Does carrying a gun make you safer, or make you a target?

[Rakehellion]

It makes you safer. But this ain't Iraq, so I'll take my chances with fists.

 

[BurnItDwn]

It's situational.

For example, if you are in the Yukon and you are a fur trapper as your profession, and you will be out and about in the woods for a season or two with your dog(s), you would be completely insane to go without a gun. The gun will reduce your risk of starvation significantly, it will also reduce your risk of death by bear.

If you are a child in a city, then carrying a gun increases your risk of accidentally shooting yourself, it also increases the risk of accidentally shooting somebody else.

In general, it's unnecessary to carry a gun in areas with medium population density.

In areas with very high population density, it's probably a good idea to carry a gun due to the overcrowding causing peoples attitudes to run hot. (Inner cities that have high crime)

In areas with very low popluation density, it may be a good idea to carry a gun to keep yourself protected from nature/elements. (middle of nowhere where you may be at risk of getting eaten or starving to death)

 

[Newell Steamer]

Open carry, surface to air missiles, all the way, BRAH!!

 

[Leyawiin]

I'd say decreases only because I don't know that the hell I'm doing with a gun. Between the panic of the situation and my ineptitude I'd probably just make matters worse.

I know - don't use reason. All the Harry Callahan's on the board are sure they'd be able to react calmly and precisely - and instead would probably end up like the guy in the Vegas Walmart.

 

[corwin]

I'd say decreases only because I don't know that the hell I'm doing with a gun. Between the panic of the situation and my ineptitude I'd probably just make matters worse.

Then by all means, please don't carry a gun...but your ineptitude doesn't apply to myself and others