And I don’t agree with gun grabbers’ gleeful characterization of most CCW permit holders as “gun loons” itching for action. Are they looking for a fight? Personally, when I was I wasn’t. I’ve often wondered about the mindset of civilians who are armed to the teeth. More than that, the multi-perp-ready ensemble separated me psychologically from the unarmed citizens with whom I share my day-to-day life. To carry that stuff, I found myself purchasing clothing with less style than a pair of Brooks Brothers boxers with enough pockets to make a kangaroo troop jealous. When I tooled-up with all that full-size self-defense clobber, I felt weighed down. But the pursuit/attainment/implementation of maximum personal firepower comes at a price. 45s at my disposal than a lightweight revolver with five. Sure, if push came to shove, I’d rather have a big-ass gun with 30. But there’s danger in thinking that mo’ gun or mo’ guns is mo’ better. Risk assessment is yours for the making you can qualify on and carry a Smith & Wesson 500 as a backup gun s’il vous plait. If you want to be prepared for an attack by the entire Hells Angels Oakland Chapter, go for it. You may never need anything more than a couple of rounds of Critical Defense.

45, two spare magazines and a backup gun-and still get your ass killed. I’ve come to realize that you can carry an entire arsenal-cell phone, tactical flashlight, pepper spray, knife. The thing is, I’m beginning to develop an appreciation for the limits of armed self-defense. I wear a Ramora inside-the-waistband holster with a lightweight ported Gemini Customs’ Smith & Wesson 642 revolver, mit laser grip- until I can find an inside-the-waistband holster that will comfortably accomodate the Glock 30 or my forthcoming Wilson Combat Bill Wilson Carry 1911. Meanwhile, do I feel “under-gunned”? Yes, I do.

Smith e wesson 342pd