I have absolutely no problem with open carry as a law, I myself prefer to carry Concealed, that doesn’t mean I’m gonna cut try and infringe on restrict anybody else to carry if they want to carry open,
I prefer concealed carry: open carry draws attention that I don’t want. That being said, to each his own. I would hope if you choose to open carry you use a holster with some degree of retention.
Mr. Ayoob, I am nobody judge people or the Law, but I don't believe in open carry for one reason only, if you are open carrying and your out shopping lets say, and somebody is looking to rob this establishment if they are smart they reconnoiter this store if they see your open carry you will be the first target, take out the first threat, please correct me with your thoughts Sir.
I open carry as it is legal in my state. Freemen don't explain themselves or apologize for it. I've never been a victim. My local law enforcement doesn't care that I'm openly armed so no one else should either. I get looks but no one says anything about it.
I doubt that’s actually true, in a setting like a mountain man rendezvous where just about everyone has a gun it’s much easier to open carry without a second thought as it is the norm in that situation instead of drawing attention to you. Yes I understand the statement you made, just pointing out absolutes are based on sets of assumptions that’s are rarely as absolute as assumed when the statement is made. I would never open carry in a major city in a public area unless it’s in a convention or something where It wouldn’t be out of place, but out in rural communities it’s not an issue. I’ve worn my 44 in a quick draw to town and the only person that’s ever said a word about it was an elderly lady who asked about it because it reminded her of the 357 she used to carry when she was younger. No I don’t normally open carry to town because I don’t like to advertise unnecessarily, but I live in bear country so I do frequently open carry when working out in the woods and things happen that send me to town so instead of running into the house and swapping holsters and firearms i just head to town and it is what it is.
I would add to your comment by saying that if someone is going to carry open at least have a good holster and belt. Carry your firearm in a professional manner instead of sloppily or haphazardly. I see some guys in my town wearing cargo shorts with a holster meant for a belt hanging off the side of one of their pockets, it's unnerving and makes me cringe. If the guy tripped and fell his gun would simply fall out on the ground and that is very irresponsible.
@@jaydunbar7538 Do you carry for protection from humans or wildlife? If you are on your own property, like a ranch, open carry is ideal. But when you are out in public, the negatives outweigh the positives, especially in a city.
I'm a cop in Arizona in a medium sized city immediately adjacent to Phoenix. I'd say the populus borders urban and suburban, but the city I work in is large enough that it has rural areas and farms as well. I see people open carrying pretty frequently in all parts of my jurisdiction and it does not bother me in the least bit. I have however observed people with zero situational awareness doing it, in crappy holsters, and sometimes no holster at all just shoved in a pocket or belt with the grip sticking out. The one that worries me is open carriers playing around on their phones, but fortunately I have never had to respond to an incident of a lawfully armed citizen being disarmed. I would like to say "male Karens" as Massad said are absolutely a real thing. I have unfortunately responded to incidents where people have lied about the actions of open carriers and even some criminals who have had guns pulled on them who then tried to call us in retaliation on the concealed carrier. That being said I have never arrested someone because they pointed their finger and said "He/She did X" that does not develop probable cause. What is nice about being a police officer in the digital age is damn near every business, intersection, and many residences have cameras. Cameras don't lie. Every instance I have dealt with of a male Karen lying about a lawfully armed citizen was exonerated on the spot by finding local cameras (and witnesses) and watching footage, and even the couple rare instances of the criminal calling about having had a gun pulled on them (both were attempted carjackings). Thankfully Arizona also criminalizes false reporting to law enforcement and I gladly have and will continue to make those arrests. Great video.
I have been carrying concealed for 43 years. I would never carry open unless I was on my own farm. The element of surprise far exceeds for me the open carry. I have walked into a restaurant with a guy carrying open with his back to the door. I or anyone else could have easily disarmed him and shot him with his own pistol. I also firmly believe that this is the United States and each person has the right to choose what they want to do.
That's how I see it also. The people that say "they can't disarm me because I will feel them trying and stop them" don't understand that if someone is brave enough to take your gun they're brave enough to hit you in the back of the head and disarm you? Criminals follow the path of least resistance and wrestling over a gun isn't their way of getting guns. They'll simply knock you out and then take your gun.
I agreed with you. Escaped from a communist country, served in their military in the war in Angola, lost an arm. I thank God for the USA, but I also see that this wonderful nation have been taken over by the left wing Democrats. We see it in the public schools and Universities. They are all controlled by the Marxists Socialist who want to take our freedom. With this idiot J B as commander in shit, open borders with Mexico and Canada, we must be prepared for the worst. I am 68 y o. Ready to do whatever it takes. This is the only bastion of freedom in the world.
Iam a retired First Seargent with the NCSHP. I strongly support ccw. In my opinion open carry has so many cons. One of my dt instructors told my class " It's not your gun you just bring it to the fight. It belongs to last person who controls it" That was forty years ago and still true today. I prefer to go unnoticed.
And that's why the only time I ever open carry is at a range or when I'm out hunting. Day to day I always concealed carry I don't fumble with or adjust the pistol either but I make sure it stays covered. Typically I'm wearing an owb holster but I have a button up colored long sleeve dress shirt that I leave unbuttoned. Quick easy access to the firearm. My justification for never open carrying in public on a day-to-day basis is simple.. it's unwanted attention. Nobody needs to know that you have a firearm it's not their damn business. And last but not least hypothetically let's say someone's going to do something stupid and they're also carrying a firearm and they see that you're carrying one.. there's a damn good chance that you're there first target. Now they have more than one gun. I just feel that concealed is the best way to go always.
The last point is actually a very real one. I was walking back to my car one night at about 10:00 p.m. when a cop rolled up on me with his lights on. I stopped and kept my hands visible as he got out of the car and approached me. He told me he had received a call that there was a man walking on that street with a gun and asked me if i had a carry permit since my gun was clearly visible in an OWB holster. I informed him I did have a permit and showed it to him. He politely said goodnight and sent me on my way. However, this tells me that someone called the police on me, simply because they saw me with a gun clearly visible on my person with no further information.
I've been "open carrying" since the mid 90's, from a shoulder holster 1911, to a 45 single shot derringer, on my belt, I've had no comments in all those years, except thanks, from the occasional person who notices. I'm a retired Marine, easily identified as such, and living in rural N.C., generally respected. I've stopped two robberies simply by walking into the store with a 1911, and being seen, and the would be thief choosing to leave. I've been carrying since about 69, when my father and I were robbed at gunpoint. I believe always carrying openly informs the community, and I avidly enjoy the conversation with anyone with concerns. I grew up in Chicago, with no intent to carry until we were robbed, and mere possession of a gun has ended several incidents.
The thing about Massad is he is always calm, clear and honest in his assessments. I live in an open carry state and I do carry open on occasion. My decision is made exactly like what was mentioned, where am I going and what will I be doing. I also believe that since it is legal here it's good for the general public to see someone legally carrying and being a good citizen, hold the door for others, smile, be polite. If we don't exercise our rights we will lose them.
I live in a constitutional carry state. I have a CCW so that I can travel to other states and still carry. The only time I open carry is in my home or on my property. Where I am more worried about four legged threats than two legged. Just because I can, does not mean I should. Never give a criminal an even break. Let it be a surprise.
So do you often practice drawing from concealed then? Or when you go to the range to just use the bench or have you ever practiced engaging from the draw? If not your as big as liability as you think open carriers are. More likely more so as you're more likely to get those around you killed attempting to draw after a crime is committed.
@@maddogs1989 Geeze. A TH-cam toughie. My training methods and strategies are none of your business. I have a range on my property. I never shoot off a bench because I haven't built one. I'll probably do so for rifle sighting at some point, but that's not the subject of this video. What do you do that makes you such an authority pray tell? Besides talking tough that is.
Situational awareness is the first step to avoiding having to ever pull your weapon. Know who is around you and what they are doing . Constantly link around .
The Walmart here in Maine has an appliqué door decal welcoming customers with "Gun Owners: Kindly refrain from openly displaying your firearm while shopping". Because it is a Constitutional Carry State they know their customers are carrying so rather than say no firearms allowed they ask to not openly display them, hide them from public view while shopping.
And I would simply carry as I am that day. I don't carry to upset others, or to HIDE the fact i am carrying from others. I carry. Sometimes it is seen, other times it is not. It is not about me being an ass, but about not allowing OTHERS to dictate my exercise of Constitutionally protected Rights, in ways that are legal. And I don't understand how so many others (not saying you are one of them) don't understand this. Target also had an anti-gun policy, and I shopped there as well... not a single employee or customer appeared to care one bit that I was carrying. I am a friendly guy. I don't act aggressive or bother others. I have on my belt two knives, a cellphone in case, and my pistol. Most folks comment on my belt buckle or hat before they even think twice about my pistol. And frankly no matter what you do, wear, or have, there will be someone who doesn't like it. But I have found that it is best to live your life as YOU see fit, and just not be a jerk, and it usually works out for the best all around. It's that simple.... pistol or no pistol.
@@thewhiskeycowboy-official If you ever do get in an unavoidable argument with some troublemaker, aren't you a little concerned that they'll be able to describe your gun and possibly say you pulled it on them in order to get you in hot water?
Walmart has that generic sign everywhere. In NC the sign is irrelevant because NC says that firearm and weapons signs have to be separate from any other sign , be clearly visible and in bold letters.
I carry both open and concealed depending on where I'm going and what I'm doing. On the whole I prefer open carry primarily because I carry full sized handguns which are not very comfortable to conceal IWB. One way I have found of addressing this problem is to carry a full sized 1911 or similar sized pistol in a shoulder holster with a jacket over it. In this way it's comfortable and concealed by the jacket to avoid alarming anyone. Want to switch to open carry? Take off the jacket and let the gun show.
Great video ! I live in an open carry state with CHL available. Personally, I carry concealed when in public 99% of the time. The 1% is when checking the mail or making a quick fuel run etc... Some of my neighbors also carry concealed, I've never seen them carry open. But we talk and share the same views as this video. My main reason for concealed as opposed to open: people can identify my weapon and if they know where I live, they know there is at least 1 item of value in my home. Kind of the same reason I don't have NRA stickers on my vehicles.
Same in NC, anyone of legal age can open carry no question's asked, but if you want to conceal got to get the permit. I've always thought that a little strange. I mean, I have my CCP but wouldn't need one if I opened carried. When open is okay, what the heck's the hang-up about my shirt tail out:) HA!
literally the exact opposite about knowledge of weapon in the home for me. this is probably based on where you're located and the types of people around. i live in a high crime area. concealed in public, open on property. too many junkies around throughout the day and they walk fast past my place because i've done what i can to make it less appealing to criminals, junkies, opportunists. cameras, dogs, lighting help for basic deterrents versus neighbors further down that leave gates open/unlocked and then complain that they have things stolen.
@@geico1975 NC is strange that you may be given a pistol permit to purchase a handgun and have the right to openly carry, but can be denied a conceal carry permit...
@@AroundSun Yes, I never really thought of it all that way but it's true. $10.00 to obtain a pistol permit at 21-years of age, so long as you pass a background check from your Counties Sheriff's Department. Then you can buy a pistol. Once and if you get a concealed carry permit/license, permits in NC, the CCP allows you to purchase other/more pistols, there good for 5-years, after I think 10-years, they start being good for 10-years, not sure about that one 100 percent. Folks who open carry just have to pay the $10.00 fee for another pistol permit every time they want to buy another handgun.
@@AroundSun Crazy story, I always purchased the $10 permit when I wanted to but a pistol before 2019-2020 COVID-19 and all, and I never thought about conceal carry, just never really crossed my mind. I just had my gun in the car when I went somewhere to shoot it, but a friend of mine works for the Sheriff's Dept. and he told me if you ever might want to get your conceal permit now's the time because no one knows what's gonna happen with everything because of COVID-19, so I didn't get my CCP until like Dec. 2019 or Jan. 2020 or something. About a week after I got mine folks started having to wait like 6-months to a year before getting one. Nowadays, fees and prices have doubled seems like, glad I got mine when I did though...
I live in CT. It is definitely one of the more anti gun states. It’s legal to open carry but in my 41 yrs here I’ve seen less than 5 people do it. I would never open carry for the same reason you mentioned last. False claims. There are sick people out there that would love nothing more than to see a gun owner go to jail simply for owning one. Great points and great delivery. Thank you sir.
Yea CT is a funny state. Open carry legal, easy enough to get a CCW permit. I’ve seen maybe 3 people open carry in 20+ years…I would never do so. Too many retention risks and too many uptight people.
I have family down in connecticut. They've told me that Connecticut is catching up with Massachusetts and California regarding how horrendous and horrific the ridiculous amounts of anti-2a laws that are currently in place. I like being in New hampshire. You can carry however you want just so long as you're not prohibited whether you're a resident or not. That includes concealed carry. A lot of people don't believe that you can come to New Hampshire and concealed carry if you're not a resident. Well you can. Same with Vermont and maine. But being prohibited still means prohibited. A lot of people don't seem to understand that.
@@NortheastSurvival911 yea its kinda crazy for sure. The “assault weapons” legislation following sandy hook was certainly just the beginning really. As the nyc elites creep into the state, hastened during covid, it will only get worse.
@@digitalperson108 I can understand people wanting something done regarding shootings. I would love them to do something to reduce it. But we need to get realistic. More legislation on what's already out there isn't going to do anything. It's been over 80 years now and there are literally hundreds of laws on the books throughout the 50 states and it doesn't stop anything. One of the big deals is we need to stop being so fucking lenient with people that commit crimes. One guy murdered his pregnant girlfriend and his two daughters with a firearm and he got life in prison. I don't know about you but somebody like that deserves death in my opinion why should we have to flip the bill to keep that son of a bitch alive for the next 30 or 40 years? But anyway.. like I said there are ways to reduce it it's never going to be completely stopped. But if the politicians would stop worrying about money and actually focus on the problem we could come up with realistic measures to reduce firearm violence. But all they give a fuck about is lining their pockets and being big and powerful. Think about what happens every time there's a tragedy.. they say they're going to apply more legislation and sometimes they do.. but all it does is divide Us in half one side.. usually the Democrats get millions of dollars generated for their cause and nothing changes and then the other side the side that I'm on... The pro 2A side.. we generate millions of dollars for organizations like the NRA and nothing changes. And then wait a little while and repeat. 🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦
Mr. Massad, When I first got my concealed carry license I thought I was going to conduct an experiment at which I did. My state has no restrictions on how many guns I can be in possession of so, what I did is conceal four firearms on me; one on my left ankle and the others around my waist. Then I went to my local mall with just an oversized T-shirt on and walked around and no one noticed. You are right most people are buried in their phones. It proved my assumption as well that a lot of people have no situational awareness. I am constantly looking at the waist band of people and their demeanor. That was the one and only time I have ever done that. Now I only carry one pistol concealed.
I knew Police from school. They knew I was armed. New Officer was clueless. I offered to let him search me in office. He found one. I pulled 3 others out after he said I was clean. Plus a decent size knife. “You don’t stop once you find one” He quit Police work a month later. I notice open carry folks. But watching others. Nobody notices them. But I prefer concealed. Because even if situation happens. Drawing, firing is not my first response.
As a resident of Birmingham Alabama, I can tell you as an over the road trucker, that Alabama is one of the most gun friendly states there is. With that being said, I personally don't open carry, except in certain places. Alabama is an open carry state ( not Constitutional Carry yet) We are soon to be Constitutional Carry on Jan 1st 2023. I will continue to carry concealed. Great video.
I am looking forward to that but I am still getting my CCW renewed simply because I go to Florida sometimes and that’s not going to be a constitutional carry state anytime soon.
I've been a ccw holder since 06. I also live in Alabama. I've seen a few guys open carry but never did it myself. I just prefer concealed but id never knock Joe Bob for doing it.
Excellent video!! I open carry my 1911 every day. Though I am also looking to get a CHL at some point soon. Wanna have both options. My state hasn’t adopted constitutional carry yet. My stance is this: both open and concealed carry have their place. If I’m in most suburban or rural areas, then I’m good with open carry. But If I’m in an urban area, some formal setting, etc. then I’d wanna lean towards concealed carry. I’m a firm believer in open carry’s deterrent advantage. Gary Kleck in his study on defensive firearm encounters discovered that roughly 92% of criminals are deterred at the sight of an armed individual. And there’s much truth in that study based on all my years of observing open carriers and my own personal experiences open carrying. Don’t get me wrong! Not saying that the deterrent effect works on ALL criminals. Whichever carry method you choose is totally up to you as long as you carry responsibly. Choose a gun that suits you best, get a good holster, target practice often, dress appropriately, avoid stupid places and stupid people, and for Gods sake be calm and courteous to everyone around you! I apply all these rules of thumb and 99.99% of all my interactions with people while open carrying have been positive.
Respectfully going to disagree. I have seen some here in AL open carrying who had cheap and non secure holsters, and based on their mannerisms and actions were not truly comfortable carrying in any capacity. Their situational awareness was severely lacking. And in one case saw the firearm actually fall out of holster when they bent over in a Walmart.
I prefer to open carry. I live in Arizona and open carry is more comfortable for me. I have a Beretta M9A3 that I carry in a custom made shoulder holster. I use to carry on the hip but I have had 8 hip surgeries do to being hit with an RPG in Afghanistan. So, I went to the shoulder holster. Most times I have a t-shirt on with the shoulder holster over it, because of it being 90 to 110 degrees. Arizona is a very gun friendly state.
I like my shoulder holster because no matter where I go or what I am doing, I always have my shoulders with me - even if I don't have pants that would support a belt or holster.
Excellent advice, Massad! Open and conceal carrying offer different pros and cons - the 2A community hurts itself when it insists only one is “correct” for an armed citizenry.
There are those in society that do panic at the sight of a firearm. As a responsible gun owner I do carry concealed in order to mitigate their anxiety. Your calm, well thought out explanations are always appreciated.
Lol yea, they panic at the sight of a gun but they will tailgate someone on the interstate going 20 mph over the speed limit in the rain and not bat an eye.
There are people who panic at the sight of black people in hoodies or white peoples in tank tops. I do not cater my Rights to the ‘emotional comfort zone” of those around me. That said, I dress sharp, and carry myself in an alert yet professional manner, so I needn’t fear being thought of as a hoodlum.
I've been OCing since 2011. In that time, I've had 3 negative comments. The vast majority have been positive. I don't buy into the "don't OC, it scares people" argument. The days of gun owners taking a back seat, sitting down and shutting up - is over. We either use our rights or we lose them. I agree with most of the rest of Mas' comments. Especially the comment about "being a representative". Big Thumbs Up!
I don’t have a problem with open carry laws because then if a state has an open carry law and you accidentally show your weapon you don’t get in trouble for it, for example Florida doesn’t have an open carry law now they adjusted the law a little bit, but it used to be that if your shirt came up and somebody saw you carrying you could get in trouble for brandishing, so now they made it where if it’s unintentional you can’t get in trouble for it. If the law allows open carry you can’t get in trouble for it regardless. If I have a choice because I’ve had bad experiences in the past I wouldn’t open carry even if it is the law. I think it’s good to have the option but I prefer concealed carry. Less attention drawn.
@@alfonsobenitez8574 in a national emergency situation of unrest or escalated violence like we saw after George floyd it’s needed, and it could be in the future unfortunately especially if the left try’s some stuff in the near future
Accidentally exposing a firearm isn't brandishing. Lots of people think printing is brandishing a concealed firearm aswell but its not. Whether the carrier has any self awareness or not is the issue here.
Massad Ayoob is quickly becoming one of my favorites. He’s so knowledgeable giving great thought to his comments. He points out things I had never thought about and some things I had but never heard anyone mention.
I open carry, I carry concealed. Most days I barely conceal my gun t-shirt over the owb holster and I go handle my business. I notice open carriers because I look for them. I also notice a lot of them are using shit holsters, nylon universal types that don't hold anything securely or open top holsters with zero retention. I prefer open carry because as a former police officer and uniformed security officer that's the way I carried all the time so for me it's a little more comfortable because that's the way I'm used to carrying. I almost only cover the gun when open carry is not allowed.
im an advocate of both! I choose concealed carry for the same reason I don't have a Glock sticker on the window of my vehicle, that being, unwanted attention! I also enjoy the art of concealment!
You bring up a great point... so many profess to not want to draw attention to themselves or that they have guns, but then drive around with advertisements of it on their vehicles, or wear t-shirts or ball caps with it, and so on. I think most folks don't think things through and say things that support their bias. Simply put though, your actions and movements will draw attention far quicker than if you have a gun on your hip. The same way folks don't realize that the motion to draw a weapon, open or concealed, will draw the SAME attention. It is your movement, not what you have around your body that gets attention most of the time... and more so in an age where folks have cellphones or other items around their belts as pretty normal. Carry. And carry the way it is legal and suits "you" and the factors "you" have and figured into the matter. Let others argue to defend their bias one way or the other. I also (like you) support all legal and responsible carry.. and neither hinges on open or concealed. Cheers.
It depends where you live-both macro and micro. I carry open, even in the classroom as a teacher. The pupils love having a "cowboy" style teacher. When I am in more threatening areas, I keep it out of sight as not to be targeted for theft, murder or both. In the winter, with a coat, I'll even use a shoulder holster to conceal and facilitate easier draw.
@DawnTheFoxUwU I live in Israel. Technically, teachers are forbidden to come to school armed, but many of us flout that law. I've been disregarding it for over 25 years.
Having open carried for years now, I’ve had far more people come up to me and ask me questions about what gun I’m carrying, why I’m carrying, or asking about laws or the 2nd amendment, or just outright thanking me for exercising my Rights to keep the tradition alive. I’ve never once been questioned about my firearm by police, despite many public interactions and passings, and I have not yet been mugged while carrying openly. That said, I first started carrying concealed, when I was prohibited from doing so at work. During this time I was mugged 3 times, and each time my would be attacker fled immediately at the sight of my gun. Thus, I still carry openly as my preferred choice. Most would be attackers are not looking for a fight, but an easy target, and if I am not visibly armed, I look just like any other unarmed, and Defenceless bloke. Any attacker willing to sneak up on you and beat you over the head or shoot you in the back will do so whether you are visibly armed or not. Ambush tactics are your greatest weakness, regardless of how you carry, and everybody who carries, openly or concealed, is already a target for such perps. Carry how you most feel comfortable, and be grateful that more of your fellow people are also carrying.
I was born and raised in an open carry state, now live in one that recently made open carry legal. Massad is absolutely correct, whether carrying open of concealed depends on the time and place. Around home and my local small town where most everyone knows me I often carry open. When I go to larger urban areas I carry concealed for the reasons Massad lists.
I am all for Open Carry in a lever 3 holster. It should not be creating fear in the public, it should be creating relief and a sense of safety in them!
I had just an incident at the dog park once. Summer, warm, I had a light top on and shorts, was covering the pistol w/ my T shirt, not very well. Long story short, I had a dispute about a situation w/ my dog, we traded words, he left. I see him in the distance on the phone, a few minutes later sirens abound, 5 cruisers pull up. I knew what had happened, I kept my hands up and the officer told me the man said I pulled my firearm and threatened him, of course I did not, I was fortunate one of the officers was one I knew, I had seen him multiple times when I was an ER RN at a local trauma center, showed him my CCW and my RSO certificate, Drives license etc. I was allowed to leave and he believed by version of what had happened, no one else at the park saw me draw my weapon. Could have been bad! I carry more concealed now.
Each type of carrying has its own pluses and minuses, you have to evaluate your plans for the day and choose the best option for that day, but no matter what you choose there is no substitute for situational awareness
I open carry on my homestead all the time, because it's mine (videos on my channel if you're into homesteading type content). I likewise have open carried god knows how many times while hunting. The only times I have ever open carried in an urban or other inhabited setting, which I have done many times, I have always carried a second gun, concealed, in case of gun grabs, etc.
The goal is to have a society that is so gun-friendly that people could open carry left and right and no one would bat an eye. I think open carrying respectfully and reasonably is just one of many steps to get there. But of course far more effective is introducing more people to the 2nd Amendment, taking someone shooting, have civil discussions on gun debates, and educate people on why our right to bear arms is essential. I believe we are winning this fight, because more and more people are buying guns for the first time and more people realizing that they are the ones responsible for our own protection and their family, not the police 10 minutes away.
Great points sir, I spent 22 years in the military and like you I study the folks around me I sometimes open carry depending on the situation, I carry the 1911A1 or the M9 with the Glock 26 as a back up, living in Texas I rarely see any open carry folks, I have my license to carry and also insurance
The Active Self Protection channel on YT has several videos of open-carriers getting their weapons snatched when caught by surprise. This should be the worst nightmare of anyone carrying a firearm. To anyone who insists on openly carrying in public, you must, must, MUST be aware of your surroundings at all times. Just my 2 cents.
I Open Carried for years until ID passed Constitutional Carry and I agree 100% that if you are going that route, your Situational Awareness needs to be just One Click Shy of Active Paranoia... And TRAIN against the possibility of someone making a Grab for your Weapon...
Millions openly carry firearms. The odds of that (open-carried gun snatched) happening are extremely low. A few videos of isolated incidents (lightning striking) here or there don't change that reality.
@@anraegodley-cooper6321 .. Some must live in some mighty strange neighborhoods. I've carried firearms off and on for decades and nobody has ever tried to take one. Never even heard of it happening. I suppose it could (anything is possible), but the odds of it seem extremely low. Most likely have a far greater chance of shooting themselves.
I see and have used the advantages of both. Seeing my open carry in Las Vegas stopped at least 1 robbery attempt. I know cause my wife heard 1 of the 3 dudes say " not them, he's got a gun" before making a bee line away from us. I'm now back in constitutional carry Maine and happy as a lark. My advice, if you open carry, have a hefty retention device.
I have open carried in Colorado because my Virginia permit was not recognized. It was not my preferred method but it was the only method available to me. My experience was positive and even got a thumbs up from a police officer. I can attest that most people won't notice. A middle aged woman came up to me and asked if I would sign an anti-fracking petition and she did not notice the 1911 and two spare magazines on my hip. In general, the only time I open carry is when I am in the field. That long gun is a dead giveaway that I am armed so why bother concealing the pistol. I always carry in a level III retention holster when I do open carry. Not so fast with the "secret weapon" argument. How many people have gotten into a DGU situation because the assailant assumed a person was unarmed because he did not see the weapon? We aren't dealing with rocket scientists. Each method has its risks.
I used to open carry in Ohio, prior to there even being a CCW law. Nobody ever said a thing, they probably assumed I was an LEO as I was, at the time, clean cut and well dressed. As soon as I could carry concealed, I did. Don't like to stick out.
@Atriya Wadhwani Anti-Fracking zealots are usually anti-gun. She didn't noticed. I have open carried in Northern Virginia where you don't see it very often and nobody noticed.
Mas is an engaging, articulate proponent of all things sensible about firearms. An amazing wealth of knowledge and background, and if we gun owners ever needed an eloquent, irrefutable spokesman in Congressional testimony, in honest debate, in pretty much any realistic forum, Ayoob would be my first choice. Yes, there are others as capable, and frankly, Johnny, we need them all as voices against the irrational, hair-tearing radical Left anti-gun factions. It really is a matter of the rational versus emotional, an understanding of our Constitutional rights versus fabricated, fear-mongering dogma coming from the Left.
I was open carrying the other day (was concealed, day started off rainy and turned to sun, jacket off) grabbing wine. A cop gets behind me in the checkout line and we start talking 07 Napa and how good the 21 Napa will be after a 10 year hold. I told him to stay safe, he said thanks... we went on our ways.
Yep, the Grey Man. That’s why I don’t even workout, I don’t want to look like a buff military vet with a concealed firearm. 😉 Nobody is expecting Mr. Dad Bod to be armed. 😂
I agree but I'm not sure it really matters. Like Mas said everyone is buried in their cell phones and totally impervious to anything around them. Maybe a criminal about to do a crime but again there are so many people wearing a plethora of shirts now days I'm not sure they will take the time to read what a shirt/hat really says.
@@elijahparker7655 just bought one. Have had a 44 mag got 30 years and love hunting with it but the barrel is a little to long so I got a 357. I just got to practice more. My 9 mm even has a Lazer scope but just haven't got the hang of it. Don't know why I bought it but my 44 is my baby and hoping the 357 is as good
@@richardhessert7862 I believe you'll be satisfied. Recoil similar to a hot 9mm round, with just enough power to get there fast, but still pack a punch. (My rounds fire at approximately 1,310fps and deliver 430ft-lbs into the target.)
I lived in an open carry state before and excepted when working as a uniformed police officer I never open carried. Now in FL it is illegal but wish it was legal because it is hot and if you gun shows and someone calls police you have a problem if visible. So I am for open carry for those who wish to do so.
Had a debate with a cop at a Denny's by the Miami airport about 30 years ago. I was sitting at the counter and had mine on my hip in a Harley "Wild West" pouch which VAGUELY resembled an old-style flap holster, except for the fact that the pistol COMPLETELY disappeared into it under a double-snap flap closure. Had to explain to him what "concealed from ordinary sight" meant. And it's the WEAPON that has to be concealed from ordinary sight, not the pouch, holster, purse, or whatever you're carrying it in (think: fanny-pack). I told him you have NO WAY of KNOWING what is in that pouch! There were actually two cops that came in together for dinner; the other one didn't give a crap... he just wanted to eat : )
I am a CCW supporter. It makes little sense to me to advertise one’s status. If you are a uniformed peace officer or military policeman, of course open carry makes sense. Otherwise, do as you think best within the law.
What makes them different to you? Let me assume like you probably do. They are well trained? They are more trained? They have more sense of right and wrong? I disagree with this mentality whole-heartedly. It's a well-known fact in the 2A community that many cops (and probably even more soldiers) never even held a gun before they joined. Who would you feel more safe around? Your dad that never served and isn't a cop, but has handled guns for 60 of his 70 years on this planet, or your brother in law that just left basic or the academy, never having touched a gun in his first 25 years of life? I'll take the first guy any day of the week. No one cares that cops open carry, yet so many people in the 2A community care if we do. 🙄
@@MrFixItGa The difference is that everyone knows uniformed military or police are carrying a weapon so concealing it makes no sense. A regular citizen is usually not carrying so having a weapon concealed gives you an advantage in surprise.
@@daviddacactus Concealing it would slow down anyone who sought to disarm them... just as it would when a "civilian" is carrying. I wouldn't want to be open-carrying ANYWHERE I had to squeeze through a crowd... whether I was a cop or not!
As stated in this video environment dictates where I open carry or conceal carry. For me open carry equates to waving the American Flag and has a distinct purpose. I conceal carry most of the time.
You are gem of logical, practical expertise and wisdom on this subject, in addition having real historical examples of what you talk adbout. I'm so glad I came across your channel Mr. Wilson
I enjoy your friendly, down home, videos. You are always polite and considerate of your audience. You offer what works for you and don't try to force your views on anyone. There are times it is hard to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys. I enjoy watching you be you. Keep on keepin' on.
I'm so glad you didn't bash open carry like most others. I opened carry for several years before getting my ccw, which I still do open carry to this day. I'm on the side of just carry a gun. To be fair, if a criminal wanted to steal your gun or just shoot you on site, he would do it regardless if you had a pistol on your hip or not. Just use your head out there and make it home safe.
Correct. But sadly you see so many not think things though, just so they can convince themselves that they are carrying the "best" and "right" way. It's the same type of things we see with Chevy vs Ford or 9mm vs 45. Most of the arguments are at best only partially true (again, at best), and in the end they only effect the person making them. I have never run into the potential horror stories often touted concerning open carry, and I will leave it at that. I support legal and responsible carry.... and none of that (unless not legal in the State) hinges on whether the pistol is open or concealed. We need to stop trying to make divisions among law abiding citizens and those who exercise their Constitutionally protected Rights. Sadly though.... many don't understand that, instead they want to help the anti-gun folks demonize a segment of us, or the gun itself. They really need to stop doing that. It isn't open carry that hurts us, it is THAT that does. Cheers.
I don’t open carry but I also don’t get obsessed with printing. If I am OWB I will just pull my t-shirt over it going into a store or similar. I also live in an open carry state. Unfortunately alot of the opposed picture open carry as that one individual in a cut off shirt, jean shorts, and a velcro holster flopped over the tactical muffin top.
.....to be fair, those are almost all of the open carriers that I see. Some crap holster flopping around barely attached to their pocket or something stupid like that.
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. I don't want to draw attention to myself, so I don't want ANYONE to see that I'm carrying a gun out in public.
Good arguments. Me personally I prefer to open carry for political reasons. The more people are exposed to seeing guns the less frightening is. Also on the same note: " if you don't use it you lose it ". I'm talking about 2nd amendment.
Massad Ayoob, you are truly a gift from above with youre insight. New Hampshire definitely had the greatest state trooper in history on their side. I only wish you would have served in my home state growing up.
Shall not be infringed - I believe in comfortable carry, I put a gun on comfortably. If an outer garment covers it fine, if it is open because of the weather that is fine too. If we had Liberty this would not be an issue.
A couple of years ago I did an experiment. I open carried to the office every day for a week. The next Monday I asked the people I work with if they noticed anything different about me the previous week. Exactly one person said that I’d carried a gun on my hip the previous week. So now I still usually carry concealed but if I take off the suit coat while carrying I don’t worry too much about it. I know most people won’t know anyway.
Correct! More people notice and comment about my hat or belt buckle than do my pistol. If you live your life trying to not offend ANYONE, or worried about what EVERYONE might think, you stop living your life as a free person. Simply put most people don't care, or notice the things we might think they do. Like the saying goes, "you would be surprised at how little anyone actually thinks about you". Too many people live in a fantasy.
AS always Massad delivers excellent, sounds advice. I personally NEVER open carry, for multiple reasons...but his point at the 6:47 mark is my main reason. If a nutjob walks in intent on killing people, and sees your weapon, you just became his prime target. Just because you CAN do something, doesn't mean you SHOULD.
I open carry when I’m at work and running errands pertaining to work. I wear a big smile too! Always watch my back no matter what the situation. I’ve never heard a story about someone getting disarmed but feel that 30 is a very, very low number of said incidents.
years ago. I was managing a convenience store which was right next door literally from Liberty firearms and gun store and instruction facility. The folks at Liberty came in open carry and I loved it.
Well spoken Sir! Many years ago, about 1985 if memory serves, a man walked into a Dunkin Donuts in Doraville, GA with the intent of killing his wife, a waitress there, he did exactly that. At the other end of the counter a Fireman was having a cup, saw the altercation and stood up, he wasn’t armed, but was in uniform and was wearing his badge, he was perceived as a threat, shot, and killed by the assailant. I’ve always thought that if the assailant sees a firearm, he will attack them first, once again as the perceived threat. Them NOT thinking you are a threat may very well save your life. The assailant may shoot you anyway, but if he sees a firearm you can almost guarantee you will be the first target.
You're making too many assumptions in order to confirm your own bias. The man was shot because he forcefully interjected himself into the situation. That much is fact. It's a large assumption that it was because he had a uniform and a badge on. On even a cursory analysis, your argument falls on its face. The suspect went into the facility to murder his wife but didn't notice a uniformed first responder (who happened to be unarmed) was sitting there until they jumped up and interjected themselves. You then made the assumption that the fireman was shot because of his uniform and the thought that he may have been armed. By your own detail of the story though, it appears the suspect went into the building and didn't even notice the first responder sitting there at all and probably didn't care. This means that it could have been a random open carrying citizen there and he still wouldn't have cared but that open carrier probably would have interjected potentially with a shot instead of harsh words before finally being acknowledged.
@@dannyfowler7055 By your own statement, the shooter didn't even recognize or know that the fireman existed or was there. He didn't shoot said fireman until the fireman stood up and presented himself. Before this, the shooter was completely oblivious to the fireman and his uniform. The fireman became an obstacle and a direct witness to the murder and that's probably why he shot him. It's a far more logical assumption to make than the guy panicked when seeing a badge as an actual police officer probably would have immediately shot the man instead of just yelling at him. In this case, the open carrier would also have been completely overlooked as this guy initially missed an entire uniformed person sitting there or didn't care. This isn't a story of the evils of open carry, but of bad luck/misfortune. The perceived threat was of someone getting in his way and also being a witness to the crime, not necessarily being someone in uniform who strangely didn't ventilate him the moment he shot the waitress or attempted to shoot the waitress. If some other random guy were to also have interjected there without the uniform, they would have most likely met the same fate. The man was on a mission to kill someone else in public. He didn't care that there'd potentially be law enforcement, just that he had a goal and if he's willing to brutally murder his wife in a restaurant, he's going to probably not have any scruples getting rid of whoever stands in his way.
I do notice, here in Texas it's common practice. I worry about some of our elders I think they could be overtaken by someone who wants to do them harm. But for the most part it makes me feel safer knowing that my neighbors are armed and carrying 👍💯🇺🇸 I sometimes carry on my own property as someone else said. Those 4 legged critters are stealthy 😳
Thanks Mas! I am glad to see you are president of the second amendment foundation! Since I am an adherent to your tactics and training since the early 90's, I don't always carry like I used to. I would pick the right mode/holster more compact gun for the events and tasks I was doing. Situational awareness why you would stay in a potentially dangerous situation comes to mind.
Open carry has helped me. A Kevin was upset at me in a parking lot. Came walking up to me shouting as I was getting out of the truck. Kept getting closer shouting and soon as I closed my door his eyes caught my gun on my hip and he stopped where he was. Stopped yelling and went back to his miserable life. I do see where there are also cases where you want to remain grey.
An instructor of mine told me to watch one of you videos and I enjoyed and leard from it. As for the open or concealed carry issue, I for the most part conceal carry.
Thank you Mas for your straightforward eloquent and easy to understand message about open carry versus concealed. We will share your message. It is disturbing to see certain political candidates lately try to win elections by suddenly stumping for open carry, in an attempt to steal their more worthy opponents’ well earned thunder, the Georgian candidates who truly support our second amendment rights.
My father in law is against open carry and his reason is pretty sound. To quote him “if the idea of carrying is to protect you and your loved ones hen concealed carry is the only option. As an example, of, God forbid, you find yourself in an situation with an active shooter, and you are open carrying, who is the first person the threat is going to notice? With everything going on in the world around the arguments around the validity of the right to carry, you don’t need to draw extra attention to yourself.”
The threat is not going to notice an open carrier if that carrier is not in their line of sight when they enter the space. Someone blasting through the door in Wal Mart when an open carrier is back in the dog food section will not have line of sight of the carrier. They will be no more of a target if out of line of sight and will have every ability as a concealed carrier to stop the threat.
What I don't understand is why someone with a CHL can conceal their handgun, but not a fixed-blade knife, at least in the jurisdictions with which I am familiar.
I prefer ccw but due to my spare tire, it is very uncomfortable. I open carry to an extent but I wear long T-shirts to help with concealment. My goal is self and family protection not to intimidate anyone.
you my friend are such a joy to listen to and your respect for the public is admired by me .I has a parent that was murdered so Your words were very important to me. With that being said, I have open carried But mostly concealed Carry.Thankyou so much for having these talks.
People just do not consider RURAL settings, and NATURE settings when coming down hard against open carry. We all tend to have a very myopic view of things. Which is unfortunate.
Do you know anyone who conceals in a nature setting? Maybe they exist…I don’t know… When you open carry, you have the ability to carry bigger guns, carry more of them, and carry them comfortably. Don’t know of anyone who is concerned about the concealment trade-off in a nature setting. Predators tend to surprise you and if you need to clear garment or open your bag, then you’re already toast… Not sure if it’s worthy of comparison for the point of this video. This is about protection from other people, not animals or targets…
Thank you, thoughtfull, reasoned, you asked for our "Views" Mine is simply that you carefully and accurately summed up the situation and discussed the various necessary considerations. Based on a lifetime in the political arena defending various "Rights" you touch on two critical areas Public perception and Emotional misperception "With Rights comes a respoibility "
My opinion is this.. it depends on the environment that your going to be in. My self I carry concealed in a holster rig , when shopping ,dining. But most places I go to here( I live in Texas) locally never carry a gun, my wife does and she carries her in a purse. We don't have trouble in the country now being said when we go into Blue Cities we are locked and cocked.open carry when I'm working on the ranch at times. Open carry for a novice does not know how easy it is for a person following you are in a check out can grab it out of your holster pretty quick.. not good. That's my take.Concealed carry in these environments. THANKS
Same here. In Texas, live on a ranch. Same for me. At the ranch or going to town to get feed or supplies, I open carry. If we go to San Antonio, conceal carry. I try to adapt to my surroundings.
Great topic. When my state approved handgun open carry I did open carry a couple times. I used a level 2 retention holster and it went fine. In the end I conceal carry 99% of the time.
"We do not have a right to alarm the public" I suspect that will be the most controversial part of this video but it needed to be said. Even if that panic is objectively unreasonable, open carriers do nobody any favors by causing a panic when they trot around their AR15s in their local walmart.
A person can not be charged for a crime of causing a panic when they have the legal right to open carry. PD get sued every single year trying to pull that shit.
@@zack9912000 And your point? We're not talking about legal consequences. We're talking about social and societal. Scaring people does nothing to advance the cause of 2nd amendment support.
@@matthewblumenthal804 You can not live your life being concerned about everybody's fears...it is simply unrealistic. If I run up to the corner store or gas station with a gun on my hip, I'm not creating a panic or trying to cause fear in anybody...I'm living my life. The extreme example of someone going to Walmart with an AR slung across their back is not a reasonable example. Sure some "advocates" do it. It doesn't bother me. I don't do such things but, it isn't illegal where I live. How often do you or others routinely break traffic laws ? Speeding, not coming to a complete stop, following too closely, not signaling a lane change. Nobody seems concerned about me as a truck driver when, any number of routinely broken traffic laws can result in death. Why are the vast majority of citizens not concerned about me ? I am simply responsible for removing my self from the situation. Do you see what I'm getting at ? Driving is only a privilege, not a constitutionally enumerated right.
@@zack9912000 no but why would you want to make a spectacle of yourself? I don't want to draw any unnecessary attention to me or my wife when we are out together, usually on a date night. Even if I am by myself at the farm store getting chicken feed or tractor parts, I conceal carry. If no one sees it then no one can complain.
Sound advice as always. “If you open carry you’ll be shot first / disarmed / arrested” has become yet another Internet Legend. There is a time and place where OC is safe and a time and place where it isn’t.
We want to hear from you too! What do you think? Open Carry or Concealed Carry?
Comfortable carry
I have absolutely no problem with open carry as a law, I myself prefer to carry Concealed, that doesn’t mean I’m gonna cut try and infringe on restrict anybody else to carry if they want to carry open,
I prefer concealed carry: open carry draws attention that I don’t want. That being said, to each his own. I would hope if you choose to open carry you use a holster with some degree of retention.
I have no problems seeing open carry but it’s concealed carry for the win. Stealth matters.
Mr. Ayoob, I am nobody judge people or the Law, but I don't believe in open carry for one reason only, if you are open carrying and your out shopping lets say, and somebody is looking to rob this establishment if they are smart they reconnoiter this store if they see your open carry you will be the first target, take out the first threat, please correct me with your thoughts Sir.
Open carry for the Woods.
Concealed carry for the Hoods.
How do conceal a rifle?🙃
@@Firstamongstslowbois 😂😂😂
That is fabulous.
Good philosophy M E, I like it.
👍👍
With the high amount of people unable to mind their own business, in today's world. I prefer concealed carry. 👍
NAILED IT
I open carry as it is legal in my state. Freemen don't explain themselves or apologize for it. I've never been a victim. My local law enforcement doesn't care that I'm openly armed so no one else should either. I get looks but no one says anything about it.
@@HolmWrecker
Apologize now then
Exactly! Why would you give up your surprise advantage? If I was a bad guy, my first target would be the guy I knew had a firearm. Goodnight.
@@HolmWrecker 1q
I don't wanna advertise that I'm carrying a firearm. For ME personally, I would NOT open carry!!!
But I WILL NOT judge anybody that does.
I agreed with you.
I doubt that’s actually true, in a setting like a mountain man rendezvous where just about everyone has a gun it’s much easier to open carry without a second thought as it is the norm in that situation instead of drawing attention to you.
Yes I understand the statement you made, just pointing out absolutes are based on sets of assumptions that’s are rarely as absolute as assumed when the statement is made. I would never open carry in a major city in a public area unless it’s in a convention or something where It wouldn’t be out of place, but out in rural communities it’s not an issue. I’ve worn my 44 in a quick draw to town and the only person that’s ever said a word about it was an elderly lady who asked about it because it reminded her of the 357 she used to carry when she was younger. No I don’t normally open carry to town because I don’t like to advertise unnecessarily, but I live in bear country so I do frequently open carry when working out in the woods and things happen that send me to town so instead of running into the house and swapping holsters and firearms i just head to town and it is what it is.
I would add to your comment by saying that if someone is going to carry open at least have a good holster and belt. Carry your firearm in a professional manner instead of sloppily or haphazardly. I see some guys in my town wearing cargo shorts with a holster meant for a belt hanging off the side of one of their pockets, it's unnerving and makes me cringe. If the guy tripped and fell his gun would simply fall out on the ground and that is very irresponsible.
@@jaydunbar7538 Do you carry for protection from humans or wildlife?
If you are on your own property, like a ranch, open carry is ideal. But when you are out in public, the negatives outweigh the positives, especially in a city.
@@jaydunbar7538 Yeah. I see your point. I do live in the CITY. So open carry is dangerous. Out in the woods and country. Open carry is normal!!!!!
I'm a cop in Arizona in a medium sized city immediately adjacent to Phoenix. I'd say the populus borders urban and suburban, but the city I work in is large enough that it has rural areas and farms as well. I see people open carrying pretty frequently in all parts of my jurisdiction and it does not bother me in the least bit.
I have however observed people with zero situational awareness doing it, in crappy holsters, and sometimes no holster at all just shoved in a pocket or belt with the grip sticking out. The one that worries me is open carriers playing around on their phones, but fortunately I have never had to respond to an incident of a lawfully armed citizen being disarmed.
I would like to say "male Karens" as Massad said are absolutely a real thing. I have unfortunately responded to incidents where people have lied about the actions of open carriers and even some criminals who have had guns pulled on them who then tried to call us in retaliation on the concealed carrier. That being said I have never arrested someone because they pointed their finger and said "He/She did X" that does not develop probable cause. What is nice about being a police officer in the digital age is damn near every business, intersection, and many residences have cameras. Cameras don't lie.
Every instance I have dealt with of a male Karen lying about a lawfully armed citizen was exonerated on the spot by finding local cameras (and witnesses) and watching footage, and even the couple rare instances of the criminal calling about having had a gun pulled on them (both were attempted carjackings). Thankfully Arizona also criminalizes false reporting to law enforcement and I gladly have and will continue to make those arrests.
Great video.
Niiiice, Blessings and love to you and your family.
You sound like a great cop!
False reports is why I won’t have any gun-related stickers on my truck, and another reason is its an advertisement to car burglars.
@@LuckyCharms777 yeah that's a good idea about not having stickers or whatever even more so now with all this red flag law bs
Awesome
I have been carrying concealed for 43 years. I would never carry open unless I was on my own farm. The element of surprise far exceeds for me the open carry. I have walked into a restaurant with a guy carrying open with his back to the door. I or anyone else could have easily disarmed him and shot him with his own pistol. I also firmly believe that this is the United States and each person has the right to choose what they want to do.
That's how I see it also. The people that say "they can't disarm me because I will feel them trying and stop them" don't understand that if someone is brave enough to take your gun they're brave enough to hit you in the back of the head and disarm you? Criminals follow the path of least resistance and wrestling over a gun isn't their way of getting guns. They'll simply knock you out and then take your gun.
I agreed with you. Escaped from a communist country, served in their military in the war in Angola, lost an arm. I thank God for the USA, but I also see that this wonderful nation have been taken over by the left wing Democrats. We see it in the public schools and Universities. They are all controlled by the Marxists Socialist who want to take our freedom. With this idiot J B as commander in shit, open borders with Mexico and Canada, we must be prepared for the worst. I am 68 y o. Ready to do whatever it takes. This is the only bastion of freedom in the world.
The one addendum I would add is a level 3 retention holster. It's what most police use
There is nothing worse than providing a criminal your weapon to use against you. I agree 100%
@@johna2008 The ability to use a good retention holster is part of why I most often carry OWB. There's no good IWB retention holsters.
Iam a retired First Seargent with the NCSHP. I strongly support ccw. In my opinion open carry has so many cons. One of my dt instructors told my class " It's not your gun you just bring it to the fight. It belongs to last person who controls it" That was forty years ago and still true today. I prefer to go unnoticed.
If your in a place where your threat has 4 legs not 2 I don’t see any problem with open carry. For example if hiking camping fishing or hunting.
@Chuck McMahan. Thank you for your service to my home state and I agree with you fully. Former NCDOC Officer.
@@MrJimmy-fl2bn Agreed.
I agree
And that's why the only time I ever open carry is at a range or when I'm out hunting. Day to day I always concealed carry I don't fumble with or adjust the pistol either but I make sure it stays covered. Typically I'm wearing an owb holster but I have a button up colored long sleeve dress shirt that I leave unbuttoned. Quick easy access to the firearm. My justification for never open carrying in public on a day-to-day basis is simple.. it's unwanted attention. Nobody needs to know that you have a firearm it's not their damn business. And last but not least hypothetically let's say someone's going to do something stupid and they're also carrying a firearm and they see that you're carrying one.. there's a damn good chance that you're there first target. Now they have more than one gun. I just feel that concealed is the best way to go always.
The last point is actually a very real one. I was walking back to my car one night at about 10:00 p.m. when a cop rolled up on me with his lights on. I stopped and kept my hands visible as he got out of the car and approached me. He told me he had received a call that there was a man walking on that street with a gun and asked me if i had a carry permit since my gun was clearly visible in an OWB holster. I informed him I did have a permit and showed it to him. He politely said goodnight and sent me on my way. However, this tells me that someone called the police on me, simply because they saw me with a gun clearly visible on my person with no further information.
I've been "open carrying" since the mid 90's, from a shoulder holster 1911, to a 45 single shot derringer, on my belt, I've had no comments in all those years, except thanks, from the occasional person who notices. I'm a retired Marine, easily identified as such, and living in rural N.C., generally respected. I've stopped two robberies simply by walking into the store with a 1911, and being seen, and the would be thief choosing to leave. I've been carrying since about 69, when my father and I were robbed at gunpoint. I believe always carrying openly informs the community, and I avidly enjoy the conversation with anyone with concerns. I grew up in Chicago, with no intent to carry until we were robbed, and mere possession of a gun has ended several incidents.
The thing about Massad is he is always calm, clear and honest in his assessments. I live in an open carry state and I do carry open on occasion. My decision is made exactly like what was mentioned, where am I going and what will I be doing. I also believe that since it is legal here it's good for the general public to see someone legally carrying and being a good citizen, hold the door for others, smile, be polite. If we don't exercise our rights we will lose them.
I live in a constitutional carry state. I have a CCW so that I can travel to other states and still carry. The only time I open carry is in my home or on my property. Where I am more worried about four legged threats than two legged. Just because I can, does not mean I should. Never give a criminal an even break. Let it be a surprise.
Right on sir my thoughts as well
Dear old granny might not be as helpless as she appears.
So do you often practice drawing from concealed then? Or when you go to the range to just use the bench or have you ever practiced engaging from the draw? If not your as big as liability as you think open carriers are. More likely more so as you're more likely to get those around you killed attempting to draw after a crime is committed.
@@maddogs1989 Geeze. A TH-cam toughie. My training methods and strategies are none of your business. I have a range on my property. I never shoot off a bench because I haven't built one. I'll probably do so for rifle sighting at some point, but that's not the subject of this video. What do you do that makes you such an authority pray tell? Besides talking tough that is.
Same here
Situational awareness is the first step to avoiding having to ever pull your weapon. Know who is around you and what they are doing . Constantly link around .
Yes absolutely one of the many things the armed forces pushes constantly situational awareness know your surroundings have an out have a plan and scan
The Walmart here in Maine has an appliqué door decal welcoming customers with "Gun Owners: Kindly refrain from openly displaying your firearm while shopping". Because it is a Constitutional Carry State they know their customers are carrying so rather than say no firearms allowed they ask to not openly display them, hide them from public view while shopping.
In which case if I'm able I'll conceal it. I have no problem with that attitude.
And I would simply carry as I am that day. I don't carry to upset others, or to HIDE the fact i am carrying from others. I carry. Sometimes it is seen, other times it is not. It is not about me being an ass, but about not allowing OTHERS to dictate my exercise of Constitutionally protected Rights, in ways that are legal. And I don't understand how so many others (not saying you are one of them) don't understand this.
Target also had an anti-gun policy, and I shopped there as well... not a single employee or customer appeared to care one bit that I was carrying. I am a friendly guy. I don't act aggressive or bother others. I have on my belt two knives, a cellphone in case, and my pistol. Most folks comment on my belt buckle or hat before they even think twice about my pistol. And frankly no matter what you do, wear, or have, there will be someone who doesn't like it. But I have found that it is best to live your life as YOU see fit, and just not be a jerk, and it usually works out for the best all around. It's that simple.... pistol or no pistol.
@@thewhiskeycowboy-official That's it right there, agreed.
@@thewhiskeycowboy-official If you ever do get in an unavoidable argument with some troublemaker, aren't you a little concerned that they'll be able to describe your gun and possibly say you pulled it on them in order to get you in hot water?
Walmart has that generic sign everywhere. In NC the sign is irrelevant because NC says that firearm and weapons signs have to be separate from any other sign , be clearly visible and in bold letters.
I carry both open and concealed depending on where I'm going and what I'm doing. On the whole I prefer open carry primarily because I carry full sized handguns which are not very comfortable to conceal IWB. One way I have found of addressing this problem is to carry a full sized 1911 or similar sized pistol in a shoulder holster with a jacket over it. In this way it's comfortable and concealed by the jacket to avoid alarming anyone. Want to switch to open carry? Take off the jacket and let the gun show.
Great video ! I live in an open carry state with CHL available. Personally, I carry concealed when in public 99% of the time. The 1% is when checking the mail or making a quick fuel run etc... Some of my neighbors also carry concealed, I've never seen them carry open. But we talk and share the same views as this video. My main reason for concealed as opposed to open: people can identify my weapon and if they know where I live, they know there is at least 1 item of value in my home. Kind of the same reason I don't have NRA stickers on my vehicles.
Same in NC, anyone of legal age can open carry no question's asked, but if you want to conceal got to get the permit. I've always thought that a little strange. I mean, I have my CCP but wouldn't need one if I opened carried. When open is okay, what the heck's the hang-up about my shirt tail out:) HA!
literally the exact opposite about knowledge of weapon in the home for me. this is probably based on where you're located and the types of people around. i live in a high crime area. concealed in public, open on property. too many junkies around throughout the day and they walk fast past my place because i've done what i can to make it less appealing to criminals, junkies, opportunists. cameras, dogs, lighting help for basic deterrents versus neighbors further down that leave gates open/unlocked and then complain that they have things stolen.
@@geico1975 NC is strange that you may be given a pistol permit to purchase a handgun and have the right to openly carry, but can be denied a conceal carry permit...
@@AroundSun
Yes, I never really thought of it all that way but it's true. $10.00 to obtain a pistol permit at 21-years of age, so long as you pass a background check from your Counties Sheriff's Department. Then you can buy a pistol. Once and if you get a concealed carry permit/license, permits in NC, the CCP allows you to purchase other/more pistols, there good for 5-years, after I think 10-years, they start being good for 10-years, not sure about that one 100 percent. Folks who open carry just have to pay the $10.00 fee for another pistol permit every time they want to buy another handgun.
@@AroundSun
Crazy story, I always purchased the $10 permit when I wanted to but a pistol before 2019-2020 COVID-19 and all, and I never thought about conceal carry, just never really crossed my mind. I just had my gun in the car when I went somewhere to shoot it, but a friend of mine works for the Sheriff's Dept. and he told me if you ever might want to get your conceal permit now's the time because no one knows what's gonna happen with everything because of COVID-19, so I didn't get my CCP until like Dec. 2019 or Jan. 2020 or something. About a week after I got mine folks started having to wait like 6-months to a year before getting one. Nowadays, fees and prices have doubled seems like, glad I got mine when I did though...
Massad you are the most interesting, well-informed firearms educator I've ever heard. Thank you. Keep your videos coming I love them.
I live in CT. It is definitely one of the more anti gun states. It’s legal to open carry but in my 41 yrs here I’ve seen less than 5 people do it. I would never open carry for the same reason you mentioned last. False claims. There are sick people out there that would love nothing more than to see a gun owner go to jail simply for owning one. Great points and great delivery. Thank you sir.
Yea CT is a funny state. Open carry legal, easy enough to get a CCW permit. I’ve seen maybe 3 people open carry in 20+ years…I would never do so.
Too many retention risks and too many uptight people.
Born and raised in Bridgeport Ct, NAILED IT.
I have family down in connecticut. They've told me that Connecticut is catching up with Massachusetts and California regarding how horrendous and horrific the ridiculous amounts of anti-2a laws that are currently in place. I like being in New hampshire. You can carry however you want just so long as you're not prohibited whether you're a resident or not. That includes concealed carry. A lot of people don't believe that you can come to New Hampshire and concealed carry if you're not a resident. Well you can. Same with Vermont and maine. But being prohibited still means prohibited. A lot of people don't seem to understand that.
@@NortheastSurvival911 yea its kinda crazy for sure. The “assault weapons” legislation following sandy hook was certainly just the beginning really.
As the nyc elites creep into the state, hastened during covid, it will only get worse.
@@digitalperson108 I can understand people wanting something done regarding shootings. I would love them to do something to reduce it. But we need to get realistic. More legislation on what's already out there isn't going to do anything. It's been over 80 years now and there are literally hundreds of laws on the books throughout the 50 states and it doesn't stop anything. One of the big deals is we need to stop being so fucking lenient with people that commit crimes. One guy murdered his pregnant girlfriend and his two daughters with a firearm and he got life in prison. I don't know about you but somebody like that deserves death in my opinion why should we have to flip the bill to keep that son of a bitch alive for the next 30 or 40 years? But anyway.. like I said there are ways to reduce it it's never going to be completely stopped. But if the politicians would stop worrying about money and actually focus on the problem we could come up with realistic measures to reduce firearm violence. But all they give a fuck about is lining their pockets and being big and powerful. Think about what happens every time there's a tragedy.. they say they're going to apply more legislation and sometimes they do.. but all it does is divide Us in half one side.. usually the Democrats get millions of dollars generated for their cause and nothing changes and then the other side the side that I'm on... The pro 2A side.. we generate millions of dollars for organizations like the NRA and nothing changes. And then wait a little while and repeat. 🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦
Mr. Massad,
When I first got my concealed carry license I thought I was going to conduct an experiment at which I did. My state has no restrictions on how many guns I can be in possession of so, what I did is conceal four firearms on me; one on my left ankle and the others around my waist. Then I went to my local mall with just an oversized T-shirt on and walked around and no one noticed. You are right most people are buried in their phones. It proved my assumption as well that a lot of people have no situational awareness. I am constantly looking at the waist band of people and their demeanor.
That was the one and only time I have ever done that. Now I only carry one pistol concealed.
You wear a belt and suspenders too ?
I knew Police from school. They knew I was armed. New Officer was clueless. I offered to let him search me in office. He found one. I pulled 3 others out after he said I was clean. Plus a decent size knife. “You don’t stop once you find one”
He quit Police work a month later. I notice open carry folks. But watching others. Nobody notices them. But I prefer concealed. Because even if situation happens. Drawing, firing is not my first response.
As a resident of Birmingham Alabama, I can tell you as an over the road trucker, that Alabama is one of the most gun friendly states there is. With that being said, I personally don't open carry, except in certain places. Alabama is an open carry state ( not Constitutional Carry yet) We are soon to be Constitutional Carry on Jan 1st 2023. I will continue to carry concealed. Great video.
I am looking forward to that but I am still getting my CCW renewed simply because I go to Florida sometimes and that’s not going to be a constitutional carry state anytime soon.
I've been a ccw holder since 06. I also live in Alabama. I've seen a few guys open carry but never did it myself. I just prefer concealed but id never knock Joe Bob for doing it.
Excellent video!! I open carry my 1911 every day. Though I am also looking to get a CHL at some point soon. Wanna have both options. My state hasn’t adopted constitutional carry yet.
My stance is this: both open and concealed carry have their place. If I’m in most suburban or rural areas, then I’m good with open carry. But If I’m in an urban area, some formal setting, etc. then I’d wanna lean towards concealed carry.
I’m a firm believer in open carry’s deterrent advantage. Gary Kleck in his study on defensive firearm encounters discovered that roughly 92% of criminals are deterred at the sight of an armed individual. And there’s much truth in that study based on all my years of observing open carriers and my own personal experiences open carrying. Don’t get me wrong! Not saying that the deterrent effect works on ALL criminals.
Whichever carry method you choose is totally up to you as long as you carry responsibly. Choose a gun that suits you best, get a good holster, target practice often, dress appropriately, avoid stupid places and stupid people, and for Gods sake be calm and courteous to everyone around you! I apply all these rules of thumb and 99.99% of all my interactions with people while open carrying have been positive.
I have never been upset, or even mildly concerned, when I see open carrying.
In fact, I feel better out in public knowing someone is carrying.
Respectfully going to disagree. I have seen some here in AL open carrying who had cheap and non secure holsters, and based on their mannerisms and actions were not truly comfortable carrying in any capacity. Their situational awareness was severely lacking. And in one case saw the firearm actually fall out of holster when they bent over in a Walmart.
I prefer to open carry. I live in Arizona and open carry is more comfortable for me. I have a Beretta M9A3 that I carry in a custom made shoulder holster. I use to carry on the hip but I have had 8 hip surgeries do to being hit with an RPG in Afghanistan. So, I went to the shoulder holster. Most times I have a t-shirt on with the shoulder holster over it, because of it being 90 to 110 degrees. Arizona is a very gun friendly state.
Love, LOVE our state. I'm down in Pearce - and people carrying is a common and welcome sight around here!
@@007Chancellor hello I wear bib Overalls is there a holster will work for me thanks
I like my shoulder holster because no matter where I go or what I am doing, I always have my shoulders with me - even if I don't have pants that would support a belt or holster.
In the bib pocket with pocket holster
@@garywelker9636
@@dalepres1Any recommendations for a good shoulder holster?
I’m open to either one, just depends on what your carry or surrounding, I believe don’t look for trouble and it won’t matter how you carry
Excellent advice, Massad! Open and conceal carrying offer different pros and cons - the 2A community hurts itself when it insists only one is “correct” for an armed citizenry.
I really appreciate how you can present an idea from all sides and explain logically why you believe what you do. It’s so rare anymore. Thank you.
There are those in society that do panic at the sight of a firearm. As a responsible gun owner I do carry concealed in order to mitigate their anxiety. Your calm, well thought out explanations are always appreciated.
Lol yea, they panic at the sight of a gun but they will tailgate someone on the interstate going 20 mph over the speed limit in the rain and not bat an eye.
There are people who panic at the sight of black people in hoodies or white peoples in tank tops.
I do not cater my Rights to the ‘emotional comfort zone” of those around me.
That said, I dress sharp, and carry myself in an alert yet professional manner, so I needn’t fear being thought of as a hoodlum.
I've been OCing since 2011. In that time, I've had 3 negative comments. The vast majority have been positive. I don't buy into the "don't OC, it scares people" argument. The days of gun owners taking a back seat, sitting down and shutting up - is over. We either use our rights or we lose them. I agree with most of the rest of Mas' comments. Especially the comment about "being a representative". Big Thumbs Up!
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I don’t have a problem with open carry laws because then if a state has an open carry law and you accidentally show your weapon you don’t get in trouble for it, for example Florida doesn’t have an open carry law now they adjusted the law a little bit, but it used to be that if your shirt came up and somebody saw you carrying you could get in trouble for brandishing, so now they made it where if it’s unintentional you can’t get in trouble for it. If the law allows open carry you can’t get in trouble for it regardless. If I have a choice because I’ve had bad experiences in the past I wouldn’t open carry even if it is the law. I think it’s good to have the option but I prefer concealed carry. Less attention drawn.
I think open carry is a stupid law, but is up to the individual.
@@alfonsobenitez8574 in a national emergency situation of unrest or escalated violence like we saw after George floyd it’s needed, and it could be in the future unfortunately especially if the left try’s some stuff in the near future
Agreed. And the reason you state is a big part of why I favor open carry being legal.
@@alfonsobenitez8574 Open carry is not a "stupid law", it is a CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT.
Accidentally exposing a firearm isn't brandishing. Lots of people think printing is brandishing a concealed firearm aswell but its not. Whether the carrier has any self awareness or not is the issue here.
Massad Ayoob is quickly becoming one of my favorites. He’s so knowledgeable giving great thought to his comments. He points out things I had never thought about and some things I had but never heard anyone mention.
I open carry, I carry concealed. Most days I barely conceal my gun t-shirt over the owb holster and I go handle my business. I notice open carriers because I look for them. I also notice a lot of them are using shit holsters, nylon universal types that don't hold anything securely or open top holsters with zero retention. I prefer open carry because as a former police officer and uniformed security officer that's the way I carried all the time so for me it's a little more comfortable because that's the way I'm used to carrying. I almost only cover the gun when open carry is not allowed.
im an advocate of both! I choose concealed carry for the same reason I don't have a Glock sticker on the window of my vehicle, that being, unwanted attention! I also enjoy the art of concealment!
You bring up a great point... so many profess to not want to draw attention to themselves or that they have guns, but then drive around with advertisements of it on their vehicles, or wear t-shirts or ball caps with it, and so on. I think most folks don't think things through and say things that support their bias. Simply put though, your actions and movements will draw attention far quicker than if you have a gun on your hip. The same way folks don't realize that the motion to draw a weapon, open or concealed, will draw the SAME attention. It is your movement, not what you have around your body that gets attention most of the time... and more so in an age where folks have cellphones or other items around their belts as pretty normal.
Carry. And carry the way it is legal and suits "you" and the factors "you" have and figured into the matter. Let others argue to defend their bias one way or the other. I also (like you) support all legal and responsible carry.. and neither hinges on open or concealed.
Cheers.
It depends where you live-both macro and micro. I carry open, even in the classroom as a teacher. The pupils love having a "cowboy" style teacher. When I am in more threatening areas, I keep it out of sight as not to be targeted for theft, murder or both. In the winter, with a coat, I'll even use a shoulder holster to conceal and facilitate easier draw.
Converted to shoulder holster this past winter. It's perfect for a concealed draw.
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@DawnTheFoxUwU I live in Israel. Technically, teachers are forbidden to come to school armed, but many of us flout that law. I've been disregarding it for over 25 years.
Having open carried for years now, I’ve had far more people come up to me and ask me questions about what gun I’m carrying, why I’m carrying, or asking about laws or the 2nd amendment, or just outright thanking me for exercising my Rights to keep the tradition alive.
I’ve never once been questioned about my firearm by police, despite many public interactions and passings, and I have not yet been mugged while carrying openly.
That said, I first started carrying concealed, when I was prohibited from doing so at work. During this time I was mugged 3 times, and each time my would be attacker fled immediately at the sight of my gun.
Thus, I still carry openly as my preferred choice.
Most would be attackers are not looking for a fight, but an easy target, and if I am not visibly armed, I look just like any other unarmed, and Defenceless bloke.
Any attacker willing to sneak up on you and beat you over the head or shoot you in the back will do so whether you are visibly armed or not. Ambush tactics are your greatest weakness, regardless of how you carry, and everybody who carries, openly or concealed, is already a target for such perps.
Carry how you most feel comfortable, and be grateful that more of your fellow people are also carrying.
What shoulder holster would you recommend? Been thinking about getting a few.
Really appreciate your calm, logical and informed discussion of these important matters.
I was born and raised in an open carry state, now live in one that recently made open carry legal. Massad is absolutely correct, whether carrying open of concealed depends on the time and place. Around home and my local small town where most everyone knows me I often carry open. When I go to larger urban areas I carry concealed for the reasons Massad lists.
You make good argument for concealed carry. I tend to open carry . I rather deter then have have to pull my weapon .
I am all for Open Carry in a lever 3 holster. It should not be creating fear in the public, it should be creating relief and a sense of safety in them!
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I had just an incident at the dog park once. Summer, warm, I had a light top on and shorts, was covering the pistol w/ my T shirt, not very well. Long story short, I had a dispute about a situation w/ my dog, we traded words, he left.
I see him in the distance on the phone, a few minutes later sirens abound, 5 cruisers pull up. I knew what had happened, I kept my hands up and the officer told me the man said I pulled my firearm and threatened him, of course I did not, I was fortunate one of the officers was one I knew, I had seen him multiple times when I was an ER RN at a local trauma center, showed him my CCW and my RSO certificate, Drives license etc. I was allowed to leave and he believed by version of what had happened, no one else at the park saw me draw my weapon. Could have been bad! I carry more concealed now.
Each type of carrying has its own pluses and minuses, you have to evaluate your plans for the day and choose the best option for that day, but no matter what you choose there is no substitute for situational awareness
I open carry on my homestead all the time, because it's mine (videos on my channel if you're into homesteading type content). I likewise have open carried god knows how many times while hunting.
The only times I have ever open carried in an urban or other inhabited setting, which I have done many times, I have always carried a second gun, concealed, in case of gun grabs, etc.
Thanks for keeping us thinking ! Thoughtful carry is the safest carry !
Always!
The goal is to have a society that is so gun-friendly that people could open carry left and right and no one would bat an eye. I think open carrying respectfully and reasonably is just one of many steps to get there. But of course far more effective is introducing more people to the 2nd Amendment, taking someone shooting, have civil discussions on gun debates, and educate people on why our right to bear arms is essential.
I believe we are winning this fight, because more and more people are buying guns for the first time and more people realizing that they are the ones responsible for our own protection and their family, not the police 10 minutes away.
Thanks for your service to humanity! You fade a lot of heat for being pro self-defense! Much respect Mas! (Concealed)
No doubt
Thanks
I open carry when I do outdoors stuff and conceal carry all of the other time.
Great points sir, I spent 22 years in the military and like you I study the folks around me I sometimes open carry depending on the situation, I carry the 1911A1 or the M9 with the Glock 26 as a back up, living in Texas I rarely see any open carry folks, I have my license to carry and also insurance
Massad, One of the best in the Business. When in doubt listen to his advice. It goes miles in your favor
The Active Self Protection channel on YT has several videos of open-carriers getting their weapons snatched when caught by surprise. This should be the worst nightmare of anyone carrying a firearm. To anyone who insists on openly carrying in public, you must, must, MUST be aware of your surroundings at all times. Just my 2 cents.
I Open Carried for years until ID passed Constitutional Carry and I agree 100% that if you are going that route, your Situational Awareness needs to be just One Click Shy of Active Paranoia... And TRAIN against the possibility of someone making a Grab for your Weapon...
Millions openly carry firearms. The odds of that (open-carried gun snatched) happening are extremely low. A few videos of isolated incidents (lightning striking) here or there don't change that reality.
I open and conceal carry, when I open carry I do so with a level 2 to 3 holster.
Inowing your surroundings should be the same, whether CCW or open.
@@anraegodley-cooper6321 .. Some must live in some mighty strange neighborhoods. I've carried firearms off and on for decades and nobody has ever tried to take one. Never even heard of it happening. I suppose it could (anything is possible), but the odds of it seem extremely low. Most likely have a far greater chance of shooting themselves.
I see and have used the advantages of both. Seeing my open carry in Las Vegas stopped at least 1 robbery attempt. I know cause my wife heard 1 of the 3 dudes say " not them, he's got a gun" before making a bee line away from us. I'm now back in constitutional carry Maine and happy as a lark. My advice, if you open carry, have a hefty retention device.
I have open carried in Colorado because my Virginia permit was not recognized. It was not my preferred method but it was the only method available to me. My experience was positive and even got a thumbs up from a police officer. I can attest that most people won't notice. A middle aged woman came up to me and asked if I would sign an anti-fracking petition and she did not notice the 1911 and two spare magazines on my hip. In general, the only time I open carry is when I am in the field. That long gun is a dead giveaway that I am armed so why bother concealing the pistol. I always carry in a level III retention holster when I do open carry.
Not so fast with the "secret weapon" argument. How many people have gotten into a DGU situation because the assailant assumed a person was unarmed because he did not see the weapon? We aren't dealing with rocket scientists. Each method has its risks.
I used to open carry in Ohio, prior to there even being a CCW law. Nobody ever said a thing, they probably assumed I was an LEO as I was, at the time, clean cut and well dressed. As soon as I could carry concealed, I did. Don't like to stick out.
@Atriya Wadhwani Anti-Fracking zealots are usually anti-gun. She didn't noticed. I have open carried in Northern Virginia where you don't see it very often and nobody noticed.
Mas is an engaging, articulate proponent of all things sensible about firearms. An amazing wealth of knowledge and background, and if we gun owners ever needed an eloquent, irrefutable spokesman in Congressional testimony, in honest debate, in pretty much any realistic forum, Ayoob would be my first choice. Yes, there are others as capable, and frankly, Johnny, we need them all as voices against the irrational, hair-tearing radical Left anti-gun factions. It really is a matter of the rational versus emotional, an understanding of our Constitutional rights versus fabricated, fear-mongering dogma coming from the Left.
Wise advice from the legendary man. I really appreciate these kinds of sane, sober videos. Thanks!
Any time!
I was open carrying the other day (was concealed, day started off rainy and turned to sun, jacket off) grabbing wine. A cop gets behind me in the checkout line and we start talking 07 Napa and how good the 21 Napa will be after a 10 year hold. I told him to stay safe, he said thanks... we went on our ways.
As usual Massad always makes great sense
Reasonable comments from a wise man. I wish I could hear stuff like this more often.
I never ever advertise that I’m armed. It’s always concealed and I don’t wear a Glock hat or an NRA t-shirt. I’m the Grey Man.
Or a MAGA hat, that could be a problem too 😁
The Grey man. Moves slowly but thinks fast and is always aware of his surroundings is likely to live longer and safer.
Yep, the Grey Man. That’s why I don’t even workout, I don’t want to look like a buff military vet with a concealed firearm. 😉 Nobody is expecting Mr. Dad Bod to be armed. 😂
I agree but I'm not sure it really matters. Like Mas said everyone is buried in their cell phones and totally impervious to anything around them. Maybe a criminal about to do a crime but again there are so many people wearing a plethora of shirts now days I'm not sure they will take the time to read what a shirt/hat really says.
@@Bluescout612 I think those of us who carry are a lot more self aware than the average Joe.
I agree with you. It's summer so it kind of hard to keep it out of sight. I prefer six shooters because I'm more accurate then my 9mm.
Yup. My .357 works just fine. Six shots of hot lead.
@@elijahparker7655 just bought one. Have had a 44 mag got 30 years and love hunting with it but the barrel is a little to long so I got a 357. I just got to practice more. My 9 mm even has a Lazer scope but just haven't got the hang of it. Don't know why I bought it but my 44 is my baby and hoping the 357 is as good
@@richardhessert7862 I believe you'll be satisfied. Recoil similar to a hot 9mm round, with just enough power to get there fast, but still pack a punch.
(My rounds fire at approximately 1,310fps and deliver 430ft-lbs into the target.)
@@elijahparker7655 hope I get use to it. Just wanted something smaller framed for protection and hunting.
I lived in an open carry state before and excepted when working as a uniformed police officer I never open carried. Now in FL it is illegal but wish it was legal because it is hot and if you gun shows and someone calls police you have a problem if visible. So I am for open carry for those who wish to do so.
Had a debate with a cop at a Denny's by the Miami airport about 30 years ago. I was sitting at the counter and had mine on my hip in a Harley "Wild West" pouch which VAGUELY resembled an old-style flap holster, except for the fact that the pistol COMPLETELY disappeared into it under a double-snap flap closure. Had to explain to him what "concealed from ordinary sight" meant. And it's the WEAPON that has to be concealed from ordinary sight, not the pouch, holster, purse, or whatever you're carrying it in (think: fanny-pack). I told him you have NO WAY of KNOWING what is in that pouch!
There were actually two cops that came in together for dinner; the other one didn't give a crap... he just wanted to eat : )
I have to say from reading the comments that a lot of educated people follow Massad. Learned much from Massad and the comments.
I am a CCW supporter. It makes little sense to me to advertise one’s status. If you are a uniformed peace officer or military policeman, of course open carry makes sense. Otherwise, do as you think best within the law.
What makes them different to you? Let me assume like you probably do. They are well trained? They are more trained? They have more sense of right and wrong?
I disagree with this mentality whole-heartedly. It's a well-known fact in the 2A community that many cops (and probably even more soldiers) never even held a gun before they joined.
Who would you feel more safe around? Your dad that never served and isn't a cop, but has handled guns for 60 of his 70 years on this planet, or your brother in law that just left basic or the academy, never having touched a gun in his first 25 years of life? I'll take the first guy any day of the week.
No one cares that cops open carry, yet so many people in the 2A community care if we do. 🙄
@@MrFixItGa Finally someone in these comments that truly gets it. Thank you!
@@MrFixItGa The difference is that everyone knows uniformed military or police are carrying a weapon so concealing it makes no sense. A regular citizen is usually not carrying so having a weapon concealed gives you an advantage in surprise.
@@daviddacactus Concealing it would slow down anyone who sought to disarm them... just as it would when a "civilian" is carrying. I wouldn't want to be open-carrying ANYWHERE I had to squeeze through a crowd... whether I was a cop or not!
As stated in this video environment dictates where I open carry or conceal carry. For me open carry equates to waving the American Flag and has a distinct purpose. I conceal carry most of the time.
You are gem of logical, practical expertise and wisdom on this subject, in addition having real historical examples of what you talk adbout. I'm so glad I came across your channel Mr. Wilson
I am lucky to be seeing this on 11/13, I prefer Concealed as I am not an LEO, although much of my family is and was , RIP ;
Another great insights and advise! You’re the best! Thank you for your work and be safe! 🙏
I tend to be in the middle. Often it depends on the time of year and the weather. Lol
I enjoy your friendly, down home, videos. You are always polite and considerate of your audience. You offer what works for you and don't try to force your views on anyone. There are times it is hard to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys. I enjoy watching you be you. Keep on keepin' on.
I'm so glad you didn't bash open carry like most others. I opened carry for several years before getting my ccw, which I still do open carry to this day. I'm on the side of just carry a gun. To be fair, if a criminal wanted to steal your gun or just shoot you on site, he would do it regardless if you had a pistol on your hip or not. Just use your head out there and make it home safe.
Totally agree! Here in Iowa, one can conceal or open carry.
Myself, I open carry and truly hope I never EVER have to draw on someone!
Correct. But sadly you see so many not think things though, just so they can convince themselves that they are carrying the "best" and "right" way. It's the same type of things we see with Chevy vs Ford or 9mm vs 45. Most of the arguments are at best only partially true (again, at best), and in the end they only effect the person making them. I have never run into the potential horror stories often touted concerning open carry, and I will leave it at that. I support legal and responsible carry.... and none of that (unless not legal in the State) hinges on whether the pistol is open or concealed. We need to stop trying to make divisions among law abiding citizens and those who exercise their Constitutionally protected Rights. Sadly though.... many don't understand that, instead they want to help the anti-gun folks demonize a segment of us, or the gun itself. They really need to stop doing that. It isn't open carry that hurts us, it is THAT that does. Cheers.
This man is so articulate in his videos.makes some very good points.especially agree with we don't have the right to frighten other people
I don’t open carry but I also don’t get obsessed with printing. If I am OWB I will just pull my t-shirt over it going into a store or similar. I also live in an open carry state. Unfortunately alot of the opposed picture open carry as that one individual in a cut off shirt, jean shorts, and a velcro holster flopped over the tactical muffin top.
.....to be fair, those are almost all of the open carriers that I see. Some crap holster flopping around barely attached to their pocket or something stupid like that.
@@ManDuderGuy yep. That does make it even worse especially the perception of what a “Gun” person looks like.
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. I don't want to draw attention to myself, so I don't want ANYONE to see that I'm carrying a gun out in public.
Good arguments. Me personally I prefer to open carry for political reasons. The more people are exposed to seeing guns the less frightening is. Also on the same note: " if you don't use it you lose it ". I'm talking about 2nd amendment.
Massad Ayoob, you are truly a gift from above with youre insight. New Hampshire definitely had the greatest state trooper in history on their side. I only wish you would have served in my home state growing up.
Shall not be infringed - I believe in comfortable carry, I put a gun on comfortably. If an outer garment covers it fine, if it is open because of the weather that is fine too. If we had Liberty this would not be an issue.
There you have it. An actually well thought out repsonse to the subject, without polarizing and bias. Thank you, Mr. Ayoob.
A couple of years ago I did an experiment. I open carried to the office every day for a week. The next Monday I asked the people I work with if they noticed anything different about me the previous week. Exactly one person said that I’d carried a gun on my hip the previous week. So now I still usually carry concealed but if I take off the suit coat while carrying I don’t worry too much about it. I know most people won’t know anyway.
Correct! More people notice and comment about my hat or belt buckle than do my pistol. If you live your life trying to not offend ANYONE, or worried about what EVERYONE might think, you stop living your life as a free person. Simply put most people don't care, or notice the things we might think they do. Like the saying goes, "you would be surprised at how little anyone actually thinks about you". Too many people live in a fantasy.
AS always Massad delivers excellent, sounds advice. I personally NEVER open carry, for multiple reasons...but his point at the 6:47 mark is my main reason. If a nutjob walks in intent on killing people, and sees your weapon, you just became his prime target. Just because you CAN do something, doesn't mean you SHOULD.
extremely well done covering all the issues involved.
I open carry when I’m at work and running errands pertaining to work. I wear a big smile too! Always watch my back no matter what the situation. I’ve never heard a story about someone getting disarmed but feel that 30 is a very, very low number of said incidents.
As always, sage advice. Thank you sir.
Very welcome
years ago. I was managing a convenience store which was right next door literally from Liberty firearms and gun store and instruction facility. The folks at Liberty came in open carry and I loved it.
Well spoken Sir! Many years ago, about 1985 if memory serves, a man walked into a Dunkin Donuts in Doraville, GA with the intent of killing his wife, a waitress there, he did exactly that. At the other end of the counter a Fireman was having a cup, saw the altercation and stood up, he wasn’t armed, but was in uniform and was wearing his badge, he was perceived as a threat, shot, and killed by the assailant. I’ve always thought that if the assailant sees a firearm, he will attack them first, once again as the perceived threat. Them NOT thinking you are a threat may very well save your life. The assailant may shoot you anyway, but if he sees a firearm you can almost guarantee you will be the first target.
You're making too many assumptions in order to confirm your own bias. The man was shot because he forcefully interjected himself into the situation. That much is fact. It's a large assumption that it was because he had a uniform and a badge on. On even a cursory analysis, your argument falls on its face. The suspect went into the facility to murder his wife but didn't notice a uniformed first responder (who happened to be unarmed) was sitting there until they jumped up and interjected themselves. You then made the assumption that the fireman was shot because of his uniform and the thought that he may have been armed. By your own detail of the story though, it appears the suspect went into the building and didn't even notice the first responder sitting there at all and probably didn't care. This means that it could have been a random open carrying citizen there and he still wouldn't have cared but that open carrier probably would have interjected potentially with a shot instead of harsh words before finally being acknowledged.
@@Talishar Not that it matters, but I disagree. He shot him because the Fireman was a perceived threat.
@@dannyfowler7055 By your own statement, the shooter didn't even recognize or know that the fireman existed or was there. He didn't shoot said fireman until the fireman stood up and presented himself. Before this, the shooter was completely oblivious to the fireman and his uniform. The fireman became an obstacle and a direct witness to the murder and that's probably why he shot him. It's a far more logical assumption to make than the guy panicked when seeing a badge as an actual police officer probably would have immediately shot the man instead of just yelling at him.
In this case, the open carrier would also have been completely overlooked as this guy initially missed an entire uniformed person sitting there or didn't care. This isn't a story of the evils of open carry, but of bad luck/misfortune. The perceived threat was of someone getting in his way and also being a witness to the crime, not necessarily being someone in uniform who strangely didn't ventilate him the moment he shot the waitress or attempted to shoot the waitress. If some other random guy were to also have interjected there without the uniform, they would have most likely met the same fate. The man was on a mission to kill someone else in public. He didn't care that there'd potentially be law enforcement, just that he had a goal and if he's willing to brutally murder his wife in a restaurant, he's going to probably not have any scruples getting rid of whoever stands in his way.
What your story completely misses is that anyone with a gun might have stopped the shooter, whether they were open carrying or concealed carrying.
1st time viewer here. Very healthy, straightforward, and knowlegdable. I would have to say im in 100% agreement. Thank you sir.
I do notice, here in Texas it's common practice. I worry about some of our elders I think they could be overtaken by someone who wants to do them harm. But for the most part it makes me feel safer knowing that my neighbors are armed and carrying 👍💯🇺🇸 I sometimes carry on my own property as someone else said. Those 4 legged critters are stealthy 😳
Thanks Mas! I am glad to see you are president of the second amendment foundation! Since I am an adherent to your tactics and training since the early 90's, I don't always carry like I used to. I would pick the right mode/holster more compact gun for
the events and tasks I was doing. Situational awareness why you would stay in a potentially dangerous situation comes to mind.
Well. My personal rule is: In a city or town, conceal carry. In the woods or wild areas such as hunting, open carry.
Mr Ayoob, thank you for all you do. Words can not express my thankfulness!
Great presentation. Measured, well balanced, and well presented. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I Live In Tennessee Son!!! I open when I want and conceal when I feel like it.
Open carry has helped me. A Kevin was upset at me in a parking lot. Came walking up to me shouting as I was getting out of the truck. Kept getting closer shouting and soon as I closed my door his eyes caught my gun on my hip and he stopped where he was. Stopped yelling and went back to his miserable life. I do see where there are also cases where you want to remain grey.
An instructor of mine told me to watch one of you videos and I enjoyed and leard from it. As for the open or concealed carry issue, I for the most part conceal carry.
Thank you Mas for your straightforward eloquent and easy to understand message about open carry versus concealed. We will share your message. It is disturbing to see certain political candidates lately try to win elections by suddenly stumping for open carry, in an attempt to steal their more worthy opponents’ well earned thunder, the Georgian candidates who truly support our second amendment rights.
My father in law is against open carry and his reason is pretty sound. To quote him “if the idea of carrying is to protect you and your loved ones hen concealed carry is the only option. As an example, of, God forbid, you find yourself in an situation with an active shooter, and you are open carrying, who is the first person the threat is going to notice? With everything going on in the world around the arguments around the validity of the right to carry, you don’t need to draw extra attention to yourself.”
The threat is not going to notice an open carrier if that carrier is not in their line of sight when they enter the space. Someone blasting through the door in Wal Mart when an open carrier is back in the dog food section will not have line of sight of the carrier. They will be no more of a target if out of line of sight and will have every ability as a concealed carrier to stop the threat.
What I don't understand is why someone with a CHL can conceal their handgun, but not a fixed-blade knife, at least in the jurisdictions with which I am familiar.
What a wise man you are, my Brother! Thank you for your contribution to 'sanity."
I prefer ccw but due to my spare tire, it is very uncomfortable. I open carry to an extent but I wear long T-shirts to help with concealment. My goal is self and family protection not to intimidate anyone.
you my friend are such a joy to listen to and your respect for the public is admired by me .I has a parent that was murdered so Your words were very important to me. With that being said, I have open carried But mostly concealed Carry.Thankyou so much for having these talks.
People just do not consider RURAL settings, and NATURE settings when coming down hard against open carry. We all tend to have a very myopic view of things. Which is unfortunate.
Do you know anyone who conceals in a nature setting? Maybe they exist…I don’t know…
When you open carry, you have the ability to carry bigger guns, carry more of them, and carry them comfortably. Don’t know of anyone who is concerned about the concealment trade-off in a nature setting. Predators tend to surprise you and if you need to clear garment or open your bag, then you’re already toast…
Not sure if it’s worthy of comparison for the point of this video. This is about protection from other people, not animals or targets…
Thank you, thoughtfull, reasoned, you asked for our "Views"
Mine is simply that you carefully and accurately summed up the situation and discussed the various necessary considerations.
Based on a lifetime in the political arena defending various "Rights"
you touch on two critical areas
Public perception and Emotional misperception
"With Rights comes a respoibility "
My opinion is this.. it depends on the environment that your going to be in. My self I carry concealed in a holster rig , when shopping ,dining. But most places I go to here( I live in Texas) locally never carry a gun, my wife does and she carries her in a purse. We don't have trouble in the country now being said when we go into Blue Cities we are locked and cocked.open carry when I'm working on the ranch at times. Open carry for a novice does not know how easy it is for a person following you are in a check out can grab it out of your holster pretty quick.. not good. That's my take.Concealed carry in these environments. THANKS
Same here. In Texas, live on a ranch. Same for me. At the ranch or going to town to get feed or supplies, I open carry. If we go to San Antonio, conceal carry. I try to adapt to my surroundings.
Yes if your open carrying a proper holster is a must imo, definitely want retention above a friction fit.
@@sisleymichael we are located in Flationa area, shop in Lagrange and Badtrop, when we go to Austin or San Antonio you bet I'm ready lol
Great topic. When my state approved handgun open carry I did open carry a couple times. I used a level 2 retention holster and it went fine. In the end I conceal carry 99% of the time.
"We do not have a right to alarm the public"
I suspect that will be the most controversial part of this video but it needed to be said. Even if that panic is objectively unreasonable, open carriers do nobody any favors by causing a panic when they trot around their AR15s in their local walmart.
A person can not be charged for a crime of causing a panic when they have the legal right to open carry. PD get sued every single year trying to pull that shit.
@@zack9912000 And your point? We're not talking about legal consequences. We're talking about social and societal. Scaring people does nothing to advance the cause of 2nd amendment support.
@@matthewblumenthal804 You can not live your life being concerned about everybody's fears...it is simply unrealistic. If I run up to the corner store or gas station with a gun on my hip, I'm not creating a panic or trying to cause fear in anybody...I'm living my life. The extreme example of someone going to Walmart with an AR slung across their back is not a reasonable example. Sure some "advocates" do it. It doesn't bother me. I don't do such things but, it isn't illegal where I live. How often do you or others routinely break traffic laws ? Speeding, not coming to a complete stop, following too closely, not signaling a lane change. Nobody seems concerned about me as a truck driver when, any number of routinely broken traffic laws can result in death. Why are the vast majority of citizens not concerned about me ? I am simply responsible for removing my self from the situation. Do you see what I'm getting at ? Driving is only a privilege, not a constitutionally enumerated right.
@@zack9912000 no but why would you want to make a spectacle of yourself? I don't want to draw any unnecessary attention to me or my wife when we are out together, usually on a date night. Even if I am by myself at the farm store getting chicken feed or tractor parts, I conceal carry. If no one sees it then no one can complain.
Sound advice as always. “If you open carry you’ll be shot first / disarmed / arrested” has become yet another Internet Legend.
There is a time and place where OC is safe and a time and place where it isn’t.