A Gun Is Not Enough

In the context of self defense it is not enough just to carry some type of weapon on your persons. Self defense is more of a life style with many facets than just one particular aspect of defense. We often get the impression from people that we talk to, that having a concealed firearm, for example, make them safer in their day to day routine. We could not disagree more with that ideology. Let me give a short explanation.

Self defense is a life style in that it isn’t something that you put on in the morning, carry through the day, and then set on your night stand as you go to sleep. Realistically having a weapon is only a small part of the overall idea of self defense. It starts as a mindset such as awareness of your surroundings and avoidance of dangerous situations. Most criminals are looking for the distracted and vulnerable, easy prey. You must learn to be alert for potential crime and avoid areas or situations where crime would be more likely to take place, even if you are armed. I once stopped at a bank ATM to draw out a few dollars after pulling a 2nd shift at work when I notice a man standing nervously about twenty feet from the ATM. My first thought was could I take him if he tried something. Well, I decided not to chance it and just avoided the whole situation be driving further down the road to another bank. Even though I was carrying, avoiding the man is always the best option.

In a nutshell the individual serious about self defense uses their mind along with the other tools needed for a well rounded defense plan. Mindset, research, planning, weapon(s), frequent and realistic training, and skill development are essential for your survival in a critical incident. Be alert; take a few extra seconds to scan a gas station before getting out of your car, make sure you have your keys in your hand when walking out of the mall or Wal-Mart so you can scan ahead to your car without being distracted. Have a plan for home, office, or where ever you spend your time or plan to go. It will not take long to develop good habits of awareness and avoidance when you get the bigger picture of self defense. Don’t let your guard down. It is the moment you let your guard down that you are most vulnerable.