Very interesting Jeff. You bring up some excellent points. Each and every bad guy is different and you never know exactly what each will do. The idea is of self preservation. In most states, carrying a concealed weapon is against the law. If you are willing to risk going to jail for this offense, that is a different story.
Taking the offense out of the equation....I would most certainly bring a gun to a gunfight. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Do a little research about how long someone can live even after being fatally shot. Surprisingly, someone shot in the heart can live 30 seconds to a minute before dying. A head shot ends it abruptly though. In the minute timeframe, I can get off at least my full compliment of rounds (46) that I carry. How many will hit you? At least one! Hollywood did a poor job of depicting reality during gunfights. People get shot and fly back several feet. This does not happen. Physics won't allow it!
I love your fighting spirit Jeff. This is what makes America the greatest country in the world.
Semper Fi, David
Quote:
Originally posted by Jeff Higgins
Unfortunately, David, the monster is not always happy just to get your wallet. As a cop you know that. If that is all the guy wanted, and I was dead sure of that (pun intended) it would be a no-brainer to give it to him.
My point remains that given the choice between a gun and pepper spray, I feel there is no choice. Not for a citizen defending themselves. The situation is far different for a cop. You are forced to do things we are not by the very nature of your job. Non-lethal methods of subdual and restraint are important to your job. You guys must very often show a great deal of restraint in dealing with criminals and I very much respect you for that.
I don't believe citizens operate under the same sets of rules. When some cowardly criminal attacks, I feel the appropriate response is the most savage, brutal, surprising, startling counter attack you can muster. Overwhelming force, leaving the crook no chance whatsoever to respond. "Fair" should not enter into the equation at any time. Neither should sympathy and the resultant desire to not hurt them. They brought the fight to you; you did not ask for it or start it. There should be as little risk to you, and as much risk to them, as possible.
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