some background, if you want it. Early 40's white male, Eagle Scout, hunter, gun owner and 2nd Amendment supporter. I own a few shotguns, an AR, the almost obligatory 10/22, a Glock 23, and most recently, a 43.
So, I have been a permit holder for about 2 months now and I have been building the courage to carry. I read a lot of stories about first time carrying, holsters, what not to do, etc, but I unfortunately glossed over how to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself for it. I know in my heart and head if someone is in my home, threatening my family or myself, I am prepared to handle that. It took a lot to consider whether or not I was prepared for a threat outside my home, not to mention the emotional ramifications should I need to use my weapon. Looking back, I wish I would have paid more attention to those parts.
So I went on a trial run last night, to Walmart of course , with my wife while we gathered the items for Thanksgiving dinner. We where there about an hour and a half, and I am happy to report that I only truthfully THOUGHT about the fact that I had a firearm on me one time. I was reaching for an item on a high shelf, and feared it would show, and someone would call me one it and then I'd have to deal with that. I know that will probably happen eventually, but glad it wasn't my first time out.
Been carrying all day at home, and while out running errands, and I am getting more and more comfortable about it.
FYI - I am carrying the 43 using a CYA kydex holster and carrying at around 3:30 . I am a little chubby, after losing 110lbs from a gastric bypass, so this is a comfortable position for me.
Anyway, that is all. Have a great Thanksgiving and carry responsibly!
So, I have been a permit holder for about 2 months now and I have been building the courage to carry. I read a lot of stories about first time carrying, holsters, what not to do, etc, but I unfortunately glossed over how to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself for it. I know in my heart and head if someone is in my home, threatening my family or myself, I am prepared to handle that. It took a lot to consider whether or not I was prepared for a threat outside my home, not to mention the emotional ramifications should I need to use my weapon. Looking back, I wish I would have paid more attention to those parts.
So I went on a trial run last night, to Walmart of course , with my wife while we gathered the items for Thanksgiving dinner. We where there about an hour and a half, and I am happy to report that I only truthfully THOUGHT about the fact that I had a firearm on me one time. I was reaching for an item on a high shelf, and feared it would show, and someone would call me one it and then I'd have to deal with that. I know that will probably happen eventually, but glad it wasn't my first time out.
Been carrying all day at home, and while out running errands, and I am getting more and more comfortable about it.
FYI - I am carrying the 43 using a CYA kydex holster and carrying at around 3:30 . I am a little chubby, after losing 110lbs from a gastric bypass, so this is a comfortable position for me.
Anyway, that is all. Have a great Thanksgiving and carry responsibly!