[RalphSchmalph]

I prefer concealed carry. That way people will think twice about committing a "crime against the person" because they don't want to risk dealing with someone who's armed. When the weapon is obvious then they can jump you or "dry gulch" you. I think Florida, like a few other states, permits anyone to carry a concealed weapon unless the state can prove that you're not entitled due to a conviction or past treatment for a mental disorder. In other words, the burden is on the state to deny you the privilege rather than you having to prove that you have a "need" to carry a concealed weapon. Very civilized!