The argument for Open Carry

I have read many responses to the idea of "Open Carry" with regard to pistols. I've seen anti-2nd amendment types get all hysterical over it, and I've seen so-called pro-2nd amendment types get equally as hysterical also. I've read posts in various forums both pro and con, and some even arguing that the recent decision by the US Supreme Court ONLY affects Washington DC.

What I see as having been virtually ignored is that as stated numerous times, (in numerous places) the 2nd Amendment does not give us the right to keep and bear arms, any more than any state law or state constitution does. The 2nd amendment merely protects that right. Whether or not any state law or constitution says so, we still have the right to self-defense, and as an extension, the tools necessary to exercise those rights.

We still have the right to keep and bear arms, even without the 2nd Amendment. Just as we also have the right to free speech, freedom of religion, trial by a jury of our peers, the right to not testify against ourselves.

But it seems that government isn't the only entity that has forgotten those rights. Many of us, have forgotten them also. And this is in spite of all the amendments and the Constitution.

How many of us have run into US law enforcement officers, under the mistaken impression that if there isn't a law saying we can do something, then it must be illegal? Where do they get this idea? Where does anyone get the idea that a right not granted by law, doesn't exist?

It still exists, but if we don't properly exercise our rights, we will lose them, by ignorance, as well as by legislation. If for no other reason than this, we must press on for open carry, and eliminate any bans that exist.

States rights should not usurp the rights of the individual citizen. The idea of free, elected governments is to serve the citizens, not rule them. If we are ruled, then we are not free. If we are not free, we are not citizens. If we are not citizens, we are slaves.

Current Mood: Amused
Current Music: Macho Man - The Village People
My Carry Pistol: Taurus PT-92AFS 9x19mm NATO