Open Carry in NOVA

[HostileApostle]

While I patiently wait for my CHP to arrive in the mail, I weigh the pros/cons of open carry in my mind. Personally, I would much rather conceal the precense of a firearm on my person, but I see advantages and disadvantages to both types of carry.
A concealed weapon allows you to go about your daily routine without the watchful eyes of the public forever fixed to your hip. Carrying openly draws the attention of the general public to your presence. I live in the Hybla Valley/Mount Vernon area of Alexandria, and any time I have OC'd, I have run into at least one person who has questioned the legality of my actions as they were unaware of their right to carry. While it is not my job to inform citizens of their rights, I believe the discussions I have had with others due to carrying openly have been more beneficial than problematic. And while I also believe that carrying openly acts as a deterrent to crime, I see the flip side of that scenario. Those who choose to commit crimes in an area can see an ordinary citizen carrying a weapon in two ways: as a reason to rethink their line of work, or an opportunity to add a new piece of hardware to their collection of crime facilitators. I know that in most cases it would be the former, but would you want to be one of the few instances in which the latter took place?
I'd like to see how many others in NOVA prefer CC/OC, and get some more opinions on the matter...

[jadedone4]

... I'm in Fairfax (not the City of.. part) and I have never had anyone ask "why" I OC; I have had folks ask about the SIG, but no negative questions. I have however, been turned away from a theater (posted here) when OC'g; and was asked by the GM on the follow-up call to CC while visiting that location.

This has NOTHING to do with you; just something that is told to all folks who OC (or at least should be told) - act like the firearm is just like your cellphone carrier - a normal part of your everyday "package" (wallet, keys, etc); carry yourself in a respectful manner (not suggesting/implying that you are doing otherwise), and in most cases folks wil not notice (at least not down here in Fairfax and I can tell you I am 6'1 250lbs, its kinda hard to miss me and the SIG P226).

You are doing the right and responsible thing; providing options to your carrying (OC/CC) - continue doing so in a way/manner that suits your specific needs - but by all means, make sure to carry at all times (when legally able to).

[Jericho01]

OC'ing has its pros and cons. I personally prefer to CC to avoid unwanted attention. FCPD has had it's share of embarrassment in the past when confronting indiduals who OC'd (The Starbucks - Reston incident comes to mind). Do what you're most comfortable with.

[zephyp]

I live in Springfield and CC unless absolutely necessary to OC. Too many antis up here and I do not want to draw attention or have to waste time dealing with LE that are ignorant of the law. I also see the upside of OC as a deterrent but also do not want to have to deal with someone making a play for my weapon. I'm hoping our new governor will get us concealed carry in restaurants so I dont have to worry about it anymore. The only gun friendly place I know to eat is Fudruckers in Annandale.

Now, when I visit Henry in Keysville (way down south in Charlotte County) OC does not bother me one bit. No one gives a gun a second look other than maybe to admire it.

[Vahunter]

Now, when I visit Henry in Keysville (way down south in Charlotte County) OC does not bother me one bit. No one gives a gun a second look other than maybe to admire it.

Maybe that's because just about everyone else is carrying too. Even the church secretary.

[zephyp]

Now, when I visit Henry in Keysville (way down south in Charlotte County) OC does not bother me one bit. No one gives a gun a second look other than maybe to admire it.

Maybe that's because just about everyone else is carrying too. Even the church secretary.

No wonder I feel so safe and protected when I'm down your way...