What is Most Important in Self Defense - Master Class with Ken Hackathorn - Episode 27

[@roykiefer7713]

This is an absolutely superb video. I, too, am an “old guy” (75), however I learned the indispensable values of both “situational awareness” and of the “best tactic is avoidance” many years ago, during decades of military service. And with all the respect in the world for - and ALL POSSIBLE appreciation to - Ken Hackathorn, I want to briefly mention what I believe is a key point regarding SA. Specifically, it’s not only the people, but it is also the ENVIRONMENT. When your gut says something is wrong - even if no one and no thing is the identifiable “alarm catalyst” - then decide, act, and generally leave quickly. Here’s a common (but instructive) example: you’re is a bar, and not a disreputable one, but suddenly you have the visceral felling that something just isn’t right. Then get the hell out, BEFORE there’s trouble (always making sure that your route to safety doesn’t place you in additional potential danger). On several occasions over the decades, this has saved me from a good deal of possible grief.

[@carlmontney7916]

First, thank you for your service 🇺🇸. I will add that I also do this and will never sit anywhere with my back to the door. I want to see who's coming in, not be surprised by someone behind me. I also plan out what I think would be a quick way to get out if trouble happens. Stuff like is there another exit and if so can I sit by it. Or if in a restaurant, where's the door to the kitchen and how far is it from my seat. Some people might call that being paranoid. I call it being aware and safe!

[@roykiefer7713]

@@carlmontney7916 Thank you and I entirely agree. I’d add that such quite, private and consistent foresight also applies to non-defensive firearms emergencies, such as fires in restaurants, theaters, hotels/motels, and so forth. Millions of Americans expect someone or something else to ensure their safety - this results from several successive generations of self-indulgence, big government, and lack of individual accountability - but they are often tragically mistaken. The ONLY force that can be relied upon,100 percent of the time, to protect your family from a wide-range of substantial dangers is YOU . . . not law enforcement, not firefighters, not the military, not the medical community, and certainly not the welfare state. I have profound respect for police, firemen (and women), EMTs, all those who currently (or previously) sacrificed in the Armed Forces, and medical providers of all sorts. BUT, when the “chips are down” - for example, during widespread urban anarchy (arson, organized looting, murders, carjacking, armed home invasions, etc., which several cities recently experienced - every individuals must be ready to fend for himself and his family.

[@overeducated1786]

We old guys know this one truth- a shot fired can never be taken back. Situational awareness means we need to be careful when we draw, aim, and fire. Above all, do no harm to innocents.

[@roykiefer7713]

@@overeducated1786 All true . . . and (imho) should be combined with the concept that the best defensive confrontation outcome is one that is avoided.

[@chrispetersen113]

Don't ever go to bars in the Chicongo area...

[@theprepperrevelator]

The only fight you truly win is the one you don’t get into! AVOIDANCE is key! Ken, thank you for everything you have done for us gun guys!

[@MyWillypilly]

Avoidance, is a fight already won. Only engage if a fight or attack can't be avoided. I am not saying run and hide, but beware

[@williamneal7210]

Someone please tell my wife that...she kicks my butt every time!

[@bowtieguy85]

Father doesn't allow fighting anyways, especially if I'm in my good boy clothes. Which is pretty much every day almost. I'm taught to just put my hands up and do as I'm told.

[@johnshandloading7907]

The best way to avoid a confrontation, is to avoid a confrontation. My friend that was a Marine, FBI and police trainer told me "You win every fight you don't get in." He was right. He also told me when you HAVE to use force do it all the way.

[@bowtieguy85]

I was never allowed to fight especially if I was in my good boy clothes. Father taught me to just put my hands up and as I'm told.

[@bradleygraham896]

Your mind is your primary weapon and tutorials from Ken is like having a lawyer on retention. Sage advice as always.

[@dawg7750]

Never let your vehicle get so low on gas that you are forced to go to a SHITTY gas station.

[@LTVoyager]

Yes, that is the decision making aspect.

[@CliftonHicksbanjo]

What is most important in self-defense? To crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women.

[@Freedom4PalestineEndZioNazism]

You need a shrink bruv.

[@teddyrasputin3850]

You beat me to it. Guessing from the reply above that not everyone shares our sense of humour, or has seen & appreciates the Governator's classics.

[@heeebeeegeeebeee]

Ken - still a legend. Thanks for continuing to do these.

[@gowilsoncombat]

Thanks for listening

[@RickyJr46]

Prey and predators: my horse's high state of alert tipped me off to the presence of a trespasser, hiding in a stand of trees behind me. Without Scarlett's warning, he would've gone unnoticed!

[@josephroberts7597]

Just like big dogs!

[@carlmontney7916]

Great video Ken. I've always been a condition yellow type of guy. I always look around and see what's going on around me. I've always felt that part of the responsibility of owning a firearm especially one that you carry daily for personal protection, is making sure you never put yourself into a situation where you may have to use it. Gun or no gun, anytime I don't have to use it is a good thing. Sometimes trouble can't be avoided but you sure don't need to go around looking for it!

[@Snookynibbles]

Jeff Cooper’s “Color Codes of Situational Awareness” is an invaluable tool that drills-down into what Ken is talking about. A quick online search will uncover Col. Cooper’s system. It’s worth downloading, printing, studying & practicing.

[@Quality_Guru]

Pure Gold!

[@surfingonmars8979]

E.g. of situational awareness: walking in Brooklyn, of which I am a native, in mid-June, with three friends from upstate, rural NYS. 11 pm, leaving a party, walking to our car. I notice something across the street. I grab the guy closest to me, and simultaneously say to the others, “let’s go - cross the street - follow me….” We leave the car where it is and walk into an open restaurant, just closing up. The friends are confused. I say, “are you FUCKING kidding me - did you not see those three guys wearing long, heavy coats, in the middle of a June night in NYC???? What the fuck do you think they were doing, walking parallel to us on the other side of the street?” They did not notice them. Unbelievable!

[@bobhaehn5470]

My favorite situational awareness story. I don't often go to bars, but I don't shun them either. One night I was asked to join some coworkers at a local place and decided to accept. We had all been there awhile with people joining other groups and activities. So, we were scattered about. I ended up sitting by myself at the bar enjoying my beer and listening to the various levels of happy noise. Several young 'men' walked in and #1 stood just inside the door looking over the whole place for too long. Less than a minute but far too long to be casual. So, I watched for a few minutes as they wandered around and then methodically made their way toward the rear and I sensed it was not casual. I finished my beer and suggested to a few I knew that I was leaving, and they might want to do the same. "No, no. I's cool. We'll be fine" I left. Next day at work "Hey man! You missed it" I said no, I hadn't missed anything. A fight broke out and someone got stabbed with a screwdriver, and others beaten and kicked. I was home getting ready for bed. SAFE and unscathed

[@kennethlopez9677]

This is great advice. Some people believe that a gun makes them invincible. It is for defense not offense. Use it to protect yourself to get out of danger.

[@BobC59]

Precisely! Cocky and/or inexperienced people sometimes feel emboldened by being armed to go into situations they normally wouldn’t. “Its okay because Im carrying” is a HUGE mistake in judgement. I tell my son, “If you wouldn’t go into the situation unarmed, don’t go into it armed either”.

[@yepyep1013]

Agree.. Good reminders. Can’t sleepwalk when out and about in the jungle.

[@rustypugh123]

The same people who say that being aware of your surroundings is paranoid behavior are the same people who get mugged and never see it coming. And just because I'm aware of my surroundings doesn't mean it won't still happen. But I figure I have a much better chance if I at least see it coming.

[@BobC59]

Yes. And when you appear aware, a predator/stalker is more likely to pass you up for easier prey.

[@dwightbernheimer331]

I've been doing All these things for years... One of my good friends sez I'm Paranoid... I say... I'm Prepared... 'Nuff said!!!...

[@NorthwoodsShooter]

One of THE BEST videos Ken has produced! Excellent advice, spot on message. Thank you, Sir. And remember, Hope Is Not a Tactic!

[@TR_Deadeye]

Thank you for reminding us all of some of the most important qualities we all need to apply on the daily not being complacent!

[@BLACKWOLF-1911]

I urge everyone interested in this topic to go look up jeff coopers color code on mental preparedness. It's hands down the best video on tbe subject.

[@powercouple560]

OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act)

[@firemanbob1994]

I had this situational awareness conversation with my wife about 100 times. (she has the, my husband is paranoid, I say prepared, she says that doesn't happen in out neighborhood, I say it happens in every neighborhood just with different frequency) I let this video play while she was present and now she gets it. Thanks for what you guys are doing! Keep them coming!

[@spudthompson1414]

That comes into play when you are hunting is this the right dear is it a 8point and are the antlers outside of the ears then make sure what behind it and are the cross hairs where they should be and pulling the trigger and your breathing under control for a ethical shot.

[@Brett235]

Thank you Mr. Hackathorn, your advice is priceless. I have been teaching my wife to get off of her phone when she drives into a parking lot or somewhere that she is unfamiliar with because it's just dangerous. Situational awareness is the first and probably the best way to stay out of trouble.

[@cheapolegunguy]

That is one thing I learned long ago. I learned to be "street smart" before the military, then I learned "situational awareness" and with both I developed my "spidey senses" and that's kept me out of more than a few bad situations :)

[@mattberry4457]

great video. don’t get gas at 11 at night. go in the morning when the night turds are asleep.

[@brianstamm1314]

As a retired corrections officer, I have lost these techniques over the years. Thanks for reminding me with this video.

[@bobocan17]

Someday I dream to have a mustache as excellent as Ken’s.

[@martybousum1010]

I have avoided being ambushed by using these skills Plus intuitive feelings of danger!

[@TexasIndependenceNow]

Thanks for the Content Wilson Combat Team and please give a big Thanks to MSG. Paul Howe for us for doing some Great Video Content also. MSG. Paul Howe is the Real Deal Holifield. More Info from him on the way hopefully. 🇸🇴

[@algoneby]

Wise words, I wonder how much of this actually soaks in with people. Situational awareness is a biggie. A color code should be developed for all types of situations. Hmmm.... Seems like that might have been thought of. Jeff Cooper might have addressed this topic, I am not sure.

[@cleondubois1270]

Great Advice...Other important locations are ATMs: walk-up & drive-up.

[@gowilsoncombat]

Absolutely

[@konradterlikowski8788]

Hell, even if it makes me be seen as "paranoid" - don't care, at least I'm safe. Do I need extra security bar at my door? Probably not, but it does not hurt to have one. Do I need a dashcam in my truck? Never had to use the video over many years - still I'd rather have it and not need the video, than need a video that is not there. Cameras around the home and doorcam? Same, probably will never need it, but hell if one day someone comes knock on my door at 3am, I would really want to know who is it, and know if there is anyone alse around the corner. My wife loves my "paranoia".

[@harrydexter8426]

Very good valid points. Definitely the thoughts of an experienced person!👍😊🇺🇸

[@gowilsoncombat]

Right on

[@mortykatz2236]

So on point. I’m so glad i grew up in nyc the hood. My wife has no clue her kids have their heads up their ass’s and the grand kids as well- and they won’t listen. I’m 71 and it’s exhausting being a Shepard to these sheeples

[@BobC59]

Do not be emboldened by your gun to enter “sketchy” places or situations you would otherwise avoid! Apply the same judgment as if you were completely unarmed and you will be making the best call.

[@mikroskosmos5315]

I love advice like this when it's like "be good at x" when I already happen to be good at x.

[@spudthompson1414]

Gust before you sead about being aware I got that from years of hunting you can be somethings next meal.

[@marinecombatvet2669]

This is an incredible video that more need to see. How are the views under 100k??? I'm saving this video to show to EVERY person I care about. If every person would just watch this, imagine how far the rates of violent victimization would just DROP. Thank you for your insight Sir. This is nothing about paranoia. This is about being aware, and STAYING ALIVE in the face of potential criminals and victimizers. "The most important thing you can do is not get into a situation." This is the best goddamn advice I have ever heard. THANK YOU. You will save the lives of those I love, or of those I don't even know, with this video. Thank you Sir.

[@douglass69]

Watch how birds eat, take a bite…look all around, take a bite…look all around.

[@ahchu3256]

Excellent truth about your key and best tool of self-defense - Situational awareness!! Thanks, so much for caring about your viewers!

[@GunsHarleysUSA]

I agree 100% with you Ken, always be aware of your surroundings wherever you go and when I go into a Restaurant I will always set towards the rear and my back is against the wall so I have full viewing of the entire restaurant at all time and when I leave the restaurant I stop just outside the door and scan the entire area before walking to my car and I also look into my car before I open the doors. Paranoid, no just staying one step ahead of the game criminals like to play. I have had my carry permit for 24 years now and I do practice my shooting skills on a regular basis as should you if you carry.

[@the45er]

Your brain is your first line of defense. Your feet are your second. The firearm you have on you is a distant third.

[@jerryrobbins5013]

Great video! Without situational awareness, all the shiny guns and skills in the world cannot help you.

[@spudthompson1414]

He is right about being aware of your saroundings being a hunter I am aware even if I am aney ware know hue and what around you

[@MaMa-qh4dy]

Thank you for posting. Ken is a NATIONAL TREASURE!!!!

[@gowilsoncombat]

Our pleasure!

[@vicco55]

Outstanding video. Thank you for posting.

[@Followme556]

Ken Hackathorn > Any modern tacticool instructor

[@danielmihai5628]

*To obtain financial freedom, one must be either a business owner, an investor or both, generating passive income, particularly on a monthly basis.*

[@geraldwilansky6424]

There are platform where you can invest and trade your money. Then you gain profit either weekly or monthly. That's investing.

[@francetydamien]

I’ve been trading crypto with Mr Michael Wayne for over a year now and I've made about a whooping profit of $86,000 in crypto its not much but I'm ok with the progress since i now make a whole lot from the comfort of my bed.

[@francetydamien]

Get him on Whats=app👇

[@francetydamien]

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[@johnc5802]

I think trading is easier with proper guidance, especially from a proffessional it really helps reduce the chances of running into losses. All thanks to Mr Michael Wayne. He changed my life, I was able to pay off my mortgage

[@KLeVoyBarnes]

YOUR CAR IS A GREAT WEAPON IT IS EXPENDABLE AND IT CAN DO TREMENDOUS DAMAGE TO THE BAD GUY DON'T GET OUT OF THE CAR - IT IS HEAVY METAL AND MOBILE

[@Hawk-ODA212]

Excellent presentation!!!!! Thank you. This is verbatim what I have been teaching students in my concealed carry classes for years. Separate classes on situational awareness, confrontational de-escalation, threat identification and threat avoidance is also beneficial. But some of the basic principles should always be incorporated in concealed carry or self-defense courses.

[@waynebuckley5258]

Great advice code yellow practice gun skills

[@dmanderson01]

How awesome and right on was that. Thanks!!’

[@gowilsoncombat]

You bet!

[@prairiepatriot2162]

When Ken Hackathorn is speaking, everyone needs to be listening, and this is no exception. Nobody told me to avoid gas stations at night, but somehow nearly every encounter I've had where I was confronted by an unstable person and thought I may have to defend myself was at a gas station at night. Predators also hang out at "watering holes" waiting for prey.

[@markalford5406]

I grew up in the inner cities, hunting my whole life and I know these things don’t usually go together. Good advice never the less.

[@rachaelhuey7828]

Well put !!!

[@apuzyr]

Excellent video. I always try to convey “staying vigilant” to my 20 y/o children.

[@gowilsoncombat]

Right on

[@OLDTIMEMETAL]

ALWAYS A PLEASURE.

[@yokoshemp]

Ken is right about the situational awareness. Then again I can't live my life paranoid. Bad guys will stalk you and attack when you are not looking.

[@debieaves4788]

We have eyes, ears, intuition/“gut”, and a brain. Being “situationally aware” isn’t about being paranoid - it’s about being aware of ANY potential hazard in your environment that could negatively impact our safety. We start teaching our children at a young age that a hot burner on the stove is dangerous. Don’t stick fingers or anything else into a electrical outlet. Stop, listen, and look both ways before crossing the street. My son wasn’t paranoid of the stove, electrical outlets, or vehicles as a result of this training. He became aware of the potential danger though. ✔️😃✌️

[@toiletpaper5770]

I disagree with Ken about eye contact: in my experience when you acknowledge "these" people, it gives them an opening to approach you and/or strike up a conversation. If you are aware of your peripherals (which you should be anyway), they will notice and may see you as a less desirable target. At the gas pump if somebody drives up behind me I deliberately face them, but not face-to-face. I guess there is a place for CONFIDENT eye contact but I would think this is after the situation has escalated. There is no place for "unconfident" eye contact. No disrespect to Ken but this is my experience and observation.

[@ShininRock]

Let's not confuse brief eye contact with staring. Eye contact seldom results in an unwanted response whereas staring often will.

[@toiletpaper5770]

@@ShininRock thanks bud Because people are inherently good, right? "This is my experience and observation"

[@dalewalters357]

Well said… thank you

[@kyliejohn3813]

I guess the phrase would be “preparanoid” 👍

[@ColeDedhand]

The question is not "am I paranoid?", but "am I paranoid ENOUGH?"

[@jinksomiabodyart3189]

The 100 thanks is not enough. Thank you Sir.

[@abelgirsh6440]

Took your advice and watched Paul's video you mentioned. Very informative four minutes. And I totally agree about people on their phones, you could walk by and slit their throats and they wouldn't know what hit them till it's to late and they would have never even looked at you unless you're directly in front of them blocking their path. I see it everyday at work during shift change. 90% of people have nothing on their mind except that screen.

[@centex52]

extremely informative video ty sir

[@gowilsoncombat]

Most welcome

[@kayakdog121]

Criminals with often look for their next victim as he or she is turning into the entrance of a parking lot of a retail area, gas station, etc. They want to know who the brand new arrivals are and judge their vulnerability at choke points and watch where you go rather than randomly driving or walking around the parking lot looking for victims. Take a quick scan around as you're driving through the entrance and see if anybody has their focus on you.

[@TerminalM193]

99% of focus on focus situations are completely benign but it's still a good habit to get into.

[@wingman8447]

My Army/LEO Dad taught me about being aware of my surroundings. I taught my kids. Head on a swivel. Situational awareness. Conflict avoidance. Thank you. Great stuff.

[@moshebenamram6020]

*Thank You very very very much Sir*

[@MyWillypilly]

I got a very dirty look in a Wal-Mart parking lot. The guy was beating me up or killing me in his mind. I immediately locked my car and proceeded inside the store.

[@MyWillypilly]

As a follow up. I watched for him inside the store and also made sure I didnt spot him , still lingering in the parking lot when I left. Honestly, I think he was looking for a fight, and wanted me to engage

[@michaelbarfield528]

Great information!!!! BZ..........

[@dtna]

Amen, brother.... Excellent! From the first API (Orange Gunsite) instructor. Then Clint Smith, Louie Awerbuck, Pat Rogers, Bill Jeans, etc. to follow.

[@tekannon7803]

As an overseas viewer, it's always interesting to hear about life in your country where one has to be aware of what's going on around you. However, I think one should not let one's guard down so to speak, in any country especially in the times we live in. My question is this: Is it true that if you sense you are being followed, let's say it's dusk and you're crossing an empty town square and you see someone on the other side of the square pacing you, that if you look towards the person and if possible in the person's eyes, that in many circumstances the perpetrator will leave you alone? Is it true that a possible assailant does not want you to see what they look like so if you look them in the eyes it will spook them? In your opinion, what is the best way to deal with someone following you and it's just you and the person following you?

[@TerminalM193]

That's 1000 % true. The vast majority of predators are looking for the easiest victim possible, just like in the animal kingdom. They are constantly scanning for unaware, meek individuals who look like the easiest target possible. By simple eye contact you not only show that you know that THEY know you're not fully aware but in their head paranoia will then set in, now questioning if the target they just sought out is really as easy as they thought. Of course most eye contact by chance is benign in nature, BUT here in any city in America you MUST be aware of your surroundings at the very least. My family have been in law enforcement from 911 operators, police, detective work and older brother is now in crime scene investigation. I've heard some absolutely chilling stories that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy but I've also been able to learn vast amounts of knowledge on the criminal psyche from low level to high level crimes. Your biggest defense is situational awareness and making eye contact with one you may believe to be a threat. Not saying to live your life through paranoia but at the very least be aware....

[@karledgren8150]

Excellent video I try my best to practice this wherever I go not paranoid just checking my surroundings

[@Afrattzz1]

Thanks Ken! I appreciate your wisdom and knowledge

[@gowilsoncombat]

Any time

[@surfingonmars8979]

Example of sit awareness:

[@Valorius]

Never sit with your back to the door.

[@DK-gy7ll]

Speaking as someone who always tries to live in Condition Yellow, I'm absolutely amazed by how many people I meet in the everyday world who are completely oblivious to the world around them. I used to wonder if I was just a ghost and they couldn't see me. I've since learned that they all live in Condition White and pay absolutely no attention to anything or anyone they're not directly interacting with. Not a sound plan for survival, especially in this day and age.

[@debieaves4788]

PREACH!!

[@spudthompson1414]

Thank you for telling me I have been doing it right I am always aware of what's around me that was my point always be aware!!

[@gowilsoncombat]

Perfect!

[@cameronizatt3293]

A wonderful video with excellent advice. Thank you!

[@gowilsoncombat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ck9363]

If I could add, I agree that if you find yourself already in "combat marksmanship mode", not only did you already fuck up twice, at least,but defence to me always means starting from an inferior position . The old "action beats reaction" is true, So those of us that carry, understand that to initiate means to turn defence into offense. And it's not called self-offence its self-defence. So at those moments you've already got to overcome "action beats reaction." Because it does, and you have to. And anyone who has honestly thought about it and still chooses to carry, is the mark of a man or woman, that I want carrying. Look, I'm a gun guy too as much as the next, but I remember when I first started carrying I understiod how good you have to be. Not just good with my firearm, but myself as a weapon, and as a responsible man. Ken knows what he is talking about. If you cant do as Ken describes, seriously consider weather you should at all.

[@TheWhiteboy40]

Thank you once again KH

[@gowilsoncombat]

Any time

[@zermomia]

Praying good for help?

[@CookbookAdventures]

Thanks Ken, you and Bill have a plethora of good information. Its almost like taking a master class from two guys that have multiple PhD's with anything gun and defense related.

[@Pennconst101]

2:10 regarding gas stations at night in unknown/unsafe areas, by far one of the best suggestions I’ve Heard and use Is (whenever possible) do a quick drive around the building Before pulling up to your pump. Statistically you decrease the potential for ambush by 96.7%. You will also be able to tell if there’s anything shady going on inside. Great video! God bless.

[@bosse641]

Awesome. Thanks.

[@gowilsoncombat]

You're welcome!

[@davidhodges7535]

Sir Thank you for sharing your knowledge I'm a big fan sir

[@gowilsoncombat]

Thanks and welcome

[@CombatVetTom]

VERY VERY good informative video! GREAT points made here! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@debieaves4788]

Thank you for a great lesson! It was more of a “refresher” for me but, there were also some new “take away” points that I learned. If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that I don’t know everything.

[@rickyramirez3483]

Air Assault, Sir!

[@mikemusgrove9654]

Paul Howe is the epitome of a quiet professional.🇺🇸

[@terryr.t.2113]

Keep the fone in right back pocket! Compact pistol is (legal in my State) IWB, 3 to 3:30 canted. Extra mag @ 9:00 OWB in flap covered web pouch/holster!

[@AlphaTangoSierra]

Perfect & Professional Content Exactly to the point of basic requirements of every self defender, whether carrying CCW or not. This situational awareness can save your life in several different ways, and let you go out of any danger zone in-time. Always Observe, Assess, Decide & then Execute Your Actions

[@JohnYoung-bt5we]

Great advice , almost thought I was listening Jeff Cooper , Mind Set Mind Set Mind Set

[@terrymckinch8587]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I did go and watch this Hostile or Friendly? Target Discrimination - CSAT with Paul Howe, it was simple and I use it all the time, I just didn't realize it. Now I will practice more.

[@Demonoid1990]

This is always one of my concerns being a truck driver traveling across multiple states. Firearm laws from state to state vary so much especially passing in and out of liberal hives like California regularly. I carry plenty of knives, I keep em razor sharp, but it's only so much use.(at least it's reliable if I can get it out quick enough) It would be nice if we had better concealed carry reciprocity across states. But that still can depend on state, county, and city/town I happen to be in. Out here running I5 on the west coast, I'm always cautious about where I shutdown or park for the day or weekend. Homelessness out here has exploded, and crime is on the rise in many places. Plus being on the road all the time, I've gotta deal with other less than capable drivers a lot. Everything from road rage, village idiots, distracted drivers, unpredictable drivers, drunks, hot rod Henry's, ect.. One of the reasons why trucking is considered one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs here in the USA, as well as many other countries.

[@AGC828]

"Situational awareness"....it IS something that has to be "trained" and in muscle memory. So that we're not in a constant state of paranoia. No one should live that way. But, I also think most civilians will have a hard time developing "situational awareness" because we all see things differently. what's "potentially dangerous" to one person is a 5 out of 10 to anoher.....8 out 10 to another.....etc. Best to AVOID and not be a hero...even if we have a CCW permit and are CC. We are not "trained for tactical SWat scenarios". e.g. bank robbery.....or any situation where there are many innocents than could suddenly right past our field of view....what about our bullets r ricocheting and hitting someone we didn't intend to?? Plus most of us will be too distratcted by everyday life e.g. coffee in one hand phone in the other....eyes on attractive woman. If trained LEO and military can make mistake. under pressure.... ....one more point---"taking a life"....a lot harder for most of us to do than we think (if we're sane). Even if its a threat or an innocent (accidentally). Can we live with it?? Even if we don't go to court and can go about our lives after. Can be pretty traumatic for most of us....with a conscience....why many of us can't be "hunters" e.g. killing a deer going about it's life looking for food just to survive....not bothering u...etc.

[@BigBear--]

Honestly the thing that scares me more than a self-defense situation is the potential aftermath. For the most part I don’t trust our politicized, and in many cases corrupt, justice system. Even if you’re on the right side of the situation (and the law as written), they often times still try to “throw the book” at you and see what sticks in court - so you’re stuck having to defend yourself twice, once to save your life (or someone else’s), the other in court to a jury because you got an asshole prosecutor or PD. Then there’s situations that you know are right, and have no idea how they’ll play out in court. Like if someone busts into a business with a gun to try to rob the place, and you’re a customer that’s carrying, can you shoot the perp? Should you? He’s introduced deadly force into a situation, and his demeanor is hostile/aggressive. But what if they try to say that you escalated the situation, and should’ve just let him take the money and get out of there…What do you do? Or that you weren’t in danger because he was there to rob the business and not you…I guess you could pull your piece and try to give him verbal commands to “drop it”, but then you’ve potentially lost your element of surprise. You could let him rob the place, stand around, and hope he just leaves, but what if he doesn’t want the clerk or other witnesses to identify him later and shoots them on the way out?

[@mwilkinson5474]

Col. Jeff Cooper said don’t look like a victim and you won’t be a victim. Personal attitude and bearing is important. Mas Ayoob has stated “ if you want to avoid a gunfight don’t go where gunfights occur”sound advice.

[@nonyabiz9487]

Yes those are all important but there is 2 things all you are always missing and 2 things NO ONE ever talks about. Everyone thinks they are going to use there gun to do there talkin like some delusional macho man however what about your physical condition? If you aint eating right and excersiing and you get into one of these deadly situations you already LOST HALF the battle. Lots of people stroke out or have heart attacks and the perpetrator can just wallace up do a dance around your dying corpse and take your wallet with ease...