Should You Openly Carry During the Coronavirus Pandemic?

Some people expressed concern that openly carrying during the current panic would be wrong. To do so, they say, would be insensitive towards those who are already frightened by the pandemic, shortages, closures, and layoffs. Others think that open carry isn't safe.

First off, another person's perception is just that. Their perceptions is mostly based on internal factors; their knowledge, feelings, and beliefs. If they feared guns last month, they'll fear them today and tomorrow. Adding a pandemic into the mix and the resulting social uncertainty exacerbates their fears.

Seeing someone with a gun reminds them that they are in uncertain times and facing danger. That creates fear because they probably have not resolved their own physical and defensive security. If they are secure, they are not squared away mentally. You gun is just a reminder of their internal issues. Triggering them should be no more concern to an open carrier than the driver of black Jetta should worry that he is going to remind some guy of his ex-girlfriend's car. 

The shy concealed carrier that is worried about sensitive people's feelings probably also has issues of his own. Many concealed carriers who poo-poo open carry haven't resolved their perception of society's perception of them for carrying a gun. There is a deep-seated reason why a majority carries concealed. People just don't feel comfortable being armed or letting people know that they are. They project this emotion, even if its a tiny one, on to open carriers.

Now other people prefer to carry concealed for well-thought out reasons like being the gray man. I'm not beating up on them. This isn't about your considerate concealed carry. No, we're talking about the nervous opinionated nellies.

Second, open carry for the average, aware armed citizen is perfectly safe. Open carry gun snatchings are very rare and happen to very stupid people usually who have no retention. A retention holster will make the difference. Check out the comprehensive post of gun snatchings here.