[fred cook]

Only one time in my life have I prevented a situation from deteriorating by having a pistol in my hand. And, in my case it was enough for the other party to see it and have a change of heart. I also never pointed it at the other person, just let it be seen. If the (big) other person had attacked would I have used it? Probably but glad I did not have to find out. I have had many road rage occurrences happen over the almost 60 years I have been driving but have managed to get away each time without any severe consequences. However, I will say that I carry a weapon in my car, especially when travelling. It is out of sight, accessible and large enough caliber to do the job.
There are also times that I conceal carry (with license) but I use an inside the waistband type holster and it is never exposed or in view. I guess the bottom line is to do what you have to do but with consideration of the s**t you could get yourself into!