage of surprise. This is huge. If some crazy person wanted to start shooting everyone, the first one he would shoot is me, since he can see that I am armed and therefore a threat to him and his evil plans. With Concealed Carry, I can draw my firearm and defend myself just as fast (adding perhaps a fraction of a second for uncovering) and do so when I choose.
Second, with Open Carry, I can become a target for some moron who wishes to steal my gun. If I am accosted by two or more bad guys up close, the odds of my retaining my firearm when they have the initiative are slim. It could be in a crowd or just people passing me in the parking lot while I can carrying groceries or have something else in my hand. Surprised up close by the bad guys, I will probably lose. Thus, stealth has its advantages.
Don’t get me wrong. I am all in favor of being able to Open Carry. I am just not convinced that it is for me. At least not yet.
