I like A-F.
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I like A-F.
I'd wait on gear...buy ammo, seek training. Then decide what to carry. I do recommend a getting a quality gun belt and holster
For me (this what works for me, maybe not for you)
- spare mag: (primarily) for the unlikely event of a malfunction of the primary mag; (second) more ammo
- cell phone: to me, this is a must if you're going to carry a gun
- small flashlight: it is something I always need, that others sometimes forget
- knife: it's another tool.
I also have a multi-tool and small first-aid kit in my bag; with a large medic bag in my car, and am trained to use it.
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Carry yourself in a respectful and non threatening manor. The second thing to carry is the memory that every action you take could effect the rest of your life. Either positively or more importantly, negatively.
You need to have the ability and wherewithal to know when and how to use tools other than deadly force if it is at all possible as circumstances dictate.
Last but maybe most important, you need to know in your heart that if deadly force is needed, you will respond with a level of unexpected violence that will leave no doubt in your attackers mind that they have fatally erred in the victim selection process.
A good gun belt is a smart investment too.
Recognize that your EDC kit will grow, adapt, and change as time goes on and you get a feel for your particular needs. Definitely train, and always ruthlessly ask if you have the right gear on you. Now, FOR ME, this is what I carry right now:
Situational Awareness and common sense
wallet
keys
cell phone (most important "tool" IMO)
pen (like Lima, I would love a tactical pen...right now I am broke so a Pilot G2 0.5mm is what I get)
pen knife (for opening stuff)
defensive folding knife...my Benchmade 730s Elishewitz is only used in defensive situations, not as a multitool :)
Tac light. I carry a small one in a belt holster
Gun (XD9sc with 13-round flush mag) and a spare mag (16 rounder)
I also keep my "hunting bag" in my truck with a lot of other stuff in it like a first aid kit and all that jazz.
I don't personally carry OC because my less lethal option is my kenpo training if I need it. That said, I have been considering some Sabre Red...
But as you have been told, you need to figure out what is best for you. I think gun, wallet, keys, cell phone are rock bottom minimum. Everything else is as your needs dictate.
Sound judgement, tenacity and your Carry Concealed License at all times.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Der Alte
:haha: This should just about cover it, but I'd add a less lethal option if possible. I carry a Kimber Pepper Blaster just incase; not every encounter will require, or warrant a bullet.
I carry a small stun gun in a cell phone case on my belt. For all the situations where I can't legally carry, it's better than nothing.
Memorize the number, or leave contact information with someone who you have arranged in advance to be your emergency contact and communicator and whose number you have memorized. If you get taken to jail you won't have access to your cell phone when you get to use the phone.Quote:
Originally Posted by apvbguy
I will hang up from 911 and call the lawyer before the cops even arriveQuote:
Originally Posted by Superhouse 15
What do you need when you carry?
Knowledge of your state laws and a healthy dose of common sense.
-firearm of your choice
-Spare mag, more to correct malfunctions than because you think you'll need more ammo, but the ammo is still nice to have
-flashlight, ON YOUR PERSON, not in the truck. if you're attacked in the dark, you need to be able to see before you shoot
-cell phone to call 911 (remember, the first person to call is the victim)
-CCW card
everything else is supplementary. first aid gear for yourself such as a tourniquet and gauze might be nice, but you can use your belt and t-shirt. Maybe leave the medical gear in the truck.
IMOHO, carrying less-lethal and a firearm at the same time is asking for trouble when the prosecution asks "why didn't you just OC/taze/baton him? you had the LTL equipment with you. you were out looking to kill someone."
I always carry my gun and an extra magazine. I am not afraid that 17 rounds of 9mm is less than adequate. It is mainly there incase the first mag fails in some way. Other than that my wallet, keys, cellphone, and pocket knife round out the package. The reason I carry a pocket knife is because it has a window break and a seat belt cutting tool.
As others have said the most important thing to carry is common sense and situational awareness. Be alert, be smart, and be polite. That will get you through 90% of life without a hitch.
My answer would be "why do cops carry OC/Tasers/Batons and firearms? Because certain situations demand certain levels of force." I think carrying LTL options proves how much you didn't want to kill someone.Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragon_Medic
See and if you DIDN'T have a less than lethal option I would think the prosecution would say, "He was just looking to kill someone, he didn't even have a less than lethal option"Quote:
Originally Posted by BRTCP88
Prosecutors job is to make you look guilty no matter how innocent you are so unfortunately they can try to make you out to be whoever they want and depending on how firearm familiar your jury is, it may not be that hard. Just my $.05 (inflation...)
And keep your middle finger sheathed. :image035:Quote:
Originally Posted by jwhite75
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragon_Medic
Agreed. Also, one of the nice high-intensity LED flashlights on the market now might de-escalate a situation fast. If you're in a fairly dark area (which is more likely to be the case if attacked), shining 100+ lumens directly in the eyes of your attacker might lead him staggering away unable to see. I've used this on aggressive dogs several times, they come to a complete stop and track me with hearing and nose alone, unsure of what to do with me, and generally wander off. Since humans aren't so good in the hearing and smell department, I figure that this is a good option. At least it will slow them down enough to get your pistol lined up properly.