When tacti-cool doesnt pay
Have you ever been at the mall and seen an "adventurous" type with a "discrete" carry vest and some 5.11's on and thought, "Geeze, could he be any more obvious"?I know you've had to have seen this guy somewhere before. He's advertising to the world that he has a gun and some cool guy gear. Unaware to himself what he is not showing us is that he is a skilled marksman or real world operator, because those guys don't have to play dress up to go to Piggly Wiggly. The problem here is he not only appears to be "militant" or hostile to the general public, but beyond that he has now isolated himself to be victimized for crimes of opportunity to be committed by an increasingly aware and brazen criminal element.
Just this past year here in Central Florida two men were victims of strong arm robbery in their own garage after having visited a local gun range. The criminals (no, there is no other word for them) were in the range/shop and had targeted these two because of their equipment. Why the two men who had just practiced their skills did not fight back, God only knows. But what I really want to know is if a criminal is willing to approach two men, obviously armed with the latest cool guy gear, what could possibly be a deterrent? The honest answer is there really is no deterrent. They've already crossed the line and shown absolute disregard even when knowledgeable of a victim having a firearm on person.
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "that's an isolated incident, my tactical gear let's criminals know I mean business." Well, yeah, I suppose you could be right in some if not most instances. Especially when the criminals are ignorant punks who prey on the weak. But why put it out there, what are you proving to anyone else? Couldn't you be just as safe or ready while carrying your weapon and gear in a more casual and truly discrete manner?
At one time I actually subscribed to the "gear is deterrent" school of thought. However, now that the line was crossed so close to home, I follow these simple rules.
1. Be a grey man
There are distinct advantages to appearing as though you are every day Jack and Jane going about your business. It may sound cold but you have the law of averages on your side. Do not isolate yourself for victimization by advertising your goods.
2. Be alert
Keep your head on a swivel and take note of unusual occurrences and suspicious activity. If you feel a situation isn't exactly safe, retreat to a secure place. Remember that your best defensive action is always avoidance.
3. Don't get caught with your pants down
While going about your business avoid carrying objects like bags or boxes that take both hands and try to keep your strong hand open. If loading large objects into your vehicle, ask the store if you can pull up to the front door. Minimize time with a cell phone to your ear as it not only broadcasts that you're not paying attention, but can effect your equilibrium as well.
4. Your car is not a billboard
Do not keep stickers or emblems that might indicate a firearm or other gear being inside your vehicle. Showcase who you are via social networking sites if you care that much because though you may have all your gear on person, a criminal won't hesitate to bust a window and check for themselves.
To reiterate, it is always better to actively avoid conflict. Do not single yourself out as a possible victim by trying to impress others with your ninja style.