I like to refer to this as the Protector Mindset.
Prior to carrying a firearm, I would go throughout my day semi-oblivious to the world around me.
You have the ability to protect, but you must be sure not to harm.
The decision to carry a handgun for self-defense is an important one. If you choose to do so, you must take the decision very seriously.
What do I mean by this?
You then find yourself being confronted by road rage, where this encounter could turn violent in an instant.
You might end up in a shouting match.
Carrying a firearm for protection necessarily means selecting a firearm to carry. The Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro is an excellent defensive tool.
You might go to jail.
You could end up dead.
Nothing good can come from it.
If you carry a gun, you are responsible for getting qualified instruction and training with it. Likewise, you need to understand the laws on the justifiable use of force.
The old superhero adage rings true here: With great power comes great responsibility.
I am empowering myself and my family to not be victims of circumstance or the actions of others.
I am also acutely aware that drawing that pistol is my absolute last resort.
It is always a very sound idea to seek out professional assistance and training when it comes to firearms.
This isnt some magical foresight but a commitment to situational awareness, and sound decision-making.
Lets break down some basic situational awareness practices for every day.
Lets say we are headed to a coffee shop.
The decision on whether or not you should carry a pistol for self defense is yours alone. Take an honest inventory of your skills and knowledge.
As I open my door to exit, I hit the lock button on my door.
This ensures that my vehicle is locked when I end the door.
It also prevents someone from opening my passenger door as I am exiting.
Springfield Armory offers a wide range of quality firearms very suitable for self-protection.
Also, if I needed to quickly close my door, it cannot be opened from the outside.
As I am walking towards the coffee shop, I am aware.
Im not on my phone.
Once you decide to carry a defensive handgun, be sure to invest in quality gear. A well-built holster should be comfortable while also providing excellent gun retention.
This allows me to see vehicles coming and going, as well as other people near.
Now you have awareness of the people seated as well as anyone entering.
As you head out, you keep the same heads-up awareness on the way back to your vehicle.
Some of you may think this is overkill, paranoia, etc.
The potentialities are endless.
Youre most important priority should be your and your familys safety.
Some Thoughts
What are some key takeaways for the Protector Mindset?
If you are not easily shaken, you might help avoid the escalation of violence.
Be the first to shrug it off, swallow your pride and move on.
Keep your phone in your pocket.
Prepare for whatever level of emergency you see yourself possibly encountering in your daily routine.
War game scenarios that you are likely to encounter in your head ahead of time.
Create a plan with the family, and let others know your plan and how they fit in.
The idea here is to not be caught off-guard and respond with inaction.
Tagging onto the last topic, get out and train.
Find a good instructor and have them assist with your training and planning.
They can get you to a level of training and preparedness much faster than you could on your own.
It should make you realize the weight and responsibility of your actions (or inactions).
Start at whatever level you are comfortable with and get yourself up to speed at your pace.
Furthermore, make decisions based on what is best for you.
Your firearm, holster and carry position will be based on many personal factors.
The important thing is that you find what works for you and carry every day.
For me, its a balance of size and comfort.
I can get a full grip on the Hellcat Pro and confidently make accurate hits out to 40 yards.
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