Why Open Carry is Ineffective

November 04, 2017

Whether you are planning on carrying a gun to protect yourself and/or loved ones, you should still take a concealed carry class. Only by learning more about a subject can one be in a position to make an informed decision on such an important topic. The topic of guns is no different.

While it is true that Ohio is an open carry state, open carry provides no advantages over concealed carry. For one, it provides no tactical advantage against a threat. If a criminal sees that you are carrying a gun, his first reaction will be to disable you first. After all, even a criminal wants to get back home safe at the end of his "workday." 

A tactical advantage is only attained when it is coupled with a surprise response. Thinking that he has the advantage over his would-be victim(s) may cause a criminal to drop his guard, thereby providing the potential victim an opportunity to respond appropriately to prevent  bodily harm to himself and others.

Secondly, in many communities (i.e. Cleveland, Lorain, Columbus, etc.) open carry will cause unnecessary turmoil with those unfriendly to or afraid of guns. In most cases, the police will be called and you may be questioned or even be arrested for inciting panic or other disturbance. In the end, you will win, but it may cost you money in lost hours at work or attorneys fees to help you meander the legal hurdles.

Learning more about guns and the law will put you in a better position to make an informed decision concerning gun ownership and whether concealed carry is an option for you. Only when preconceived notions are scrutinized with truth can your decisions be knowledge based.

You are the only one responsible for your actions, so learn all you can about guns. Then make the decision that best suits your life and family circumstances.