It’s a question I hear often:
“When should you carry a firearm?”
And my answer is always the same: all the time.
Not because you live in fear.
Not because you’re paranoid.
But because evil doesn’t call ahead.
We don’t get a heads-up when danger is coming. Bad things don’t wait until you’re ready. That’s why being prepared is a mindset, not just a moment. Carrying a firearm every day is about responsibility, not fear.
Stories That Stick With Me
I’ve watched a lot of true crime documentaries and news stories, probably more than I should. But they always leave an impact. The details change, but the pattern is often the same: someone is attacked in what should have been a normal, everyday moment. At the grocery store. On a walk. Leaving work. Sitting in their car.
One story that stuck with me recently involved a woman who was kidnapped from a Walmart parking lot in broad daylight, while others were around. She survived, but she was unable to protect herself in that moment. It’s a reminder that bad things can happen even in public places, even when it feels like someone should step in.
👉 Read the full story here.
I’m not saying that concealed carry is a guarantee. But I do believe it gives you a fighting chance when there might not be another one. It’s heartbreaking how many of these stories end with the victim having no way to defend themselves.
Those stories fuel my mission. They’re why I teach. Why I carry. And why I encourage others to take their daily carry training seriously.
Prepared, Not Paranoid
There’s a big difference between being ready and living in fear. I’m not asking you to be on edge everywhere you go. In fact, carrying a firearm with confidence comes from education, training, and mindset, not fear.
The more you train, the calmer you’ll feel. The more situationally aware you become, the more you’ll recognize early warning signs and avoid trouble altogether. That’s the goal.
Real-Life Doesn’t Follow a Script
Predators don’t care what part of town you’re in, what you’re wearing, or if your kid is with you. I’ve taught women who were attacked in broad daylight, in parking lots, at their job.
You don’t know when you’ll need to defend yourself or your family. But if you’re prepared, you’ve already won half the battle.
So when should you carry a firearm?
Everywhere you legally can. Real life won’t wait for you to get ready.
Make It a Habit, Not a Hassle
Carrying every day takes some getting used to. It takes planning. Your outfit, your holster, your placement. And yes, it takes discipline.
But the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Carrying becomes as natural as grabbing your keys. It becomes part of your lifestyle not just a “sometimes” thing.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve made the decision to carry, then carry. Every day. Not just when you think it might be a risky day.
The risk isn’t about where you are, it’s about who might be around you.
Be the woman who’s ready. Be the guy who’s not caught off guard.
You are your own first responder.
Ready to Build Confidence with Your Daily Carry?
If you’ve been wondering when you should carry a firearm, let’s talk. Join a class at Sharpen Your Shot. Whether you’re brand new or just brushing up, I’ll help you train in a way that’s approachable, realistic, and empowering.
Get comfortable. Get confident. Carry every day with purpose.