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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Predator or Prey?

I just watched a Spider build a web. It was perfect, set up to angle between the kitchen window light and it. Nature can teach us if we will heed the lessons. The eight legged predator has set the trap, much like two legged ones. 

The spider has chosen the time and place to execute the attack against the innocent. The spider has a huge advantage against an innocent insect that gets too close. That is a lesson to be learned. If you get too close, you cannot win against a seasoned predator. Awareness is key to me to avoid and back out of a potentially hostile situation if possible.

Many think if they strap on a Handgun, it is a Talisman to ward off evil. Sorry, it does not work that way on many levels. The BEST I have done presenting from concealment and getting the first accurate shot off is currently is 1.28 seconds. This is on a target that is not moving, not firing at me, and I know the test before hand. I also do not have anyone in my face to prevent me presenting the Handgun. 


In so many ways it brings up "War Games".



Yes, have a Handgun. Learn how to run it. Learn how not to be put in that position by using situational awareness if at all possible. 

Now before you get bent, remember I am an advocate of concealed carry, open carry and the Second Amendment. I tell my students that one of my main concerns on holster selection is the fact that the Handgun will stay in it if I need to run. My definition of self defense is that I get to go home at the end of the day. Period. I'm not LEO, nor am I some superhero.  


The fact that the predator already has played this game and simply views me as fresh meat in a location they chose means a great deal. If I get into this situation, I probably will not win. I will fight, but I would rather choose not to play the predators game if at all possible. The odds are always in their favor if I play the game they have setup.        

10 comments:

  1. Excellent point. Mindset and awareness are key to successful self defense. A little time spent learning about OODA loops and strategy don't hurt either.

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    1. Thanks Shepard K! Learning about OODA does not hurt at all.

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  2. Well thought out post and I like the analogy. -K @planningandforesight@blogspot.com

    PS-Clicked follow too.

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  3. As a fellow instructor, I know that you probably often get many questions that are similar to the ones I get... I advocate regular training and practice... but you can't "out-draw" a drawn gun of an adversary or two-legged varmint no matter how fast you are...

    Awareness and planning are the key... avoid obvious pitfalls and bad situations... and be aware of your situation - constantly...

    As a college professor, I am constantly horrified by young folks who walk around with iPod earbuds plugging they're ears while they stare down at the cell phone they're texting on...

    Dann in Ohio

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    1. Dann- I get it all the time. As you state, I cannot beat a drawn gun. +1 on the students! I have observed it too.

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  4. Excellent points. That is why I've never been a fan of the "gun in the purse". By the time you get it out, you will be on the ground and on the receiving end of violence you may have no further defense for.

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    1. Brigid, I concur with your observations. You don't have a lot of time if it comes. I'm not a fan of the gun in the purse either. All of my gun purses clash with my shirt! =)

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  5. "ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings!"

    One of the things my instructors have drilled into me many, many times.

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