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Post by winteriscomingxii on Nov 5, 2018 12:59:47 GMT
So, I sit at my computer only three hours after having to pull my gun on and come close to shooting someone.
I'm posting this for encouragement, for people to stand up for themselves, always be aware of their surroundings and most importantly to make sure you are well armed at all times. My intention is not meant to preach pro gun advocacy, but I am pro gun and I will not hide that. If you don't agree with me, that's totally fine, I only ask that you act like an adult about it. I'm simply here because I need to talk about this with someone, my adrenaline is still up and so are my nerves.
I'm unemployed right now, the company I worked for went bankrupt and was bought out, but the business I worked at was closed down as a result. Therefor my schedule is a bit backwards. I sleep during the day, stay up during the night. I'm drawing unemployment while I decide what the next step in my life is going to be. Since I'm unemployed and my schedule is backwards, a friend of mine comes over and we usually sit in the driveway at night and talk about current social, political issues and listen to audio books. I know, I know... lol, it sounds strange. However, tonight we were sitting in my driveway, listening to "The Lies of Locke Lamora", and a vehicle parked down the road with it's lights off. About 10 minutes later it drove past us, still with it's lights off. It didn't stop at my house, but it did stop at the residence two houses down from mine. Two african american men got out and started looking in vehicle windows of the cars parked in the driveway, but quickly got back in their vehicle and drove away. I thought it looked shady as hell, obviously. Mind you this is at 2:30-3am in the morning. We were sitting there contemplating calling the police for only about five minutes when the car started creeping back down the street towards us.
It's at this time I started to have a bad feeling for sure, and sure enough, the vehicle pulled up at the end of my driveway and stopped (about 10ft away from the vehicle I was in). I immediately went for my pistol in the back seat, quietly opened my door and walked to the rear of my vehicle. I didn't raise the gun but I made it visible. When I walked around the vehicle there he was, had just gotten out of the passenger seat, a guy with a crowbar in hand. I immediately took a step back, partially concealed by the back of my vehicle, and pointed the gun at him while nearly at the exact same time he starts to yell "OH SH*T, HE'S GOT A GUN... GO, GO GO!!!". He jumps back into the vehicle and starts to drive toward me. I crouch to try and conceal my chest and stomach and make myself a smaller target while keeping the gun trained on him, there was no time to retreat further backwards and there was even less cover back there if I had tried. As they pass me I'm yelling "Get the fu*k out of here!".
I know it's not the most exciting story by far, and I'm sure there have been plenty of other people here that have experienced far worse. However as I said, my adrenaline is still up and I needed to share this experience with someone. I've never had to pull my gun in possible defense of my life, I've never had the feeling of "oh crap, these people may have guns, they were just about to break in my vehicle and would have possibly killed or hurt me, they may still shoot me as they pass because I don't have enough time to retreat". I simply kept my gun steady and aimed, my voice loud and intimidating and hoped that they weren't as stupid as they appeared to be.
I firmly believe that if I hadn't had that gun, reacted as fast as I did, scared the crap out of them and kept the gun pointed firmly in their face basically, they would have tried to rush me. After all, they didn't see my friend in his vehicle, and there were at least two, if not three of them, against me by myself. Not that they knew it either, but my friend has muscular dystrophy and would be absolutely no help in a fight. Yes, it's possible that they would have had guns too, reacted in fear and shot first, but I felt better knowing I got them by surprise, already had mine in hand and was prepared. There was no avoiding them, if I hadn't confronted them at the driveway, they would have walked straight up to my vehicle, and if I hadn't had a gun I doubt they would have been inclined to simply turn and walk away, not with me being outnumbered and one of them with a crowbar.
Anyway, I called the police right after and both officers said I reacted appropriately. A report was filed.
Just be careful people. I live in a nice, quiet neighborhood and I never expected something like this to happen. I'm very lucky it didn't escalate and I'm glad I didn't have to shoot anyone. I'm also glad to know that I can now maintain a level head in a tense situation.
If you're in America, stay armed (if you think it's the right decision for you) and be always prepared for the worst. It can happen at any moment.
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Post by pellius on Nov 5, 2018 13:56:47 GMT
Similar to your situation, I have faced an aggressive combative person forcibly entering my dwelling at night for the declared purpose of doing me physical harm. As is typical, I was armed with a pistol. Like in your situation, when my assailant realized I was armed, he retreated from my abode, and I was able to call law enforcement. Like in your situation, I thankfully found a solution that did not involve death or discharging my weapon (though I did end up with a few minor injuries).
In my case, I very genuinely believe being armed preserved the lives of myself and my family.
Based upon what you have shared, I offer my personal commendation to you for keeping your wits, and reserving deadly force as a true last resort.
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Post by Wes Cameron on Nov 5, 2018 15:15:01 GMT
Everyone has the right to defend themselves. I've had numerous street encounters against armed (knife, tire iron, steel bar) and unarmed thugs where I had to defend my life and that of my wife. Thankfully my training allowed me to do this and not get hurt in the process. In Canada law abiding citizens can't carry any type of self-defense weapon, but be assured the criminals will have them including guns.
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Post by strigoil on Nov 5, 2018 16:04:45 GMT
That sounds like a really scary situation, so scary that semprini like that is relatively common in the US, living in Norway I really can't relate, I absolutely understand why people want to carry over there, I would want to as well.
Glad you didn't have to discharge, I imagine even if it is justified and in self defense having to do that can have long lasting consequences mentally.
Also I love that you and your friend listen to audiobooks and chill together, sounds like a great time to me..I've been listening to audiobooks every night myself now for 3 years and Lies of Locke Lamora was my first one, the narrator is so amazing and the books are so good, you'll love them all.
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Post by Lancelot Chan on Nov 5, 2018 16:13:38 GMT
I'm glad you guys are alright after those confrontation. Good luck to all of those who have to defend themselves!
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Post by tancred on Nov 5, 2018 18:47:47 GMT
Glad to hear things turned out ok, Winter, and that things didn't escalate any more than they did. I own swords, knives, and other weapons. I do not own any firearms, but totally support one's right to do so. Buying a gun for self-defense has crossed my mind several times over the last few years. Not in a concealed carry kind of way, but just for the home. Not yet ready to make that decision.
When it comes to self-defense, I'm of the mind that all bets are off; screw any notion of, "he used excessive force." If some one means me or my family or my dog harm, then, straight up, I'll use all the force necessary to keep us safe! Totally support every one else's right to do the same.
On another note, I do wish you well in finding a new job. I know its tough to be out of work. Hang in there. Best wishes!
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Post by howler on Nov 5, 2018 19:41:26 GMT
So, I sit at my computer only three hours after having to pull my gun on and come close to shooting someone. I'm posting this for encouragement, for people to stand up for themselves, always be aware of their surroundings and most importantly to make sure you are well armed at all times. My intention is not meant to preach pro gun advocacy, but I am pro gun and I will not hide that. If you don't agree with me, that's totally fine, I only ask that you act like an adult about it. I'm simply here because I need to talk about this with someone, my adrenaline is still up and so are my nerves. I'm unemployed right now, the company I worked for went bankrupt and was bought out, but the business I worked at was closed down as a result. Therefor my schedule is a bit backwards. I sleep during the day, stay up during the night. I'm drawing unemployment while I decide what the next step in my life is going to be. Since I'm unemployed and my schedule is backwards, a friend of mine comes over and we usually sit in the driveway at night and talk about current social, political issues and listen to audio books. I know, I know... lol, it sounds strange. However, tonight we were sitting in my driveway, listening to "The Lies of Locke Lamora", and a vehicle parked down the road with it's lights off. About 10 minutes later it drove past us, still with it's lights off. It didn't stop at my house, but it did stop at the residence two houses down from mine. Two african american men got out and started looking in vehicle windows of the cars parked in the driveway, but quickly got back in their vehicle and drove away. I thought it looked shady as hell, obviously. Mind you this is at 2:30-3am in the morning. We were sitting there contemplating calling the police for only about five minutes when the car started creeping back down the street towards us. It's at this time I started to have a bad feeling for sure, and sure enough, the vehicle pulled up at the end of my driveway and stopped (about 10ft away from the vehicle I was in). I immediately went for my pistol in the back seat, quietly opened my door and walked to the rear of my vehicle. I didn't raise the gun but I made it visible. When I walked around the vehicle there he was, had just gotten out of the passenger seat, a guy with a crowbar in hand. I immediately took a step back, partially concealed by the back of my vehicle, and pointed the gun at him while nearly at the exact same time he starts to yell "OH SH*T, HE'S GOT A GUN... GO, GO GO!!!". He jumps back into the vehicle and starts to drive toward me. I crouch to try and conceal my chest and stomach and make myself a smaller target while keeping the gun trained on him, there was no time to retreat further backwards and there was even less cover back there if I had tried. As they pass me I'm yelling "Get the fu*k out of here!". I know it's not the most exciting story by far, and I'm sure there have been plenty of other people here that have experienced far worse. However as I said, my adrenaline is still up and I needed to share this experience with someone. I've never had to pull my gun in possible defense of my life, I've never had the feeling of "oh crap, these people may have guns, they were just about to break in my vehicle and would have possibly killed or hurt me, they may still shoot me as they pass because I don't have enough time to retreat". I simply kept my gun steady and aimed, my voice loud and intimidating and hoped that they weren't as stupid as they appeared to be. I firmly believe that if I hadn't had that gun, reacted as fast as I did, scared the crap out of them and kept the gun pointed firmly in their face basically, they would have tried to rush me. After all, they didn't see my friend in his vehicle, and there were at least two, if not three of them, against me by myself. Not that they knew it either, but my friend has muscular dystrophy and would be absolutely no help in a fight. Yes, it's possible that they would have had guns too, reacted in fear and shot first, but I felt better knowing I got them by surprise, already had mine in hand and was prepared. There was no avoiding them, if I hadn't confronted them at the driveway, they would have walked straight up to my vehicle, and if I hadn't had a gun I doubt they would have been inclined to simply turn and walk away, not with me being outnumbered and one of them with a crowbar. Anyway, I called the police right after and both officers said I reacted appropriately. A report was filed. Just be careful people. I live in a nice, quiet neighborhood and I never expected something like this to happen. I'm very lucky it didn't escalate and I'm glad I didn't have to shoot anyone. I'm also glad to know that I can now maintain a level head in a tense situation. If you're in America, stay armed (if you think it's the right decision for you) and be always prepared for the worst. It can happen at any moment. Auto theft & burglary are off the charts common and super expensive to the taxpayer and society, just dial up your insurance company. The real crime is that catching the thieves is low priority and, if caught, the penalties are a sad joke. Glad you did your part and it didn't escalate. Maybe the incident will make the thieves think twice, or at least make them put off their illegal activities for a time.
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Post by LastTemplar on Nov 5, 2018 21:28:30 GMT
I'm guessing that if it were canada you'd be arrested for possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace. self defence wouldn't be considered
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Zen_Hydra
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Post by Zen_Hydra on Nov 5, 2018 22:19:03 GMT
...politics...
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Post by nddave on Nov 6, 2018 2:53:38 GMT
Good job, you held your ground and as a result saved you and your friend on top of preventing your neighborhood from getting vandalised or robbed.
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tonystark
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Post by tonystark on Nov 6, 2018 3:32:10 GMT
So, I sit at my computer only three hours after having to pull my gun on and come close to shooting someone. I'm posting this for encouragement, for people to stand up for themselves, always be aware of their surroundings and most importantly to make sure you are well armed at all times. My intention is not meant to preach pro gun advocacy, but I am pro gun and I will not hide that. If you don't agree with me, that's totally fine, I only ask that you act like an adult about it. I'm simply here because I need to talk about this with someone, my adrenaline is still up and so are my nerves. I'm unemployed right now, the company I worked for went bankrupt and was bought out, but the business I worked at was closed down as a result. Therefor my schedule is a bit backwards. I sleep during the day, stay up during the night. I'm drawing unemployment while I decide what the next step in my life is going to be. Since I'm unemployed and my schedule is backwards, a friend of mine comes over and we usually sit in the driveway at night and talk about current social, political issues and listen to audio books. I know, I know... lol, it sounds strange. However, tonight we were sitting in my driveway, listening to "The Lies of Locke Lamora", and a vehicle parked down the road with it's lights off. About 10 minutes later it drove past us, still with it's lights off. It didn't stop at my house, but it did stop at the residence two houses down from mine. Two african american men got out and started looking in vehicle windows of the cars parked in the driveway, but quickly got back in their vehicle and drove away. I thought it looked shady as hell, obviously. Mind you this is at 2:30-3am in the morning. We were sitting there contemplating calling the police for only about five minutes when the car started creeping back down the street towards us. It's at this time I started to have a bad feeling for sure, and sure enough, the vehicle pulled up at the end of my driveway and stopped (about 10ft away from the vehicle I was in). I immediately went for my pistol in the back seat, quietly opened my door and walked to the rear of my vehicle. I didn't raise the gun but I made it visible. When I walked around the vehicle there he was, had just gotten out of the passenger seat, a guy with a crowbar in hand. I immediately took a step back, partially concealed by the back of my vehicle, and pointed the gun at him while nearly at the exact same time he starts to yell "OH SH*T, HE'S GOT A GUN... GO, GO GO!!!". He jumps back into the vehicle and starts to drive toward me. I crouch to try and conceal my chest and stomach and make myself a smaller target while keeping the gun trained on him, there was no time to retreat further backwards and there was even less cover back there if I had tried. As they pass me I'm yelling "Get the fu*k out of here!". I know it's not the most exciting story by far, and I'm sure there have been plenty of other people here that have experienced far worse. However as I said, my adrenaline is still up and I needed to share this experience with someone. I've never had to pull my gun in possible defense of my life, I've never had the feeling of "oh crap, these people may have guns, they were just about to break in my vehicle and would have possibly killed or hurt me, they may still shoot me as they pass because I don't have enough time to retreat". I simply kept my gun steady and aimed, my voice loud and intimidating and hoped that they weren't as stupid as they appeared to be. I firmly believe that if I hadn't had that gun, reacted as fast as I did, scared the crap out of them and kept the gun pointed firmly in their face basically, they would have tried to rush me. After all, they didn't see my friend in his vehicle, and there were at least two, if not three of them, against me by myself. Not that they knew it either, but my friend has muscular dystrophy and would be absolutely no help in a fight. Yes, it's possible that they would have had guns too, reacted in fear and shot first, but I felt better knowing I got them by surprise, already had mine in hand and was prepared. There was no avoiding them, if I hadn't confronted them at the driveway, they would have walked straight up to my vehicle, and if I hadn't had a gun I doubt they would have been inclined to simply turn and walk away, not with me being outnumbered and one of them with a crowbar. Anyway, I called the police right after and both officers said I reacted appropriately. A report was filed. Just be careful people. I live in a nice, quiet neighborhood and I never expected something like this to happen. I'm very lucky it didn't escalate and I'm glad I didn't have to shoot anyone. I'm also glad to know that I can now maintain a level head in a tense situation. If you're in America, stay armed (if you think it's the right decision for you) and be always prepared for the worst. It can happen at any moment. You definitely did the right thing, and seeing as you had nowhere to really “retreat” to, while you were confronted with a deadly weapon, your defensive reactions were justifiable! I always recommend Force-on-Force training to anyone who carry’s or carries concealed, because it allows you to experience the adrenaline rush of being physically confronted, and at the same time learning control and aim while all jazzed up. Glad you and your friend are safe though 😉
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Post by winteriscomingxii on Nov 6, 2018 9:25:00 GMT
That sounds like a really scary situation, so scary that poo like that is relatively common in the US, living in Norway I really can't relate, I absolutely understand why people want to carry over there, I would want to as well. Glad you didn't have to discharge, I imagine even if it is justified and in self defense having to do that can have long lasting consequences mentally. Also I love that you and your friend listen to audiobooks and chill together, sounds like a great time to me..I've been listening to audiobooks every night myself now for 3 years and Lies of Locke Lamora was my first one, the narrator is so amazing and the books are so good, you'll love them all. Sorry for the late replies, I had a busy day working on ebay projects I've got to finish up and get shipped out. I am also very glad I didn't have to use the gun. Not only would I have to prove my innocence (instead of the system proving me guilty of something) but I wouldn't want the PTSD from the encounter to haunt me, as you said. I do wish that no one in the US owned guns, but that's a fruitless wish. That would be an ideal situation, but there are millions in circulation in the country. Banning them would only result in a small civil war and result in all the criminals owning firearms and none of the good guys having them. Anyway, I don't want to dwell about gun issues in the US as it comes close to political discussions which are not allowed in this forum, from what I've read. So I'll just leave it at that. Audio-books are great, I started listening to them at my old job and now I can't go back to old fashioned reading. I loved Lies of Locke Lamora as well. I just finished it. I really hope the next two books are just as enjoyable. I've read that they're quite a bit different than the first book. Have you ever read the First Law series? I'm sure you have since they're extremely popular. They are my personal favorite. Steven Pacey does such an amazing job at narration, just like Michael Paige (the narrator for The Gentleman Bastard series). If not, I suggest you check them out! Thanks for the kind comments!
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Post by winteriscomingxii on Nov 6, 2018 9:26:20 GMT
I'm glad you guys are alright after those confrontation. Good luck to all of those who have to defend themselves! Thank you!
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Post by winteriscomingxii on Nov 6, 2018 9:34:19 GMT
Glad to hear things turned out ok, Winter, and that things didn't escalate any more than they did. I own swords, knives, and other weapons. I do not own any firearms, but totally support one's right to do so. Buying a gun for self-defense has crossed my mind several times over the last few years. Not in a concealed carry kind of way, but just for the home. Not yet ready to make that decision. When it comes to self-defense, I'm of the mind that all bets are off; screw any notion of, "he used excessive force." If some one means me or my family or my dog harm, then, straight up, I'll use all the force necessary to keep us safe! Totally support every one else's right to do the same. On another note, I do wish you well in finding a new job. I know its tough to be out of work. Hang in there. Best wishes! Thank you for the kind words. Making the decision of owning firearms is definitely one that needs consideration and maturity, along with proper training and proper storage of the gun. It's great that you're taking it serious and contemplating, instead of running out, buying a Glock with a ten dollar wal mart holster and carrying it on the hip everywhere you go. I've been around and shooting them all my life, and also worked for 10 years selling them. If you ever have any questions or concerns, I don't consider myself an expert on them, but I definitely know a bit. Feel free to ask. Thanks again for the kindness.
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Post by winteriscomingxii on Nov 6, 2018 12:11:41 GMT
You definitely did the right thing, and seeing as you had nowhere to really “retreat” to, while you were confronted with a deadly weapon, your defensive reactions were justifiable! I always recommend Force-on-Force training to anyone who carry’s or carries concealed, because it allows you to experience the adrenaline rush of being physically confronted, and at the same time learning control and aim while all jazzed up. Glad you and your friend are safe though 😉 Thanks so much for the kind words!
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Post by Deleted on Nov 6, 2018 13:45:30 GMT
Everyone has the right to defend themselves. I've had numerous street encounters against armed (knife, tire iron, steel bar) and unarmed thugs where I had to defend my life and that of my wife. Thankfully my training allowed me to do this and not get hurt in the process. In Canada law abiding citizens can't carry any type of self-defense weapon, but be assured the criminals will have them including guns. Welcome to Germany/France/UK... and so on. In Germany we are down to the point where even a baton of ANY weapon-looking type is prohibited by law - and HELL, would you be in trouble if you EVER use something prohibited by law... Some time ago i had a firm discussion with two police guys who wanted to take away my Cold Steel Seagal walking stick - and i am in NEED of a stick to walk, at least sometimes. So i chose the CS for being super-solid and feeling exactly like a well-balanced katana and for supporting my weight and health issues... and they wanted to take it away! Too aggressive looking! I cant understand my country anymore... Glad the OP made it out safe and sound; lucky man!
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Post by Deleted on Nov 6, 2018 16:09:44 GMT
Any person might react differently and develop any manner of PTSD from a single instance. Circumstance can be so, so different but I think if I had a pistol meant for defense, I would not leave it on/in the back seat of a vehicle. Also if having observed questionable activity been prepared, or reacted a little different as said suspects returned after first passing me by.
If I were in a vehicle with someone else and we were armed, witnessing the approaching vehicle and "interlopers" Staying put with the windows up, imo, a better course of action. Simply turning the vehicle lights on, more than enough to send these folks driving away again in a hurry. Charging the other vehicle with yours a better weapon than a pistol.
Like I say, folk react differently in any situation. I'm glad it worked out. In many/most US states, a loaded vehicle cannot be stored in a vehicle, nor transported in that condition. LTC means just that and state and local laws do vary but we are presented with only part of the story here. Was the person sitting in the visitor's car? Multiple vehicles? I am assuming you were sitting in your friend's car when they visited.
The aftermath conditions vary as well. Sometimes lasting hours or days and sometimes a lifetime. It is though during a lifetime of experiences that one's own development reactions might vary even more.
In an urban situation like this with phone in hand, calling the local dispatch, or 911 (I keep both handy in this more rural setting) as soon as I see suspicious activity. My vehicle then running with lights on (I am sure they would not have backed up) and charging with my vehicle if I didn't know why someone was approaching with a crowbar.
Fight or flight quite instinctive but at the same time further broken down into stages of awareness and reaction, and can be trained.
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tonystark
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Post by tonystark on Nov 7, 2018 1:35:14 GMT
You definitely did the right thing, and seeing as you had nowhere to really “retreat” to, while you were confronted with a deadly weapon, your defensive reactions were justifiable! I always recommend Force-on-Force training to anyone who carry’s or carries concealed, because it allows you to experience the adrenaline rush of being physically confronted, and at the same time learning control and aim while all jazzed up. Glad you and your friend are safe though 😉 Thanks so much for the kind words! Anytime! Also if you need any help or are unsure of how to word a police report (if they require you to fill one out) let me know. I have some experience in the field.
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Post by Wes Cameron on Nov 7, 2018 1:55:16 GMT
Everyone has the right to defend themselves. I've had numerous street encounters against armed (knife, tire iron, steel bar) and unarmed thugs where I had to defend my life and that of my wife. Thankfully my training allowed me to do this and not get hurt in the process. In Canada law abiding citizens can't carry any type of self-defense weapon, but be assured the criminals will have them including guns. Welcome to Germany/France/UK... and so on. In Germany we are down to the point where even a baton of ANY weapon-looking type is prohibited by law - and HELL, would you be in trouble if you EVER use something prohibited by law... Some time ago i had a firm discussion with two police guys who wanted to take away my Cold Steel Seagal walking stick - and i am in NEED of a stick to walk, at least sometimes. So i chose the CS for being super-solid and feeling exactly like a well-balanced katana and for supporting my weight and health issues... and they wanted to take it away! Too aggressive looking! I cant understand my country anymore... Glad the OP made it out safe and sound; lucky man! Yes, you have it worse than even Canada. Here I can walk down the street with just about anything (including a sword) but barring a firearm, and as long as I can justify it nothing can be done...just don't say you carry it for self-defense because it will result in a charge - ridiculous. "Too aggressive looking" how absurd. Here, for discussion purposes, lets say I'm carrying a sheathed long sword on the way to show a friend, on the way I get accosted by an individual with a knife and I pull out my sword - I would not get charged. If he attacked me with the knife and I injured or killed him with the sword - that is justifiable self-defense. BUT, the crux of the matter is proving it in Court. Often in Court the victim is vilified as being the offender, and the offender the victim, and if you are white and the offender is of colour - be prepared to be crucified by all the SJW's, and the media.
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AndiTheBarvarian
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Post by AndiTheBarvarian on Nov 7, 2018 5:57:08 GMT
In Germany you're not allowed to carry melee weapons in public without a respected reason (not self defense, but sports etc.). The Seagal "Walking Stick" is easy to consider a melee weapon, it's a bokken with an axe-like handle. Don't tell me you have it only because it's such a good orthopaedic device. I have an "indestructable umbrella" btw., looks more civilized.
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