Originally Posted by
RichardGlover
Carrying a gun doesn't mean you have to use it. Having it gives you options. But be aware that if you have it, you have to also consider what your options are if an attacker makes a grab for it. (and another reason that I'm not terribly fond of open carry except as a political statement).
It also reduces your options. When not carrying you can get away with a lot more beligerence and posturing (which is all too common--just read A&S sometime), but when carrying, doing so will result in criminal charges even if you then have a legitimate reason to use the firearm in self-defense... Which is another reason that lawful CHL people tend to be less involved in violent actions than the general population...