Tactical Shooting and Decision Making – Laws and Statutes.

We, the People choose to conceal-carry for many reasons. Some do it to protect themselves and their family while others want to exercise their constitutional right. There are some who choose to conceal carry based on a constitutional carry statute in their state of residence (like Florida) and others opt to apply for a State Conceal Carry permit that provides reciprocity in other states. But no matter why you chose to conceal carry a firearm, please know that you are responsible for understanding all applicable laws and statues in the state you reside in and the state where you may conceal carry.

I am not a criminal law attorney nor an expert on firearm laws and statutes, so everything that I explain here is based on my own personal experience and pertains only to my personal situation – not yours. If you have any questions of doubts you should seek advice from an expert.

The most important advice I can offer is about behavior and demeanor. The moment you decide to carry a firearm on your person you need to become a model citizen that behaves with respect for others and who avoids any type of confrontation by following a few simple rules:

1.    Learn how to say, “I apologize if I have offended you in any way” and walk away while swallowing your pride. If you can do this, then you may be able to avoid many situations that could require use of a firearm. Now that you have your Concealed Carry Permit, begin to display the qualities of humility and keep a level headed attitude about what you say and do at all times.

2.    Always conduct yourself in all matters and situations with respect and concern for yourself and for others around you.

3.    Do not get into an altercation or fight while in possession of a firearm, and if you do and then figure you are losing the fight, then take the loss and walk away. Do not start a fight because you are in possession of a firearm, because if you do, somehow, I think that you will regret it.

4.    If you have a concealed carry permit you must always keep your weapon concealed – never draw or show off your firearm unless you must use it in defense of yourself, family or others. Just because someone says that they want to beat up or harm you does not mean that you should bring out a firearm – it just means it’s time to start de-escalating the situation or figuring out how to defend yourself in the event that those spoken words begin to unfold as a real scenario.

5.    From my perspective, one of the most important things we can do is to always be aware of our surroundings, situations and individuals around us. When walking around keep all your senses active about what’s taking place around you instead of the screen on your cell phone. In many cases attempts to rob or harm you do not happen randomly. A criminal will observe you and if you are always aware of your surroundings, most criminals will not target you.

These are just simple recommendations. Look up and become familiar with the statutes regarding use of a firearm That are applicable to your state.

Be aware – be safe!