Some thoughts from a New Licensee

[glockoneniner]

I've been reflecting on my first few weeks of carrying a handgun and wanted to share some thoughts.

I carry a Glock 19 OWB and my initial fear of EVERYONE knowing is like an amusing dream. I must say that having to wait better than two months ended up being a blessing. I carried darn near every day around the house and that was definitely the key to becoming more comfortable when the plastic arrived. I feel 100% at ease going out into the world with a gun on my side. In fact, there are a few shirts that I'll wear that are not the best choice and I'm still comfortable. I have become hyper-aware of my surroundings and the fact of the matter is: people are oblivious. I was at my kids baseball practice, threw a ball and my shirt came up and exposed the G19 right in front of a few people and they either didn't notice or didn't care. (Granted, his manager is a Constable who has kidded me for carrying at practice - though, not that particular day).

It is very strange to think that I may actually have to use my gun at some point. Would I pull the trigger? In an adrenaline charged moment how am I going to know if I'm making the right call? I realize there are some no-brainer scenarios in which I would not hesitate to discharge my firearm. But, what about the more subtle situation where I may be justified, but a jury of my peers may see things differently? These are things that if one said to me a year ago would be on my mind, I would have laughed in his face. The whole thought of being arrested/indicted is terrifying to me and that's what keeps me thinking, "Am I doing the right thing by carrying a gun!?" I guess it's better to be prepared than having to second-guess myself. Scary, nonetheless.

I'm very thankful for this right and for this great community. I became disabled four years ago and up until I came to the decision to be a gun owner/CHLer I would have been extremely vulnerable - and, still am to a point. Certainly, nowhere nearly so now.

I don't carry absolutely every time I leave the house, though I must say I'm getting to the point where I'm almost feeling naked without it. Longtooth is right - Carry 24/7, or guess right.

Carrying a gun has made me a bit more patient (especially on the roads) and a little calmer overall. It is a huge responsibility and privilege and I am honored to be a part of a special fraternity.

Thank you all for your time - I apologize if I've been too wordy. I just wanted to share some initial thoughts with you all.

Regards.

[txinvestigator]

Very well put thoughts.

Be sure and seek additional training. It will help you with some of those questions.

Welcome to carry

[BrassMonkey]

Better to be judged by 12 then carried by 6.

[TIN BENDER]

GREAT POST !

You and I are a lot alike.

Excited and anxious to know more.

These members of this forum are great.

I'll be lookin' forward to more of your comments

Good Luck.

[DSARGE]

glockoneniner,
I agree with you on some of your points and share your same on being calmer and more relaxed--yet more aware. I feel, and have been trained that mental preparation is the best method to get yourself ready for any situation. For myself, I am doing the right thing. I have carried a gun professionally all over the world for 12 years, but it is different carrying "recreationally". An old saying in my job is "don't die with the safety off", which basically means be aware and don't go unprepared.

[GlockenHammer]

You are on the path to enlightenment, Grasshopper.