This is my personal opinion:

I try to avoid any and all dangerous situations. If I get that certain feeling in the pit of my stomach I turn around and take a different route. Unfortunately there have been reports of ambushes along the trail I ride on (rarely), so, I really have no defense against that sort of an attack. However, I will be getting a conceal carry permit at 21, which means I will be armed. I doubt I will ever need to use it, but if I do I will only use it when it is 100% necessary and my life is in immediate danger. If I draw my gun, I shoot to kill; center mass. I'd never ever want to take another human beings life, but it's always good to have protection.