Yes. I learned that a handgun is not nearly as effective as touted in the media and Hollywood. Irrespective of caliber, shot placement is most critical. I learned that what and how you practice manifests itself under the stress and urgency of handgun self-defense; therefore, practice correctly, repetitively, muscle memory is true and train the mind through mental exercises, scene scenarios, what to do, how to respond, what you will say or not say…the mind is just as (or more) relevant than physiological practice…think it through…settle it in the mind and the hands will follow but it must become innate.

Subsequent terminating the threat…keep your mouth shut…answer the questions of law enforcement only to the extent that you did what was required to save life…volunteer NOTHING but to establish probable cause and KNOW what lawful probable cause actually is.

Practice fire control discipline…you are liable for every trigger squeeze….every round that is discharged is potential liability….I’ve seen scenarios where police offense reports were generated for every round discharged as law enforcement attempts to find that one-round discharged unnecessarily.

High-capacity weapons, magazines, are good but they can become a 20-year liability if you’re NOT disciplined. Jury’s and Grand Juries typically interpret high-capacity weapons as garnered by RAMBO types…they are inherently suspicious of the legitimate intent of one who carries high-capacity weapons and extra magazines; YES, though it’s better to be tried by twelve than carried by six, be cognizant of your actions, your words, your weapon, and how they will be interpreted by an ADA and the Grand Jury reviewing your shooting status.

A hammer-less five-shot 38sp shouts-out “I’m interested in self-protection” while a Glock 19 and extra magazines shouts-out “I’m ready for war…bring it on!” Red Dot Sights – Lasers are wonderful supplemental tools but they’re interpreted by Juries as Rambo Toys…be aware!

It’s your life, your freedom, your family, your decision. Don’t do anything to incite a confrontation. Don’t wear political attire in public if you decide to carry. Don’t intercede in arguments or fights or confrontations lest absolutely necessary to protect life (walk away)…MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS when carrying concealed…be the guy in gray in a crowd…blend in…stay aware. Be lawful, be permitted, be kind, be polite, MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS! and keep your mouth shut!

If you discharge your weapon, law enforcement IS NOT YOUR FRIEND but your adversary as is the ADA and the Judge who interprets the probable cause statement and your bail or bond…shut your mouth!