I've learned that people are most comfortable with what they are most familiar with and typically don't like change (including
that change). While that sounds rather simplistic and obvious, it is often lost on people from various perspectives because of a fear of the unknown.
I frequent another state's respective forum that does not restrict OC in their state. I often find myself amused by their ability trumpet that they have OC and Texas does not (or a reference to printing being illegal here
). Then I read their OC section and learn about who got stopped by the police today and got it all on their voice recorder (apparently necessary to carry as well). They are exercising their rights and blazing the way for the acceptance of OC, which I commend, but having OC does not make one state "better" than another IMO. I am not bashing OC, in fact I believe that it should be legal. I am simply pointing out that OC doesn't mean as much in the grand scheme of things.
On the other state's forum, I often find myself playing the role of the polite visitor, but often would like to ask things like:
How do your deadly force laws compare?
Are you required to retreat?
How many times a week are you required to disarm?
Does your government trust you to carry in government buildings?
Can you carry where alcohol is consumed?
Do you have restrictions on the number of guns that can be carried?
Can you carry in your car without a CHL?
How does law enforcement in your area view carrying?
Do you have statewide preemption?
Etc., etc., etc.
My point is that the important thing with all of this, is the ability to defend yourself, your family, and potentially others. I can count on one hand the number of times that I go somewhere over the course of a year that I am legally restricted from carrying. I have the opportunity to provide that defense. I also have a set of laws that provide me with a very adequate defense if I am forced to use deadly force.
cwohardy - I think that once you move past the OC restriction, you'll be pleased to learn about your ability to carry a firearm for personal defense in Texas. If you're dead set on OC in Texas, then sling your rifle or shotgun over your shoulder and go about your day - they would provide a more adequate defense anyway.
