Why Concealed Carry Permit Holders Often Choose Not to Carry
Many individuals with concealed carry permits find it uncomfortable and unnecessary to carry a firearm. This article explores the reasons behind this decision, from practicalities to psychological factors.
Carrying Can Be a Pain in the Ass: Comfort and Convenience
Concealed carry is not always comfortable, and it can be a hassle to manage. When you have a firearm, you must dress accordingly, often compromising your comfort and style. The weight of a concealed firearm on your belt or in another concealed carrier can be uncomfortable, and carrying a gun can dig into your body, causing irritation and discomfort.
Negative Experiences and Scared Carriers
For some, the decision to carry a firearm with a permit is a short-lived one. They may feel compelled to follow the news or other high-profile events, leading them to get a carry permit. However, upon closer consideration, they realize their discomfort with the responsibility of carrying a gun or the reality that they might not be able to shoot in emergency situations. This realization can lead to a decision not to carry, despite having the permit.
Laziness, Complacency, and Inaction
A significant number of individuals choose not to carry a firearm, even with a permit, due to laziness and complacency. These individuals may feel they are safe without carrying because they do not think the threat is real. However, as the saying goes, it is always better to have a permit and not need it than to need it and not have it. The training, legal awareness, and preparedness that come with a permit can be invaluable in an emergency situation.
A Real-Life Example: Personal Account of a Permit Holder
I have a concealed carry license (CCL) issued by my State Police, and I am equipped with a firearm 24/7, except during visits to places where guns are not allowed. This is to ensure ready access to firearms in case of emergencies. The training and legal knowledge I have gained through my permit have been invaluable, taking the guesswork out of decision-making during critical moments.
Assessing the Threat by Personal Perception
Not all permit holders carry a firearm regularly. Some individuals choose to carry only when they perceive a higher threat level. This could be based on personal observations or news reports. For example, my son, who legally carries a firearm since he was 19 years old, carries only when he feels the threat is significant. My consistent feeling of responsibility prompts me to carry every time I leave home. After completing my firearms qualification, I was legally allowed to carry at church, a testament to my background and training.
Location-Specific Perceptions and Carrying Practices
Carrying practices can vary significantly based on location. In many places, firearms are not allowed, such as at concerts, sporting events, bars, and public venues. But for those who enjoy outdoors activities or road trips, guns can be a constant companion. Whether hiking or going on a road trip, I always carry my Glock, ensuring I am always ready for any situation.
When I obtained my Massachusetts permit, I applied for the highest class license possible on the same form, opting for comprehensive training and education. The gun safety instructor advised that if you carry at all, it is wiser to carry concealed, as open carry can provoke negative reactions. My own experience with an airsoft pistol reinforced this belief, as it was more cumbersome and uncomfortable than my smartphone.
In conclusion, the decision to carry a firearm, even with a permit, involves a balance of practical considerations and personal comfort. It is essential for those who choose to carry to understand the responsibilities and risks that come with it. Whether you choose to carry or not, being prepared and knowledgeable is always a wise choice.
Keywords: concealed carry, firearm, permit holder