Hey, good for you using fact, though my post was not specifically directed at any one poster on this thread, and more of a general statement around the emotion this issue tends to generate. I don't "carry" in my home, have plenty of other options there, so I think that part of the rebuttal is irrelevant since anyone can keep a firearm in their house without any training (not recommended) and with no criminal background check or filing of fingerprints as required by a Texas CHL permit. When I said fact, I was referring to the crime rate statistics required by the concealed carry statute that DPS must keep (a concession when the concealed carry permit bill was passed to those that opposed it) that compares crime rates for specific criminal acts committed by CHL holders versus the population at large. Those statistics show that CHL holders are considerably more law abiding than the population at large. I believe that is due in part to the FBI criminal background checked performed on all applicants, the fact their fingerprints are on file, and the fact that the training drills into your head that if you pull the trigger, or even brandish your weapon inappropriately, it will be a life changing event in terms of emotional and dollar costs to you. It is a big responsibility not to be taken lightly when you exercise the rights granted by statute 30.06. In any case, I think the large majority of the TX population is uneducated when it comes to legal concealed carry of a firearm, the process and training involved to do so, and the general character of those that chose to do so legally. The fact that our own legislators allow legal carriers of firearms to enter the capitol building while they are in session is a testimony to the integrity of the process those same lawmakers entrusted DPS to build.
I am glad that you are not against additional restrictions because I also think one of the big problems with present society is others telling me what I need or don't. That applies to both sides of the political spectrum and all extremes of various religious faiths. We all have our own "facts" to base our decisions on, mine are quite different than yours. But at least there's some logic to both of our points of view.
One other point of note, I would never bring a firearm into anyones residence without letting them know and asking permission first. That is just plain common respect and courtesy I would pay to anyone, old friend or new.
Slotgoop, my decision is based purely on fact, with no emotion involved at all. When is the last time that you heard about a totally random break-in and robbery/killing of homeowners in the Austin area? I have lived in the Austin area for almost 20 years and can't think of one instance. By random I mean there was no connection between the homeowners and the criminals. So once I eliminate the probability of criminals entering your home to do you harm, I take the next step and say I don't want ANYONE in my home with a gun, CHL or not. I fully agree with you that crimes by CHL holders is VERY low, but not zero.
I also find your last statement interesting in that it is my opinion that CHL holders base their decision on carrying a gun on emotion and not facts. Fact is that random break-ins of homes is close to zero, so you don't need a gun in the home. Fact is that car-jackings are close to zero so you don't need a gun in the car. Fact is that in most areas of Austin and the surrounding cities/towns, the rate of violent crimes is barely measurable, so you don't need a gun for protection of yourself.
Yes, crime is certainly possible at any time in any place, and I certainly am not campaigning for any gun restrictions. If you or anyone else chooses to have a weapon at home, in the car, or on your person, please do so.
Originally Posted by SpeedRacerXXX