I've been thinking about carrying a lot recently. Not because I feel the need to, but because I'm going through the process of getting my CCW. In NY, it's required to have the CCW in order to own a handgun. Period. Most shops won't even take one out of the case if you can't show you have a permit.
I currently don't feel the need to carry. I'm of the mindset that if I feel I need to carry someplace, I just don't go there.
I recently met someone that carries all the time. He's a part-time "special" cop (basically fills in for events and such when needed), and never leaves home without carrying something. He's also the one that got me into wanting ot build an AR15. But that's another post. Until meeting him, I never really thought about carrying, nor had much of an opinion on it. But now, going out, as much as he tries to cover it up, you still catch glimpses of it when his shirt moves. Does it make me feel more comfortable? I don't know. I suppose in a way it does, but at the same time I don't think about the fact either.
I've always had a healthy fear/respect for guns. I get nervous carrying one when I hunt. I'm keenly aware of what I'm doing with it from a safety standpoint. I don't even like looking down a barrel that's not attached to a gun. So the idea of carrying one and not having it in my hand makes me slightly uneasy because of the *chance* of it accidentally going off. That fact alone may prevent me from carrying in anything other than a carry bag or locking case.
Do I care if others carry? Not really. As long as they're trained in how to use it properly, and don't do things with it that make me uncomfortable with it (pointing it at people/animals, finger on the trigger, etc.). Would I carry? I haven't decided that yet.
