Can we finally admit.. that Open Carry of Guns are a threat to the safety of the average citizen

[jmg257]

7. Lot of diverse points there.

"Carrying guns" has been a thing for decades...and is probably at its highest level now. In that time gun-related death rates have gone up, gun-related death rates have gone down...to the lowest point in years recently. Doesn't really seem to be a direct correlation, so very likely other factors matter more.

It appears that "self defense" is now the new number one reason given for owning guns, so while the percentage of people who owns guns may be trending down, the proportion who do own them seem to be more interested in having them for self-defense, including an increased desire to carry. This will effect the type of weapons purchased, and especially is causing an increase in handgun ownership.


As for open carry - generally - yes, I would rather have a carry weapon concealed. I would tend to view someone open carrying say a rifle 'out of place' with a bit more suspicion then someone who is not. Someone open carrying a handgun in a holster? Likely not quite such a big deal, but still would get a second or third glance.


The reason for open carry vary I assume...is it an attempt to normalize guns? To deter being victimized? To intimidate? To protest? Context would matter to decide whether they were looking or even asking for trouble.

Is it dangerous? Sure can be.