Why I STOPPED Carrying a Gun and Restarted

[@bigdingus3572]

This is what I wish a lot of bigger gun channels would do. I feel like many of them treat guns and concealed carry like a car and don’t often tackle the fact that we don’t live in a diehard movie.

[@bruceh3707]

This is the most underrated gun related channel out there. Your delivery represents a clearly objective point of view delivered with a non-demeaning tone. Your content is more relevant and informative to the more common issues of concealed carry than anyone out there. In my humble opinion most other channels are overly focusing on the glory topics like drawing and shooting as fast as possible, how to clear a room, etc. While I watch and enjoy that other content and I believe it is also relevant, the reality for most folks is: step 1- the challenge of making daily carrying more convenient so that we carry more often, step 2 - avoiding trouble in the 1st place step 3 - being able discern when is the appropriate time to bring a weapon into play, accounting for proper threat/target identification, what other risks are/may be present etc, step 4 - technique quick draw, accurate shot placement and maneuvering, step 5 - post incident behavior and process. In reality most of use never experience a situation requiring step 4. I understand people have to make money and chasing the view counts drives content. I gobble that stuff up too, but if someone is new to concealed carry scratching their head about how do I carry this thing, your channel is awesome at that. Thank you so much for providing content that adds to the complete reality of conceal carry and I hope you and your channel continue to succeed.

[@tessahbooth]

Thank you so much! That was really encouraging to read, and I'm so glad you enjoy the content I'm making here :)

[@Wildwestwrangler]

Bruce, I don't think anyone could have written it any better!!!

[@robertivey3268]

I am going to make sure my wife and her sister watch this video. It is very well stated and brings to light all the things that we should all be thinking about every time we carry. Very well done.

[@barneypeterson]

I'm so glad you addressed this topic. I took an extended break from CC back when I had my first kid 11 years ago. I made the right choice. I simply didn't have the energy to put into carrying safely with kids crawling all over me and had zero time for training. Now that my 4th kiddo is almost 6, I've changed up my gear and setup, done some training and started carrying again. It's ok to take a break.

[@shuumai]

Did you carry any alternate tools? Kubaton, pepper spray, knife?

[@DavidRodriguez-bq7ve]

You took a break from being able to defend yourself and your children....🤔

[@ladymushroom9485]

I really do appreciate this video, thank you so much. I feel like this is a really important conversation that many people are afraid to have.

[@lister265]

Thank you for addressing the realities of gun ownership and concealed carry. So often we gloss over the important stuff and just focus on the cool factor. Carrying is a huge responsibility, it’s not for everyone. And it’s certainly not for the untrained. I really appreciate your take on this. Keep up the good work.

[@clairecunn83]

YES! ALL of this! You are the best, most educated, well-rounded voice in CC right now. Big fan, here. Thank you!

[@timsmith8506]

DON’T CHANGE A SINGLE WORD!!!! And never stop spreading this message. You gave an excellent example of what RESPONSIBLE gun ownership and concealed carry is. There are people with the same thoughts and fears and your analysis will help them. There are people that have no experience with guns and are afraid of them and part of that fear stems from their perception that no gun owners are having these conversations with themselves to make the decision. Your video will help them gain a different perspective. I absolutely LOVE how you spoke to the continued training that comes along with firearms. This video is 100% perfect in every single way. Anyone watching it will hopefully share it with friends/family! Thank you for such an honest video.

[@freeshrugs1]

I deeply respect the way you think about the responsibility that is CC. It isn't the game that some take it for. Good for you for having a mindset that will keep you and your family truly safe. Also puppy.

[@dasgespenst979]

Situational awareness is key to carrying concealed. Being ready and assessing quickly, any situation that unfolds is a necessity. Most of us in the 2A community have a heightened sense of self evaluation and what we are capable of. It's always okay to reevaluate your mental capacity. Im glad you're a quick learner! Like John Lovell says, "train smart and train hard"

[@jtec99]

Situational awareness you had at the grocery store was impeccable. Last thing I'd ever want to do would be hurt an innocent bystander.

[@champy1210]

Last thing I’d ever want to do is nothing while a loved one or other innocent is violated or killed.

[@jtec99]

@@champy1210 that should go without saying

[@chrisf247]

Some folks act like you're paranoid for thinking about these situations, but I think considering what you would do in the most likely scenarios is essential.

[@JVIPER88]

There is an element of paranoia to it, when you consider all of the possible ways you may get injured or die in your daily life, but only in these specific instances do you take excessive precautions. As a whole, the world is not out to get you. Of course ppl should be aware of their surroundings to a degree, but there's a limit at which it goes from being useful to being a waste of energy.

[@chrisf247]

@@JVIPER88 I'm saying if you're going to carry you should think about the likely situations in which you would need to use your ccw and choose tools/methods accordingly. No one is forcing you to carry or to do any of this, of course.

[@TheEclectic]

Hands down the best produced 'gun' channel on youtube. I enjoy watching for the aesthetics alone, but the content is fantastic as well.

[@JehuMartin]

Great message. Thanks for addressing this. Doing a lot of training, especially some force on force scenario training (even Airsoft) and using simulators helped me realize how little I knew and then helped me improve. You are right that it’s a huge responsibility when you carry. One of the biggest factors is learning how to stay calm under stress. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do want to continue to train and push yourself to achieve a good level of competence and confidence. Thank you.

[@healthandbeauty101]

I just want to give kudos to your husband or whoever is doing your camera work and video editing for all your videos. My wife tried the KZbin thing several years back and I was the one doing all the camera work, the video editing, making sure there was sufficient lighting, etc. It was all very time consuming and frustrating at times. I don’t regret doing it cuz I learned a lot and we now have some beautiful videos to look back on. I just hope you don’t get discouraged by the low viewership and that you find all of this worth your time and effort. I have a feeling your channel will take off all of a sudden when you least expect it.

[@tessahbooth]

Thank you, I appreciate it! I do all the lighting, filming and editing, and it is certainly a TON of work!

[@Strawman333]

Hami, did you get your foot out of your mouth yet?

[@ghodge82]

@@Strawman333 😂 😂 🙌🏻

[@gregggibson3109]

No need to feel sorry for expressing your opinion, thoughts, or story. Thanks for taking the time to share your insights; carrying is a HUGE responsibility and no one should take it lightly…

[@tyd22]

Excellent commentary. CC is a huge responsibility that shouldnt be taken lightly. Situational awareness and proper training with your firearm is the key. If you're carrying, every room/area that you walk into you should quickly assess your situation including the individuals around you, exits/areas for cover in case you're ever put into a defensive situation. And always keep a round chambered, in a high stress you wont have time or remember to rack your slide

[@raspberrychai]

I actually stopped carrying for a while this summer. My only option was the cancan bellyband which I felt was unsafe (partly due to your videos and also my own observations. Also, it was too hot for jeans and a belt. I started carrying again when my enigma arrived.

[@cdlady54_95]

Appreciate the honesty. Other people that carry and are super aggressive on carrying can make us doubt ourselves, if we let them. We each must stand for ourselves, where we are spiritually, mentally and emotionally. No harm in it at all. Thank you for sharing and be safe.

[@crashtestcal6484]

I love your contributions. So very thoughtful and insightful! There is so much great information on your channel. So thank you.

[@MC-yp2tn]

Excellent video. Thank you so much for the balanced point of view and thoughtful advice.

[@adamb2619]

These are the perfect stories that we all need to hear. Thanks for sharing!

[@iiamdtrainingacademy]

Great video! I relay to everyone I instruct in my classes if you don't train consistently and often please don't carry, if you are not going to make carry a part of your daily life don't carry, most important practice and train how you carry. Other items people don't consider is are you ready to deal with the repercussions post self defense shooting, possible jail time and possible financial hardships after a self shooting. Again great video and these are topics that need to surface on these platforms.

[@Kathymorganhartz]

Thank you, it's nice to know I'm not the only one. I know I need more training and continue training for my own safety.

[@nrbrown5985]

I stopped carrying for a while this year. I’ve been carrying for over 7 years but a sudden medical problem made me take a break. I could’ve continued carrying but it would’ve been pointless. I’m recovered and back at it now. There’s nothing wrong with acknowledging your limitations.

[@SpiritWind777]

This is exactly what happened to me. I have a shoulder injury and went to the range for practice. My aim was off and it hurts to shoot. I wish I would have stopped at that point but continued to “practice.” I got home and put my firearm away.

[@beccam7298]

Similar thing here. I'm having a medical issue that's led to a lot of dizziness. It's not as though it's going to mystically come out of my Enigma if I'm dizzy, but if I were in a dangerous situation, I honestly would be better off with my POM than my Sig if I had one of those dizzy spells hit. I've caught flack for not carrying right now from a couple of friends, and that's okay. I'd rather feel confident and comfortable in my day to day.

[@Jax0319]

Amazing, awesome topic. Crazy people out there, training is the key, thank you.

[@traciaxtell4553]

Thanks so much for sharing. When I talked to my brother he was mad that I wasn't caring after I got my concealed carry permit. I told him I wasn't in the right mind set yet, it's a responsibility that I didn't feel taking on safely yet. He didn't like it. My niece who was almost 17 than told me that she agreed with me. I told her well you know what you dad feels so don't get your permit till your ready than. Thanks again

[@Being_Joe]

Bought my first gun this week. When the sales guy at the store asked if I wanted ammo I told him I was going to hold off untill I was comfortable with the gun and got some training. Also. told my wife I was not just going go get a gun but that I would get proper training and learn how to use it. Last thing I need is something going wrong because "I know what i'm doing."

[@WELL-WELL-WELL69]

This is quality content. I’ve had the same debate with myself on this topic. Overall it comes down to each person’s situation and I support both sides 💯

[@mark7994]

I appreciate your message and points regarding this subject. I too believe that it is very important for anyone not to push themselves or be influenced to carry if they feel like they are unsure. It's a huge responsibility. I stopped carrying for a while too after coming to the same realizations but luckily took some training. It gave me the confidence to try again. I now feel strange if I don't have my gun with me.

[@TheLonster59]

Such a good topic and so well discussed. I applaud you for bringing that to light. Thank you

[@haroldjohnson2041]

Spot on! if you have not decided that you can take a life (of a bad guy) to preserves yours or others do not carry. Do not delude yourself that you will only scare them with your g u n. then practice and a develop a mine set and determine to look beyond the danger (what if I miss, do not draw your g u n, until you know this information). You explained that well. Thankfully a Small Town Police Chief spent a couple of hours with me a long time ago and we went over these point.

[@erickcastro2048]

I totally agree with your assessment, carrying a firearm is a huge responsibility that has to be coupled with tons of training in the use of the tool itself and in the knowledge of when to use it legally!

[@mathewburgos3]

This is what being an adult is about, great on you for being self aware. Also the look you gave that coffee was absolutely hilarious. Take care!

[@jpabe9321]

So this was timed well. I shot John Correia's ASP 10-Round Skill Check today. Scores are based on times and points and are ranked 0-100, with a score of 0-25 being highly indicative that the shooter should seek training before committing to carrying a firearm. I think it's cool that a drill developed by a reputable instructor has a skill level that says, "You probably shouldn't carry until you master some basic skills first." It ties in well with this video because the shooting community gets so wrapped up in everyone having the right to bear arms, that they loose sight of the fact that not everyone should tote a gun - whether for lack of skill or not being mentally prepared for the responsibility - and rather than shaming those people that choose not to carry we should be patient, accepting, and encouraging of them.

[@GUNMETALGUYUSA]

Video hit home. Got some thinking to do. Mission accomplished.

[@communicationiskey-]

Excellent personal concealed carry assessment video and topic 👍

[@wrx399]

Self Awareness is a strength. It takes a very disciplined individual to recognize their weaknesses, and then to address them. I give you a boatload of credit for seeking training, and for making this video. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, but never Carried a pistol. I have applied for my CCW permit. It’s a long wait here in NY. Unfortunately hands on training is just not possible til I get my permit. In the meantime though, I am watching as many videos as possible. Researching different firearms, Familiarizing myself with gun laws, researching holsters, and accessories. Watching videos of attorneys, and reading as much related material as possible. Once I get my permit, I plan on spending as much time at the range as possible. I also plan on getting as much training as possible before I begin to carry. I really enjoy your videos. Keep them coming. Thank you!

[@TheLaughinginthedark]

I 100 percent agree and you've changed my perspective. I am getting my CC but until I feel I am ready won't carry

[@andresanchez7049]

I'm a new gun owner and ever since I started training with my firearm, there was one question that kept on bugging me day in and day out: How do I know when I am ready to conceal carry? There is so much more to take into consideration than how you draw and aim, it can seem overwhelming. You want to make the right choice at the right time and hopefully your actions in the end show what you desire. Thanks for this video, helped me more to understand it is ok to take a step back and reflect on yourself on what is truly important.

[@champy1210]

Seek out competent, qualified training ASAP, and then carry ASAP. While I understand this woman’s fears, logic yielded to emotion here. Carry at all times, everywhere. The only time it needs to come out is if there is a lethal threat, forcible felony, imminent risk of serious bodily injury, and a few others.

[@andresanchez7049]

@@champy1210 I think her logic is what helped her to understand that she wasn't read. If her emotions blinded her, she would of kept carrying despite the obvious gaps she felt about carrying. Thank you for your input, much appreciated.

[@mogill7279]

Thanks for this really important message. It’s absolutely essential that we take the responsibility of CC to heart. No one who practices CC should ever do it without putting a great deal of thought and actual handgun practice into it. We’ve got to sure we have both the technical skills and mental approach in place before we ever put a gun on our hip and venture out into a community filled with both potential threats and innocent bystanders.

[@Radvous]

Taking a break from carrying to clear mental bog is a smart thing to do. Not having head space to carry can absolutely be harmful. Once you feel ready to carry again, Active Self Protection is a mountain of stuff to learn from, T.Rex Arms is a great source to learn how to shoot as well. Both are excellent YT channels.

[@eddaly4160]

Great video...your questions/doubts are really a prerequisite to carrying...we get too bogged down on the equipment issues... I think you have to set up your own rules of engagement that you are comfortable with...most people put it off and never do the internal review.

[@oso1248]

You always have to remember the soldier’s first right, exercised in his sole discretion… to not shoot… you have that right also. I’d recommend a book by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman - On Killing, The psychological Cost of Learning to Kill In War and Society.

[@DoubleQz]

Thank you for the video on CC that brings up aspects that i have thought about as well. New subscriber now.

[@stellatedodin656]

Really, truly a great video. Being aware of your surroundings if paramount in a defensive situation - carrying or not. And the training that it takes to be proficient not only in carrying a weapon, but identifying potential threats, identifying bystanders, and the multitude of other factors that need to go into any potential self-defense situation cannot be understated in their importance. I'm glad you advocated so well for the idea of training, training, and more training. EDC'ing a firearm is not for everyone, and there is no shame in that either. It's a choice that should not come easily. But should come with a strong understanding of it's implications.

[@ubolillo73]

There are times it is nice to come home, lock it up and breath. I did lots of mental preparing for several months before I started to carry and I continue to learn daily. I push through the training daily while I am in my safe zone so that I will be ready if my family and I are ever in a situation I would need to defend them.

[@jordanmullenhopkins]

Finally got my permit. My uncle (LEO) is doing training with me. We both agreed I wouldn't start to everyday CC until I can pass his Departments Shooting Qual. We made this agreement because of how the social interaction is in our state (MA) not being friendly towards 2A.

[@CenlaSelfDefenseConcepts]

I started carrying June 2009 the one guy in our area that did the permit class ran a diploma mill he gave me zero instruction took my money and gave me a cert I was 21 and legally carrying with nothing but practice on my own. March 2012 I had one rifle class under my belt but no additional handgun training I was attacked by a dog fired 8 shots (2 4 round strings) i hit the dog once I was able to avoid any legal complications recognized that I needed to get better two weeks later I took a point shooting class and I've been taking at least a class a year ever since I started shooting USPSA in 2016 I found an instructor last year that does training with SIRT guns, knives and concealed carry specific combatives I train with him 2 days a week

[@theskeptictank]

I play scenarios in my head, mainly how to verbalize and de-escalate. This is too often paid lip service, too infrequently trained - in a majority of Martial Arts spaces: the places where it needs to be trained the most

[@meredithpeterson62]

I appreciate this video! I've been carrying for a couple months but not all the time. I usually carry when I'm going to multiple places in a single trip. I have a 10 year old special needs son. My son is part of the reason I started with CCW. It's my job to protect him at all times but I'm very careful with my gun around him. I've tried looking for other parents of special needs kids who carry but hit only dead ends. As a very petite woman and special needs mom, the multiple different struggles I face with CCW make me more aware about my surroundings. There's always so much to learn and think about!

[@metlica17]

Always appreciate your insight.🙏🏼

[@cct566]

Great advice. I teach basic and intermediate pistol classes and still train regularly as well as shoot in concealed carry matches.. Self defense situations seldom arise when or how you expect them to and training is your best defense.

[@Serjenga]

Mindset is everything. There’s so much more that goes into gun ownership and carrying than people realize. I had this conversation with myself before I purchased my first handgun. Was I ready to take on the responsibility on potentially taking a life if I was in that position? I was able to answer by trusting in my martial arts experience and other stress induced training that I have exposed myself to. I trust that my threshold for stress might be higher than the average civilian and my ability to defend myself could guide me through making a more calculated decision. It’s a lifestyle for sure.

[@rickbrown315]

I've spent 33 year carrying. It's a big responsibility. If you're fighting with the question of "can I use deadly force" than I would say don't carry. There are other options that are less leathal (pepper spray) for one. My biggest issue for not carrying is "it's slim to none that I will ever need to use it" and it's a pain to have that extra weight on my hip. But I carry anyway, "I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it". Any rate it's good to question carrying and it's not for everyone take the time to learn the laws, become proficient with the operation of your firearm, and practice firing as often as you can. It's muscle memory that will save your life. Great topic!

[@annreinbeau]

Very timely and you echo my thoughts. I need training. I need to think through scenarios. Thank you.

[@kracksmith4ejm1]

thanks for sharing and would be nice to hear some negligent discharge stories to learn and avoid.

[@v.german11b]

True wisdom. Thank you for sharing.

[@CoreyRoderick-wo3se]

Always a fan!! Great video makes me think

[@domenik8339]

Amazing video and viewpoints, gonna be recommending this one to people for a while. Best takeaway is that carrying a gun alone is not adequate, not is just the most basic form of training. My grandma carries and has for years. We aren't particularly close, but she knows I carry as well and once asked me what I thought of her carrying. She was surprised when I told her I'd rather she didn't! She only shoots maybe twice a year, likely has no concept of 'know what's behind your target' 'cover v concealment,' 'wait your turn' etc. Someone like that is better off either getting more training and owning their lack of knowledge or just giving up together. Nobody in their right mind half learns how to drive a car and says 'good enough.' It's an all or nothing situation, cause lives are on the line.

[@tshep1174]

Maryland restricts who can carry (need to own an LLC, have a security clearance, or be a part of church security) but, if you meet those, their training requirements are intensive. 16 hours with marksmanship requirements. The training I went to even had role players enact different self-defense scenarios. The scenarios were a game changer. They revealed many of my flaws and showed me the weight of responsibility I was signing up for when I carry a gun. It's something I think everyone needs to do at some point if you're going to carry a firearm.

[@ratkins3332]

Appreciate your thoughts and perspective on this topic...

[@tbeiber09]

I think people do this more often than not. Especially in the beginning just like you. I did because it wasn't comfortable and I could really notice some holes in my holster/belt setup. Once I upgraded those, I noticed a huge difference and started carrying more consistently. I think it's just a part of concealed carry that just happens

[@generallee5609]

No offense intended, none taken. Great, honest. Thank you. I’ve similar thoughts. Taking classes helps.

[@myvids20121984]

I can understand why you feel that way. Great video

[@da.reverend]

I come for you and your videos, Tessah, and I love them, including this one. But. PUPPY! ❤️❤️❤️

[@oruwatching]

Good video, good advice. I'm sure you know, you are under NO obligation to get involved in any situation. No one that carries has to be a hero. Many people will only act if their family or themselves are being threatened.

[@gkholtin]

You stoping yourself from carrying is really good it is my belief that if you don't have the knowledge or training to do so then you should not carry, 90% of the time pulling your gun out is the worst thing you could do. And if your not prepared to take a life for yourself or others than leave you gun at home!

[@VanHellsing12]

Anyone ill confident should not carry.

[@Chuckletz1]

im in ny and hoping the supreme court case comes back in our favor and ill be able to CC . just wanted to thank you for few aspects that i had not thought about if and when i am able to CC

[@ee222]

what a gorgeous german shepherd! oh, and the video was great too! 😀

[@anniem8194]

Good idvice!! I appreciate your videos!!

[@erikshay91]

I think is something that should come along with being a responsible gun owner. Which is to acknowledge and understand how much training and discipline you really have. You really don’t know or understand unless your actually put in a real world situation, then that’s when you think about all of the consequences and repercussions that come along with owning a gun. I’m still developing my situational awareness as well and learning to be ready if the time ever comes. PS I also use a G48 for concealed carry!

[@williamthompson2859]

We as people who carry need to remember that if we are forced to shoot, we will NOT be treated as heroes. We will be hauled into court and treated like vigilantes. And shooting in defense of others who are not immediate members of our family is a very grey area. And of course, we need to be extra concerned about innocent bystanders being hit by stray bullets. If they are just taking money from the register and then leaving. I will do nothing. Each situation must be handled on it's own merit. Personal decisions for sure.

[@seandrolet4559]

Thanks for addressing this!

[@reker.a5790]

Keep training and keeping that mind open

[@Marc_Wolfe]

Your coffee setup is... nuts, especially for a lightly coffee-ed glass of milk lol ... probably amazing though.

[@robertdunlap5994]

Very different take on concealed carry. Thought provoking. Can’t say that I disagree with any point you made. Concealed carry is not for everyone. There’s no shame for anyone who chooses not to carry. We all have choices to make. Choices can have consequences both good and bad. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@rosejanae7023]

👏 Good stuff! I completely agree.

[@Thecatnamedkiwi]

I have a question, before you started carrying had you ever shot or been around firearms before?

[@Fullyautomagic]

Never give up. Never surrender.

[@neilfulcher9298]

Well said, with rights come responsibilities! If you don't know legally when you can shoot. If you don't know when shooting will endanger innocent bystanders. If you can't absolutely hit what you are shooting at, when drawing from your concealed holster, even under extreme duress. Then you should question your readiness to carry a firearm in public.

[@tonyn152]

Excellent video! Tell it like it is!

[@sacredheartdoodles]

I want more info on that brewing mechanism

[@johnshields9110]

It is good you have done or are beginning again, a mental evaluation of situations you might face and be tempted/requred to use your own handgun for self defense or defense of others. Even as someone who has been in the military and a campus police officer, when to point a gun at someone or consider using it, is not an easy decision. I hope I would 'just know' when that was correct after not having any authority of cover my actions. Also, what you carry may determine when you take affective action. I stepped across a larger fast serving McD's one night, and the personal weapon I was carrying was not the one I wanted for a 50 ft defensive shot, versus just ducking out the door. Please remember, people intent on robbery or mayhew don't give a hoot about distances, damages or potential blood shed; these two previous facts have given me pause to train even more, and increase the barrel length and round count of my carry pistol.

[@whomagoose6897]

"Gotta know your limitations", Inspector Calihan.

[@jasonpanto]

Simple answer don't shoot unless your life is in danger

[@tessahbooth]

Yes, of course, but there’s a whole lot more to carrying a gun than that 😊

[@metaleggman18]

All this says to me is you have a real respect for firearms. Too many people who cc or even just own firearms with some idea of self defense have no clue the real legal liabilities, not to mention the human liabilities, to doing either. I honestly think, if you don't have the same kind of training a cop does for de-escalation and carrying a weapon, you shouldn't carry nor use a weapon, let alone a gun, for self defense.

[@metaleggman18]

This is part of why the NY gun Supreme Court case bothers me. I think anyone should be able to conceal carry, but there needs to be a real duty to get people to understand that guns aren't magical self defense devices, that you're not John Wayne or James bond just because you have a gun, and that you absolutely need training. After all, conceal carrying should essentially make you a special class of citizen, and that fairly requires an extra burden on someone wanting to conceal carry. I get having emergency conceal carry permits for some situations like domestic violence cases, but I generally think having licenses and real, honest, and comprehensive requisite training would not only make the public safer, but it would also make gun owners safer. We already realize that police are human, prone to error, and make bad choices, usually due to inadequate training (thanks largely to the types of reactive, war-like training that started in the 80s through for profit police training companies who had ins with police unions). If police officers have these issues, then frankly, without even as much training, or at least similar training, how would an armed civilian be able to truly and honestly carry safely? Both for themselves and for the people around them? Guns are tools built to kill, whether and animal, a human, in self dense, in war, etc. If someone doesn't have a healthy respect for that, there's no telling what danger they would be to themselves or others.

[@seethebutter]

thanks

[@gregmccarter3243]

Hell to the no ...the way the world is right now i carry everywhere.....but i do understand

[@iglives4150]

But first let me crab some coffee, clean my room, eat my breakfast, use the restroom and oh hey I’m back let’s start the video, wait a moment is that coffee I smell brb guys.

[@ciscokidkid6580]

I carry when I need to but I also have none lethal at hand.

[@EricPardo]

great honest take

[@utooberrookie]

NST = Never Stop Training

[@panpiper]

You didn't offend me at all. If you are going to carry a firearm, you have a responsibility to know how and when you should use it and be competent with it. If you aren't in that space, you probably should wait until you are before you start.

[@DJJammyJams]

This is why all the MIL social media guys say to train, train, train. You are useless without training as with anything in life. I didn’t watch the whole video, but signing up for tactical training and joining different MIL and LE pistol and defense classes help a lot.

[@tessahbooth]

Those classes can be helpful, but law enforcement encounters tend to differ greatly from civilian self defense encounters, so it's a good idea to also seek out classes geared towards civilians :)

[@amb158]

I’ve definitely had the long existential thoughts about if it really came down to brass tacks, would I be able to do what I needed to do? At the end of the day, yes, I believe I would. I think everyone has these thoughts. And I think that everyone has also seen a situation in front of them that was major pucker factor. I know I have had situations where I am seeing something that could seriously take a hard left really quick if one person just said the wrong word, and it makes you sweat. It’s not often but I’ve dealt with it. You’re like, “holy fuck.. is this it? This can’t be it. Please don’t let this be it.” The couple times I’ve experienced it I walked away and almost blew chunks over it. Not because I was afraid of having to pull my gun, i was in a constant state of mad anxiety for an extended period of time that when I finally was able to relax I had no idea how to flush out that anxiety. Maybe that’s just me as someone that’s struggled with anxiety my entire adult life, but that’s a scary thing having to stand and wonder for 10-15 minutes about whether this will be it or not is hard, not only thinking about what this is going to turn into, but also thinking about at what point do you pull, thinking about every single movement you’re going to make so it’s flawless when you do make the movements, and every single possible outcome floating through your mind, Idk if anyone else has felt this way, so if not, I guess I’m just nuts.

[@Strawman333]

Don't let one scenario out of thousands keep you from carrying.

[@tessahbooth]

It wasn't the scenario, it was becoming aware that I was not prepared to defend myself with that particular tool, and a realization that I needed more training before being able to responsibly carry a gun.

[@Strawman333]

@@tessahbooth My apologies for the misunderstanding. Love the channel.

[@JVIPER88]

So, if you are in a store, and someone comes in to rob the cashier, would you pull your gun out?

[@enicoli345]

What type of classes would you recommend? I’ve been looking at concealed carry ones but idk if those are just specific to getting a permit or if they’re useful in walking you through what to do once you’ve drawn your gun.

[@tessahbooth]

That mostly depends on current skill level. If someone has zero training then it would be a good idea to get into a basic beginners course to get safety and fundamentals down. Besides that, my favorite class to recommend to anyone and everyone is John Murphys (FPF Training) Street Encounter Skills and Tactics two day class. John travels all over the country all year long, so he's bound to come within a few hours drive of most people, and he puts on an absolutely outstanding course for anyone looking to carry a gun for self defense.

[@enicoli345]

@@tessahbooth awesome! Thank you so much! My ex was a cop so I have the firearm safety down pretty well and have been to the range, cleaned my gun etc. I’ll look into this class! Thank you:)