Everyone has their anecdotes.
The bottom line: if you want to carry, do it. If you don't, don't.
There really isn't room for debate here. You might as well argue the merit/detriment of purchasing that extra insurance on rental cars. To each his own.
I will note, however, that the geekiest post of the thread goes to the guy who "parries" with assailants. Martial arts references always win...hahahaha.