Should Introverts Own Handguns?

October 17, 2019

Most of us associate owning a concealed carry weapon with aggressive types who are always on the lookout for an adventure. I am not one of those people. Frankly, I never considered carrying a gun.

Brave and macho were not words any of my friends would ever have used to describe me. Honestly, in the face of danger, I’d tuck and run for cover. 

But, even those of us most would consider timid and easily frightened can learn new skills. Don’t get me wrong. I’m still no warrior. I don’t go looking for fights. However, a new resolve has come over me reading about incidents like Sandy Hook Elementary and  the St Cloud, Minnesota shopping mall. I read with awe and admiration of the bravery of off-duty policeman, Jason Falconer. He sprang into action and instinctively took the action needed to stop the terrorist’s killing spree.

It was in that moment that I decided if faced with such a situation I wanted to have the knowledge and experience to be a Jason Falconer. Instead of cowering or running away, I want to be able to run toward the danger, while everyone else was running away. 

 

Are timid people capable of taking up arms and fighting if it’s called for? I believe we are if we have the equipment and training. I want to learn how to defend myself and my family. 

I don’t want to be the person who cowers in the face of danger.

That’s how I found myself at a training session for the safe handling of a concealed carry weapon.

I can now point the gun and shoot. During shooting drills, I can even hit the target. I know how to disassemble and clean my weapon. I’ve practiced drawing my gun and re-holstering until the motion is smooth.

I know I am not there yet. I need to develop the mindset of the Jason Falconers of the world.  I need to act instinctively if I am confronted by the bad guy. I need to know I can defend myself and my family.

How did I make this transformation? First I resolved to stop being a cowering individual. Then I researched the best concealed carry weapon for me and my needs.

Having found a good holster and the most convenient and comfortable position for it, I got comfortable with my gun and its holster.

This was good preparation. My next step was signing up for a National Gun Safety class. I wanted to learn about the safe operation of my weapon. Whether you are curious about how gun work or are thinking about buying a weapon, I cannot say enough about this course. It taught me the basics of handgun safety. 

I am not yet an experienced marksman but thanks to my shooting range practice sessions I am likely to shoot the target not other shooters. I can deal with recoil. I can load ammunition and avoid catching my finger when I pull the trigger.

Best of all I have a confidence that comes with knowing I can handle, transport, and store my handgun and keep my family safe.

When I started this journey, I wanted to become a timid person who can rise to the challenge when it comes. I believe shy people can defend themselves. I hope I never have to test this belief. But, I am ready.