And do you want to know why?
Here’s a list of all the places I went today, openly carrying a firearm on my hip:
1. McDonald’s for breakfast.
2. Several convenience stores/gas stations.
3. The Dollar Store.
4. Wal Mart (twice.)
5. Academy Sports.
6. The local Mexican restaurant (which serves alcohol, by the way).
7. The UPS store.
And nobody batted an eyelash.
In fact, my firearm garnered attention only twice; once by the cop behind me in line at Wal Mart, who offered some unsolicited, but welcome, advice on aftermarket sights for my Glock, and the second time by the cop who pulled me over on the way home.
He shined his light on the assorted shooting gear in the back of my truck, approached my window and courteously asked me if I knew why he had pulled me over.
“For weaving across the center line, I suppose,” I said sheepishly, handing him my license. “I was getting a bit sleepy. Been a long day.”
“That, and your driver’s side headlight is out,” he informed me, “but I noticed that both high beams work fine.”
“That, I didn’t know. I’ll get it fixed, though.”
“Been shooting today?” the cop inquired politely. “I noticed your gear.”
“Yup, and I’m wearing my pistol now,” I informed him. “Just so you know.”
“No problem,” he said agreeably. “Just keep your hands on the steering wheel while we’re talking, please.”
“Yes sir,” I complied. “You need to see my registration and insurance?”
“Not necessary, Sir. Those blue lights wake you up enough to make it home now?”
“Wide awake,” I chuckled. “Thanks.”
“Drive safe, Sir. And get that light fixed, okay?”
And then he winked at KatyBeth, waved, and drove off.
* Before anyone points it out, New Orleans ain’t really friendly territory to lawful gun owners, but then again, it’s only technically part of Louisiana. Kinda like our own photo negative of the Vatican, if you catch my meaning.
