The world is demonstrably dangerous. Any possibility of a threat of harm to my children is reason enough for me to be willing and able to defend them. As for my wife, I believe that as a husband, I bear responsibility to her and she to me. I also believe something that I cannot back up with any statistics. A human male does not deserve to be called a man unless he is willing to live, die and possibly kill for the well-being and defense of his wife and children. A woman of character must also shoulder the same responsibility. The Editor of this site refers to people of all colors, creeds and genders who hold this belief as “Armed Intelligentia.” I like that . . .
I enjoy reading and discussing the multitude of facets of gun ownership. I am one of those who carry a firearm every single day. Yet there remains a few who see people who EDC (Every Day Carry) as Neanderthals that approach every problem to be solved by pounding it with a rock. Well . . .
When it comes to mechanical fixes, I am little better than that Neanderthal. My toolbox has duct tape and WD-40. I stand by the adage that if it moves and it shouldn’t then get the duct tape. If it should move and it doesn’t, well I’m sure you get the picture.
When considering the safety of my wife and three children, I do not limit myself to one or two tools. At the same time, I do not pretend to have an exhaustive inventory. I’m always ready to learn about new tools and techniques from people on this site, and anywhere else. Meanwhile, let’s take a look at the old toolbox:
Tool #1 is a willingness to defend my family with lethal and non-lethal means. In regards to firearms, I must be willing to kill to prevent harm to my family. If not, then a firearm should not be in my toolbox.
Tool #2 is awareness. Situational awareness is a tool discussed in another article at TTAG. However, when this tool is used well it leads to my next tool
Tool #3 is avoidance. If I can avoid a threat to me or my family then I always do so. I have done this with the kids in tow. We saw a young man who was mad at the world trying to start trouble with passers-by. We skirted the long way around. I was armed and able to defend if necessary, but it wasn’t necessary.
Tool #4 is appeasement. That word probably chokes some folks. Depending on the situation, give the person what they want provided that you have some surety of safety if you do. My wife used this method a few days ago at Wal-Mart when I wasn’t with her. She bumped the cart of a lady who turned on her and let loose a whole mountain of verbal abuse. My wife offered what apology she could fit in between the rants and backed away until she could turn away. ny other response would have unnecessarily escalated the situation.
Tool #5 is less than lethal means – whatever that means. In my case, physical strength on strength can be difficult. I have a chronic disease that limits my ability to grapple with someone. My toolbox is pretty scant in this area. I have chosen not to use pepper spray or Tasers. The local culture in rural Alaska is gun friendly and pro-self-defense. So I rely mainly on my EDC and BUG (Back Up Gun).
Tool #6 is lethal means. My lethal means is a full-size 1911 and a .380 BUG. I train with both a lot. My family members are all familiar with them and shoot proficiently with them. When at home, add a 12 gauge to the list as well. Other firearms remain available to other household members if they are in the safe room.
As a lover of the tools necessary to defend and care for my family, I want to hear your opinions. What tools missed my list? How might my tools be used in other ways? Because the last tool I will list is…
Tool #7 – Be willing to learn from others. We have a lot of strengths when we come together. There are men and women that post here from various backgrounds, professions, and ages. I believe we can learn from one another. So let’s talk tools…