Why Carry? The Case for Concealed Carry in Today’s World

Why Carry a Concealed Weapon? A Case for Personal Responsibility

At Lone Pine Tactical, we believe carrying a concealed weapon is not just a right—it’s a responsibility. For those who question why anyone would choose to go armed, let’s break it down with clear reasoning and hard facts. Share this with anyone who thinks personal protection is unnecessary or extreme.

Empowering Yourself in an Unpredictable World

In today’s America, the need for self-reliance is undeniable. Carrying a concealed weapon equips you—regardless of age, gender, or physical strength—to take control of your immediate environment. It’s about having options in emergencies that unarmed individuals simply don’t have. Choosing to carry is an acknowledgment of responsibility: for your actions, your safety, and the security of those you love. In a society where lawlessness is a daily reality, arming yourself may even be a civic duty for those committed to preserving order and decency.

The Reality of Violence in America

The numbers speak for themselves:

•  Homicides: The FBI’s Uniform Crime Report estimates 15,000 murders annually, but with only 37% of law enforcement agencies reporting, the true number could be closer to 40,000.

•  Non-Fatal Violence: Advances in trauma care mean only 13% of shooting victims die, but in 1998 alone, nearly 1 million Americans were shot, stabbed, or severely assaulted. Many survivors face lifelong disabilities like blindness or paralysis.

•  Local Example: In Memphis in 2013, there were 154 homicides but over 9,165 attempted murders. One trauma center treated 3,100 gunshot wounds that year alone.

•  Violent Crime: The U.S. Department of Justice reports nearly 6 million violent crime victims annually. That’s 1 in 50 Americans affected every year.

Compare this to the 12-13 annual snakebite deaths or 30-40 lightning strike fatalities—risks we all take precautions against despite their rarity. Violent crime, however, is an everyday threat in cities across the nation. Ignoring it won’t make it go away.

The Limits of Relying on Others

For decades, urbanization and expanding government roles led to laws restricting weapon carry in a misguided attempt to curb violence. The result? Criminals, who by definition ignore laws, remain armed, while law-abiding citizens are left vulnerable. The government cannot guarantee your safety. Police response times average 13 minutes—far too long when seconds matter. Your personal security is, and always has been, your responsibility.

The Case for Concealed Carry

Thankfully, the tide is turning. As of 2014, all 50 states, including Illinois, have systems for citizens to legally carry handguns for self-defense. States with reasonable carry laws have seen declines in homicides and violent crimes. Why? Because armed citizens deter criminals who thrive on the defenseless. Law-abiding individuals who go through the time, effort, and expense to carry legally are not the problem. The real threat comes from those who ignore laws against murder, rape, and robbery—and they certainly won’t obey gun laws.

The Most Fundamental Right

At its core, the right to self-defense is the foundation of all other rights. Without the ability to protect your life, liberties like free speech or press are meaningless. Denying access to the tools of self-defense—like a firearm—is akin to denying ink and paper to a journalist while claiming they have freedom of the press. If you have the right to live free from unlawful violence, you have the right to be armed.

A Final Thought

As one wise individual put it: “I don’t carry a pistol to impose my will on others. I carry a pistol so others cannot impose their will on me.” At Lone Pine Tactical, we empower you to take charge of your safety. Carrying a concealed weapon isn’t about fear—it’s about preparedness, responsibility, and the fundamental right to protect your life and loved ones.

Ready to take the next step? Visit Lone Pine Tactical for training, gear, and resources to carry with confidence. Share this post to spark a conversation about personal responsibility and the right to self-defense.