Badges? We ain't got no badges. We don't need no badges.

[CleverNickname]

I dislike badges because it tends to reinforce the idea that only government agents (i.e., people with badges) should be the ones carrying guns in public.

[LSUTiger]

I don't see many positive aspects of wearing a badge especially while open carrying. Anyone knows that the public will automatically view you as a LEO. For some people though, that is their goal.

I was in the supermarket one day when I reached up to grab something on the shelf and my shirt rode up over my CC IWB spare mag and got hung up over it. I was also carrying a tac light on my belt. She kept looking at my weak side so I don't think she saw my gun.

The lady behind me thought either the spare mag or light was a taser and was afraid to pass by. I noticed her and smiled and she made some comment about being afraid of my taser. I simply stepped aside so she wouldn't have to get too close as she passed by. I didn't correct her that is wasn't a taser nor did I tell her it was. In fact I didn't say anything. I just let her assume whatever it is she assumed.

That begs the question, if people, for no other reason than you are armed, have EDC kit-knife, flashlight, spare mag, perhaps speak authoritatively, exhibit mannerisms of situational awareness and assert your 2A rights in a matter of fact way, and act like you belong there while armed (because you do), mistake you for/assume you to be an authority figure, to what extent do you legally have to inform them that you are not a LEO?

If you are not portraying your self as a LEO in any way and don't make false statements when asked directly, I think letting them make assumptions on their own is on them, not on you.

Example: "Are you a LEO?" "I'm trying to maintain a low profile, I'm sorry my shirt rode up and you were frightened, have a nice day Ma'am". And continue about your business like you belong there (because you do). In this example, you didn't answer the question directly yes or no. You simply stated a fact, you simply let them make incorrect assumptions.

[suthdj]

Question - are you a LEO
Answer - or something.

[ScottDLS]

Question - are you a LEO
Answer - or something.

Answer - No I'm a Scorpio.

[suthdj]

Question - are you a LEO
Answer - or something.

Answer - No I'm a Scorpio.