A comment from Col. Grossman on the targeting of victims

[tacman605]

Recently a comment was posted that I couldn't agree with more "The way you carry yourself and not the fact you carry a weapon is what will make a bad guy pause". Here is a comment from Col. Grossman on that very topic and although he uses the term which I personally can't stand, sheepdog, it fits perfectly.

There was research conducted a few years ago with individuals convicted of violent crimes. These cons were in prison for serious, predatory acts of violence: assaults, murders and killing law enforcement officers. The vast majority said that they specifically targeted victims by body language: slumped walk, passive behavior and lack of awareness. They chose their victims like big cats do in Africa..., when they select one out of the herd that is least able to protect itself.

However, when there were cues given by potential victims that indicated they would not go easily, the cons said that they would walk away. If the cons sensed that the target was a "counter-predator," that is, a sheepdog, they would leave him alone unless there was no other choice but to engage.

Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, On Combat

If you look like a victim you will be treated as such. One of the reasons NYPD's decoy unit is so successful is that they have the look of an easy victim down pat. The bad guy just like was stated about the big cats cannot resist an easy meal.

No matter how you carry be aware of your surroundings, make eye contact with people, think about what is going on around you, if it does not look or feel right it probably isn't. In a parking lot take a moment to scan the areas around you before you get out of the car. Take a second look as you get out and stand up and take a final look as you reach the rear, or front depending on direction of travel, and leave the safety of your vehicle.

A person intent on causing you harm will notice these actions and may decide to wait for someone else to come along.

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[slugger6]

A good post! Thanks for sharing.

[retsupt99]

Good tips...

[Harryball]

[rammerjammer]

Good advice

[First Sgt]

In the book Warrior Mindset, by Brad Thor, Michael J. Asken, Lt Col Dave Grossman and Loren Christensen, there is a quote used in the very beginning, by a man named Benjamin Disraeli.... The quote went like this: "The secret of success in life is for a man to be ready for his time when it comes" ... I firmly believe that applies right along with Tacman's OP. You must continually TRAIN to be ready...Training not only includes Tactics, Skill, and the ability to run your weapon, but more importantly MINDSET and AWARENESS...JMO

[BkCo1]

I walk down the street like I own it and look everybody over.

[ANGLICO]

Beware that there are certain times when 'the look' will do what you need, but the 'stare down' becomes a challenge (especially in gang territory). Yes, presenting yourself as a hard target is a very good approach.

Thanks for posting.

[F350_6]

Good advice, but keep in mind that desperate times call for desperate measures. If a druggie needs his fix and you're the only one around, then it doesn't really matter how you present yourself. Likewise, if you're specifically targeted due to what you are carrying, what you drive, where you are, etc., then things can still get ugly.

I think how you present yourself is very useful, but being aware is more important.

[Ram Rod]

I completely agree. I've been meaning to get the book on killing. Might just do that tonight.

[ccw9mm]

They chose their victims like big cats do in Africa..., when they select one out of the herd that is least able to protect itself.

Though only one aspect, it's certainly a big part of preparedness: avoiding being seen as a weak member of the group, looking like defenseless food.

[mlr1m]

Beware that there are certain times when 'the look' will do what you need, but the 'stare down' becomes a challenge (especially in gang territory). Yes, presenting yourself as a hard target is a very good approach.

Thanks for posting.

I am in full agreement with this. There is a fine line that a person must not step over as some folks do take a direct stare as a provocation. You have to appear as aware but not look as though you are challenging anyone.

Michael

[atctimmy]

I am in full agreement with this. There is a fine line that a person must not step over as some folks do take a direct stare as a provocation. You have to appear as aware but not look as though you are challenging anyone.

Michael

That is where the slow head nod comes in. It says "I see you and acknowledge you" all at the same time.

[tacman605]

You are correct there is that fine line. Acknowledge the people around you but don't go to the point of antagonizing them.

[Bill MO]

I don't know that I try to show any attitude other than that of confidence, not a challenge but confidence and not any fear. Even though I may be shaking in my boots, don't let it show.

Be aware and confident in your ability,