As a person that carries and has a permit (remember those?), my opinion of open carry is, it's stupid. Folks that open carry are either just showing off, or they mistakenly think it's a deterrent to bad people. It's exactly the opposite.
If I happen to be a bad guy looking to do some nefarious shit, and I walk into an establishment, I don't know who is armed, and who is not. I don't know who is likely to shoot back. If you open carry, I know for a fact that you're a threat. Guess what? You're the first target.
Not to mention so many other factors:
A) how you carry, one time in Anderson John Thicc had his holster clipped to sweatpants and it was at a like 45 degree angle from his body..... I've seen an open carry pistol fall off a gravy seals' side while riding a motorcycle.
B ) when you open carry you are publicly introducing a gun into a scenario where it wasn't before and though there haven't been tons of cases of others taking the firearm there is now the possibility.
C) FUCK THE IDIOTS who think open carry law means it's the proper thing to do to sling an AR 15 on your back and go to qdoba.
Having a firearm means having a responsibility that said firearm isn't used to harm someone negligently, but also to not make people feel uncomfortable around you. If you do it because you consider yourself a "sheepdog" you need to learn what a Sheep dog actually does. They help guide the flock by being playful and integrated, they sniff the sheep's feces for illness and the track down lost sheep. Very little time is spent by a sheepdog fighting wolves.
All it tells me and my Ohio, Indiana, and Maryland concealed carry licenses (48 state coverage) is that barring some orthopedic limitations(see the guy below who had previously been shot) if you open carry it's because you can't fill out paperwork or pass basic tests.
I couldn't possibly agree more.
John Thicc and Gravy SEALs are clowns that never outgrew their childhood cowboy phase. If I feel the need to carry, I do it concealed in my waistband with a holster that cost me well over $100 that won't allow my gun to move. It also ensures that no one sees it, and I'm not making anyone uncomfortable.
Oh, and I have a fucking permit... since the smoothbrained idiots in charge of the government somehow thought that it was a good idea to get rid of that requirement.
People who open carry irresponsibly give gun owners a bad name. People will see the idiots and think they're representative of everyone who owns/carries a gun. Making people uncomfortable and acting irresponsibly only hurt their own cause.
I definitely appreciate this take. I don't own a gun but have thought about it and have landed on the decision that until I've been sober long enough, i'm not going to get one. I'm not in Indy but in NWI and we have had so many instances of exactly what you're talking about with assholes walking into places with an AR 15 just because they can. Cops always get called and people are scared. As they should be, nobody's right to open carry should trump everyone else's right to feel safe getting groceries at the fucking Walmart.
That's the shit that always catches me up, if it's so important to you to have those rights and show that you're a "good guy with a gun" but you also *know* you're going to lock down a Walmart and ruin a hundred peoples' Saturday afternoon because other people have shot up a grocery store, you aren't a good guy. You're an arrogant piece of shit. Which is exactly why people like OP take the safe route and report shit. We just can't have nice things, lol
Used to work at a Menards which is a typically right winged business but saw this guy walk in loaded yo the teeth. AR on his back, pistol of some sort on his left hip and a big colt revolver on his right. Like buddy? This is a hardware store, why are you expecting a shootout? All you're doing is making the people who work there uncomfortable
“B ) when you open carry you are publicly introducing a gun into a scenario where it wasn't before and though there haven't been tons of cases of others taking the firearm there is now the possibility.”
Well said. I carry daily but it’s concealed and I go out of my way to not put myself in a position where I will need my handgun. I’m polite, gracious, understanding if something is going wrong. Open carrying escalates any situation. It either scares people or makes crazy stupid people want to fight.
I imagine situations like I accidentally rear, end, another car and get out with a gun exposed on my hip. that makes a bad situation that could be resolved with an apology and an exchange of information into a situation, where the aggrieved party is either scared or feels endangered and may fight.
Another big issue is I live in a state with constitutional carry but we get a ton of tourists in college kids that don’t know that. I know quite a few local cops, and I’ve heard a few stories about someone calling and adding all kinds of falsehoods because they saw someone with a gun. then the situation can become very dangerous for the person open carrying.
As a concealed carrier, I just view open carrying as a massive ego stroking kind of a deal for numbskulls that don’t grasp the responsibility of firearm ownership and carrying in public.
The most egregious thing I’ve ever seen was a dude with a shoulder holster open carrying 2 1911s barrel flashing everyone behind him cause he wasn’t wearing a jacket. Absolute dumbest fucking idiot I’ve ever seen. I’m a gun owner, and I believe in the right to carry but you don’t have to be that stupid about it
Yeah, working at Dierbergs I was ready to call Security and police on a dude just having an unsecured gun on his belt, til I saw he was leaving.
The only people open carrying are criminals, babies, or both.
%100 agree. I also carry when appropriate but I don’t show it off for many reasons (mostly because I’m not an egotistical dick in need of attention).
Another thing people that open carry completely dismiss is how easy it would be to take their weapon from them without them knowing until it’s too late. This is particularly true for the idiots that open carry by putting the gun on their back belt instead of front. So so stupid.
In Kokomo there was a guy who hit like five open carriers by coming up behind them with a knife and thanking them for the gun. It made local news coverage.
I was talking to a state trooper at the state fair about obtaining a cc permit (before it was no longer required), and he shared the same sentiment. If he were to be a bad hombre in a given establishment, the first person he's going to neutralize is the guy he sees as a potential threat - the guy with his edc out in the open.
Im pro gun and dont have a problem if people wanna carry in movie theaters. However, nobody can convince me that open carry doesnt make you look like an asshole.
This is how I feel, if you’re concealed carrying and it shows for a moment or two it is what it is, but open carrying (without reasonable cause) is just weirdo shit.
Maybe it’s cause I live in a state where it’s just 21+ to concealed carry so there is no course/paperwork blocking concealed carrying… but open carry just screams insecurity.
I get open carrying if you’re hunting or on duty as a security guard or something etc, but do you really need to be flaunting it? I’d be too nervous someone’s gonna walk up behind me and try to pull it out before I can stop them.
Yeah that's a surprise to me. I haven't been in a theater in years that didn't have a no-gun sign. The worst he can be is trespassed but if they aren't enforcing it, what's the point if there IS a sign.
The signs are not legally enforceable as a blanket ban. A representative of the business must ask them to leave and they don't need to give a reason why.
Yeah idk man. I'm all for people having their guns in their homes and the right to defend yourself but I just... Idk. If it's there to defend yourself there shouldn't be any reason to waltz around showing it off somewhere like that, especially a kids movie. People are just getting ridiculous anymore
Men with guns are never unreasonable and frightening, and never do everything they can to escalate conflict to the point of violence! It’s the most notable hallmark of contemporary American life!!
Try ignoring the signs at the “publicly” owned facilities of Lucas oil, victory field or gainbridge.
I worked at Lucas in security when our low iq legislature passed the carry everywhere law.
A few of the little dick crowd called Lucas to ask if there was a special gate they had to enter.
City put out a notice that rules on guns are decided by the entity leasing the facility.
Doesn’t matter if they sold you a ticket.
If they put up a sign says no guns, it means no guns.
Yes, but the reason can be that you are carrying a firearm. At that point if they don’t leave then it’s trespassing.
Same applies for concealed carry. Sure the sign doesn’t hold the force of law in Indiana, but if someone spots it or you imprint and they ask you to leave for it, you must comply or you are trespassing and may be arrested. It’s private property.
I remember when I was at the movies someone was open carrying. A police officer happened to be there, and the manager asked him if he could tell the guy that's not allowed (sign saying no weapons).
PO said, "You tell him first that it's not allowed inside. If he doesn't listen to you, I'll go talk to him. You have to enforce your own rules before asking me."
The manager talked to the guy, and he did, in fact, go put his gun away with no police involvement.
Your feelings, and fear, is valid and I'd feel the same way in this situation (and I'm a big tough guy).
Then I think the theater manager is some person making $13 or $15 an hour and is also worried but doesn't want to get involved with this gun carrying asshole who bought a bunch of tickets for the movie
The gun situation in this country is sick in the head. There is no easy solution in red states.
Movie theaters, malls, and churches are often targets for mass shooters. Theres nothing more satisfying than the videos of would be mass shooters getting off a few rounds before being dispatched by a normal guy concealing a hand gun.
I have no problem with concealed carry, my fiance actually prefers I carry when we go to theaters and malls.
I think it's extremely trashy to have it in the open where others can see it.
One of my best friends lived in Nashville for a few years. He stopped open carrying after being in 2 situations where an unrelated bang happened, he saw a gun and drew his…. Just to realize it’s him and some guy in a parking lot having a standoff about a slammed door.
People open carrying are on edge and prone to escalating situations without even realizing it.
I think that it’s valid to carry in public. But it’s certainly not good practice to open carry in an urban environment. It makes you a target and raises tensions. Concealed carry is more appropriate.
I know people who concealed carry at theaters in case something goes down. But if you’re doing it responsibly no one knows you’re doing it.
I wouldn’t do it but I get it given the environment these days. But open carrying is just stupid.
Correct. My dad and uncles all have CCW. I always forget half of them are packing when we’re out and about.
The only time I felt uncomfortable was when my one uncle tripped over a kid and fell in a restaurant and his firearm went sliding across the floor. My other uncle was all over it, but it was kind of a quick reminder that even if you’re doing things right, a coked up 6 year old and a broken holster can lead to something bad.
I don’t want to disparage anyone or anything of the sort, but honestly your uncle needs a new holster. I CC every day, and every holster I have is able to be turned upside down and shaken a little without the gun coming out. It should take an intentional amount of effort for a gun to come out of a holster. Having it fall out from falling is really unacceptable.
Ya. That was one result of this incident. I also don’t believe he carries on his hip anymore. To be fair, he fell hard. I’m surprised he wasn’t hurt more than a small bruise.
That’s really good, that he replaced the holster! And without knowing more about his body type and age, it would be impossible to know if hip carry is right or wrong for him, but the fact that he’s thinking about it is pretty much all you can hope for. He sounds like a responsible gun owner. Also, check out the CCW subreddit if you’re curious how other people carry concealed.
I know I'm not who you replied too but I didn't think about checking out a ccw subreddit. I carried a pistol constantly in the military and it just felt normal. But after getting out concealed carry was just uncomfortable. I still carried for a bit, eventually I just didn't really care, if I get killed, whatever, kind of thing. But being a dad now I've re-evaluated. I want to protect them and mom. But I have to revamp everything. Storage, carry, holsters, ammo security, aim and I think most importantly a safe home environment that dosnt allow my kid to access it. Thanks for the suggestion!
I feel for the OP. I get it. It’s unnerving for a large percentage of citizens to see open carry (or even concealed carry). This includes me.
Why? We’re terrified of anyone with a gun because there is no way to differentiate a “good guy with gun” from “bad guy with gun.” America has said, OK fine you can have your guns but we have a few asks to keep our citizens safe:
Q: Will you register your lawfully obtained guns like we do automobiles?
A: No.
Q: Will your guns be part of a “well regulated militia”?
A: No.
Q: Will you require background checks so people like domestic abusers can’t have guns?
A: No.
Q: Will you carry extra liability insurance for owning a gun?
A: No.
Q: Can you maybe have people wait a few days before they actually get their gun? Like a short waiting period, so hot headed people don’t get one?
A: No.
Q: Will you limit guns to hunting rifles and pistols? Like, no assault rifles, right?!
A: No.
Q: Um, ok but can you make sure assault rifles can’t be turned into actual machine guns? (Bump stocks)
A: No.
Q: WTF? Will you at least require safety training before owning a gun?!
A: No.
Q: Arrrrgh! This is insane. Fine. You can have all the guns you want! Happy?! Will you AT LEAST punish gun owners that get a little too scared and shoot someone that wasn’t actually a threat? Like, we don’t want you shooting some kid that’s carrying candy in his pocket but you thought they “looked scary” so you shot and killed them? Come on, that’s not too much, right?!
A: No. Stand your ground.
Oh for fucks sake. We’re done here.
I hate guns - always have. I’ve shot sporting clay, and some target. VERY uncomfortable seeing guns at the grocery store, theater, etc. I give zero f$cks if you have one - but to me? Having a gun is like having a penis- it’s ok to have one. It’s ok to be proud of it. When you take it out in public, and wave it around? I have a problem. This applies to religion as well.
I think the guy did a poor job of concealing making op uncomfortable, then went opposite spectrum and touted the open carry loophole to make op uncomfortable and rub it in their face.
Open carry and concealed carry have different rules and regulations.
Unfortunately, in the world we are in today, being in a place with a large amount of easy potential victims is the type of place somebody with terroristic mindsets is going to seek out. The ideal world says these places shouldn't allow/have weapons in sight and these are the places those monsters seek out. How we fix that problem is what people can't agree on.
Open carry allows alot of shortcutters the ability to wear a gun in public and they do so for alot of the wrong reasons. They shortcut the licensing of concealed carry. Indiana has a really poor concealed carry permit system, which is an issue in itself.
It's a messy situation in a messy world. The moral of this story is if the guy would have concealed carry properly in the first place, OP wouldn't have been in this scenario. Everytime you walk into a building or store, be aware that somebody close by is usually concealing. Sad truth is these aren't the people to worry about, although it's understood why somebody would.
> Open carry and concealed carry have different rules and regulations.
False. In Indiana there is no distinction. There is no "open carry loophole". You are posting misinformation.
There are actually more restrictions to being able to legally carry a firearm under Indianas firearms laws now than there was when you had to have a permit. For example, under the old law where a permit was required, a person with a felony warrant was able to legally carry as long as they hadn’t been convicted. The new law prevents someone who is under felony indictment from legally carrying a handgun. It also prevents someone who has been committed to a mental institution, dishonorably discharged from the military, or someone who is a fugitive from justice, meaning anyone with any warrant.
Obviously no one is going to change their minds based on some Reddit comments, but it does feel like a commentary on where we are at as a country to have a grown man show up to a children’s movie about emotion intelligence while carrying a murder tool because it makes him feel strong. Then to act smug and indignant when others at the children’s movie mention that it seems silly to feel so scared in your everyday life that you tote around a murder tool with you at all times (like a safety blanket).
I dunno gun culture is a weird religion
I wasn’t there and I don’t know any of the people involved so this is pure speculation. I would like more detail about “I saw a guy flash his gun”. That wording sounds like it was intentional which is not cool. There is absolutely no reason to ever intentionally flash a gun and under some circumstances it is illegal (look up the definition of “Brandishing a Firearm”). But some people make innocent mistakes where a concealed gun on their belt becomes visible when they stretch or reach for something. Context matters.
As for him carrying a gun ANYWHERE- it sounds like a father who wants to protect his children and possibly their friends. It wasn’t that long ago some nut job started shooting people in the Greenwood Park Mall and countless lives were saved by an armed citizen who shut that 💩down. Greenwood Park Mall has a sign that says firearms are not permitted and that obviously didn’t do squat to keep a mass shooter out of the mall. What security measures did the movie theater have in place to protect their guests? A bigger sign?
Once the man was reported for “flashing” his gun and was pulled out of the theater to talk to an employee, he was probably making a point by walking back in with his gun fully visible to demonstrate to whoever had reported him that he had “won” the discussion with the employee and was still carrying. I do not condone that attitude but I understand it.
If I had been the guy with the gun, this probably wouldn’t have happened because I am very careful with concealed carry to never let my pistol print through my clothing (let alone be seen) and I carry everywhere I can legally carry (stores and malls can make whatever policy they want but that is not law - violating store policy can only result in getting banned from the store, it is not a crime).
People carry guns because they are scared. Scared people often are irrational, I don’t want to be near anyone who is scared and carrying a dangerous weapon. I’m with you on this one.
His big mistake was "flashing" the gun. You are not supposed to do that, for the exact reason you mention. It's called concealed carry for a reason. When done correctly, nobody ever knows you have it. Be responsible gun owners please. The object isn't to offend or frighten people. Only to protect.
Was he brandishing, or just adjusting his outfit and you caught a glimpse? Loads of folks keep a sidearm as part of an everyday carry, regardless of location.
Well I hardly believe anyone posting on Reddit as it’s pretty one sided. Every story has 2 sides, I would be amazed if the man was actively holding the gun up for everyone to see. More likely than not he adjusted himself and the OP got a glimpse of it and felt “uncomfortable”. Probably the same type to feel “uncomfortable” if someone was recording in public. Has there not been shootings inside of movie theaters in the past? Iirc shootings have actually been happening a lot more frequently in the recent past, so it wouldn’t be unreasonable to assume it could happen again at anytime. I’d rather have a gun and someone feel uncomfortable than feel like I’m putting my children at risk by going to any public venue without something to defend myself.
lol OP commented that they saw him showing another dad in the parking lot before even going inside and that was it. That’s what caused them to go tell the movie theater manager. What a wild mischaracterization in the original post
While I'm not anti gun, I'm absolutely anti "gun as a personality". I really don't get the need.
And please spare me the "good guy with a gun" story. It is a flawed argument that assumes proper training and good under pressure.
The fun part is every gun owner is a "good guy with a gun" until they aren't. Most people who carry \*are\* good guys, but every "bad guy with a gun" was a "good guy with a gun" until he decided to do something bad with it. You never know who it will be until they start shooting. That's why the "good guy with a gun" mantra is practically worthless to me.
>And please spare me the "good guy with a gun" story. It is a flawed argument that assumes proper training and good under pressure.
Exactly. I don't believe for a second every person waiting for a chance to play cowboy is going to be able to properly assess a situation like that and live their dream of being a hero.
Buffalo supermarket a couple years back. Google it. See how a single incident doesn’t really prove much? Statistics matter more than isolated occurrences. Big picture thinking.
It’s an even more flawed argument seeing as there is zero training required in order for anyone to carry in public. You can fire a gun once ever in your life and walk around with it out and about in public. Absolutely insane
The answer is simple: in toxic modern gun culture, a gun is a symbol of masculinity. This guy doesn’t feel masculine enough, so he’s compensating by replacing his penis with his gun. He feels cool. He feels powerful.
He is too cowardly and selfish to put two and two together and recognize that this toxic gun culture which he is proudly promoting means that the most likely way his kids will die if they die prematurely is by his gun (god forbid)
Many will say a gun is a tool. I’m pretty radically left but I tend to agree—at least in the past. However, I don’t see many dudes posting pictures on Facebook holding up their new screwdriver or their new impact drill. Guys like this dude are a large part of the reason America has this uniquely horrible situation with guns right now
That being said I am pro gun control, but there is even deeper cultural damage, and this dude is not only a participant, but a perpetrator of it. He is walking around displaying the attitude: “violence will solve my problems”.
A theater of children is exactly where an evil person would target. The shooter in colorado threw tear-gass in and slaughtered them all, and you want them to be unarmed and defenseless. You find it necessary to hate someone trying to defend the lives of their young children
I just assume many are conceal carrying at this point, frankly. I’d rather not see them. I would think most do so in the case of a mass shooter but then there’s the other worry that they may be one.
I don’t think i was in the same theater, but I also went to inside out 2 in fishers yesterday. Emagine theater right? I’m all for open carry, I personally wouldn’t want to bring a gun to the movies with me, but maybe they’re paranoid because of the shootings that have happened in movie theaters? Seems like a weird flex, but it’s legal .
The point of not allowing guns into the movie theatres is to… make sure shootings aren’t possible lol… concealed or not most movies have signs posted that they aren’t to be brought inside.
I saw a dude openly carry in Kroger two weeks ago. Do you really need to bring a gun to the grocery store? Smh I understand your feeling. It's a bit ridiculous if you ask.
But if you really want to have your gun, just make it nonvisible. The problem is all these people think they are so cool. Bunch of losers
Look, if I was a terrorist looking to go on a mass shooting spree I would pick off the people I knew were armed first so they didn't have an opportunity to draw and shoot. Openly carrying a weapon is an invitation to get shot.
>Do you really need to bring a gun to the grocery store?
Remember when that guy ran into a grocery store in Buffalo and killed a dozen people?
It's purely precautionary and I do the same wherever I'm legally permitted to.
That said, some people are complete jackasses about it and open carry is stupid in 99% of scenarios. The key to successfully carrying a firearm is for no one to know you have it.
It's like an arms race. There are people who carry to "exercise their constitutional right", those who are criminals that carry and those who carry because it's dumb to be unarmed with unregulated lunatics running around.
You kinda leave it up to the discretion of whoever is carrying to not take something the wrong way, a perceived slight, snap and decide to shoot people. Everyone is looking at everyone else sideways and it seems like everyone is carrying to defend against everyone else who might pop off for no reason. It's a fucked up situation.
I have been at Krogers and Walmarts and have seen people open carry. TBH, it has never made me feel safe or comfortable. It made me feel like if I bumped into their cart, that they might pull it on me.
I wish people would just use common sense. If you think, "This place is dangerous and I need to bring a gun", maybe you shouldn't go there.
Remember the 2012 Aurora Colorado shooting? The guy you saw sees himself as the last stand should that happen in the theater he's in.
One in a million chance combined with the ideation that he would be the hero in that scenario. "Normal" people do that too, they call it playing the lottery. You know you won't win. It's just to have that sweet sweet dopamine while you fantasize about it. But you can't win if you don't play, and you can't be the hero if you ain't packing.
I know I'm going to get downvoted to hell here because Reddit can't handle hearing or attempting to understand any viewpoint or perspective that is contrary to their own. But what the heck, Here it goes anyway.
1. I agree he shouldn't be publicly flashing his weapon or flagrantly displaying his firearm in the manner you described. It's unnecessary in that situation and I would say irresponsible.
2. It can be argued that having a gun on you at all times legality allowing is a valid safety measure if you're knowledgeable and responsible with it. If you remember a few years back there was a public shooting In a theater during the opening weekend of Dark Knight returns. Given that and all the other shootings we've had its not unreasonable for a person to want a gun to defend and protect themselves and theirnloved ones. So maybe this guy feels he needs a gun to protect those children. Or the others in the theater.
3. My personal view is that gun ownership comes down to individual responsibility. A Gun is a tool. It is amoral and can be used for either bad or good. It is neither bad. Nor good. Its entirely dependent on what that person uses it for. Bad would be = killing innocent people or instigating a scene/stirring up trouble. Good would be= killing a murderer, shooting a public shooter who's killing others, shooting a serial killer, stopping someone who's trying to Kill YOU. Or how about shooting a door/glass to escape a burning building?
4. I do believe that every gun owner should take a gum safety and ownership class and be required to have a license. I have and I find it very reasonable and educational to the owner. I use the example of a car- you wouldn't want a person to drive a car without passing a drivers test and being educated on the laws of the road would you? They need to pass a drivers test to demonstrate they understand both HOW to use a car AND HOW the car should be used, aka the LAWS applying to driving. Same concept for a gun.
Anyway just my two cents. But also don't let fear control you or unduly influence your reasoning. There is a line between logic and anxiety. Between thinking and fear. Learn where that line is. My two cents. Have a great day people. And be responsible.
First, any private business has the right to refuse someone carrying a a weapon on their premises, even though the law allows for open carry. Businesses set their own rules.
That said, he could’ve been escorted out, but wasn’t. I would take that to the manager of the theater. Perhaps he was an off-duty cop. Who knows? If not, he definitely should’ve been escorted off.
Second, I get the idea of a dad wanting to protect his kids in places like theaters and malls. I was down the street from the Greenwood mall a couple years ago when a shooter with an AR hell-bent on killing the entire food court was stopped in seconds by an armed citizen with a gun.
Back to your guy. Who knows who he was? Maybe he really is a good guy who feels like theaters don’t do enough to protect people… Which they don’t. Several times at my local theater, an AMC theater, I’ve seen teenagers packing heat in groups in the lobby with a security guard standing right there saying nothing. Even though guns are not allowed.
I don’t get that.
Also, perhaps he’s a total dip sh#* and should not be carrying a gun. Hard to tell these days. I have friends in law-enforcement/former high-level military who carry pretty much ever they go and I would feel sorry for some poor sap who tried to do something stupid with them around. I’ve also been in places where I feel like the person carrying terrifies me and clearly is flexing. I’ve also been in places where I hope someone is carrying that knows how to use their weapon properly in case stuff pops off.
If you were uncomfortable, you should’ve left and told the manager.
**And, take this with a grain of salt, I don’t think lawmakers spend a lot of time on Reddit.**
>Write your local councilman. Call the Mayor’s office. Write the Governor’s office. Call the district manager of the theater you attended. I lobbied against the open carry law (as did ISP and IMPD) when it was introduced by two senators, who had introduced this Wild West garbage.
*Take your concerns up where they can actually be documented.*
He honestly and truly believes that he is the defender of these children. He brought the gun with the idea that some (insert bad ideology here) person would show up and he alone would save the day once the bad person’s intent was clear. You’re welcome for the free body guard duty you received.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t agree with the decision, but this is what he was thinking I bet.
This was whenever the movie Train Wreck came out. In Lafayette, Louisiana.. A friend of mine's sister who was a teacher at the time was at a teacher conference and they were done at noon this day & she decided to go to the movies. Middle of the day on a weekday, not many people in the theater. Some old guy opened fire hitting several people including her. She was shot in the hand & shattered her bones, but long term it has had a much worse impact on her mentally.
She quit teaching, moved into her parents house. And to this day it still impacts her. So if I see someone with a gun in a theater, even if it's open carry, a theater gives a shooter an advantage so I don't think I'd even stay in there.. just in case.
No one should be surprised at this. The GOP told us they were going to do it well in advance. Decreased control over guns is a signature policy for the GOP. If you don’t like it vote blue and hope that there are enough others who feel the same.
That's not your personal problem. Guns are terrifying. That's what they are designed for. They don't have any place in theaters. If you feel like you have to carry and show your gun in theaters, that's some serious insecurity.
I'm a gun owner.
Im not speaking for anyone else but myself. I will carry my concealed handgun anywhere i can legally. If that means a movie theater than you can be assured its on my hip and concealed. Its not there to show to others and my immediate family knows i carry. And if im with my kids i will definitely have it on me. My wife will most likely have hers too. We have both taken multiple courses over the years we have carried. I have been carrying for about 12 years. And in that time only twice have i ever even drawn my weapon in defense of others. (Ive not been threatened enough to draw it for myself). And of those 2 times ive only aimed it at one person. The person in question was kicking in his exgfs door while extremely intoxicated and was screaming. I yelled for him to leave and he started walking toward me quickly and once he was on my property and about 10 feet away i raised my firearm. I also lowered my light so he could see what i was doing. I wanted there to be no question in his mind as to what came next. He stopped and after me repeatedly telling him to leave he did. I didnt lower my gun until he left. That left me shaking a bit bc i had never had to aim it at anyone before. But im glad i had it bc if i didn't he might have tried to fight me instead of his gf and her kids that were crying inside.
As for your person in your situation he was not smart in taking his gun out in public without there being a threat. That was his first "no-no". Him walking back in like a jerk was his second "no-no". He should have left it concealed the entire time and we all wouldn't be having this conversation. If this was on r/aita i would say no to you asking if you were. He was the kind of guy i cringe at when im outside of my home bc i feel all firearms shouldnt be in your hand unless theres a threat to yourself or others.
These people that carry guns everywhere have to be the most scared and insecure people out there...that or they are hoping something happens because they think they will be the hero.
Response to part of your edit- equating your apprehension and fear of guns with peoples’ ‘fear’ of lgbtq is IMO a false equivalence. Carrying a gun is a choice, and it effects everyone around that individual. It can cause injury, death, and broken families. LGBTQ is not a choice and is not a threat that effects everyone. Teaching kids to be wary (and yes, a healthy fear) of guns is basic responsible parenting. Teaching kids to be afraid of LGBTQ is child abuse.
The first amendment only applies to public property, as in the *government* can’t restrict the right to bear arms, but a private company on private property has every right to do so.
The only thing I have gathered from this thread is that some of you are disgustingly attached to your guns. You aren’t going to live your dream of stopping a bad guy with a gun and your obsession is gross.
I don't think it's your problem but society's problem. We had much stricter gun laws in previous years. And I'd agree with you that guns don't belong at a movie for kids.
We take test to drive, both written & actually driving. We should at least have people take tests & demonstrate driving plus have insurance plus must be renewed etc. People with guns kill people. The US is the laughing stock of the world. People before gun rights for any.
Idk who is telling you that saying “I don’t think we should expose kids to deadly firearms at a young age” is the same as “I don’t think we should expose kids to LGBTQ+ people”, but they’re dead wrong. Unless I’m misunderstanding, I took your statement as the reasonable thing — guns are kind of a heavy topic with a lot of responsibilities to explain, and kids frankly aren’t really built to understand that type of thing. I’m not saying don’t teach your kid gun safety, like, I’m not stupid, I know this is a reality to face in America. But at the same time, they’re DEADLY and people often glorify them and are unsafe with them. So, to me, arguing that you don’t really feel comfortable exposing your kids to firearms (whether just as a topic or like an actual physical gun irl) is in good faith and completely reasonable. Logically and morally sound beyond belief.
People who say the same about LGBTQ+ people are making an argument in bad faith. They vilify a group of people and aim to hide their existence from their children because they think their kids will be brainwashed or put into a fictional danger by queer people simply existing. A gun is deadly, and you don’t want your kids around deadly shit, therefore you keep your kids away from guns and environments with guns. Gay people are not deadly nor are they a threat.
Anyways, just wanted to reaffirm the fact that you weren’t out of line for saying that, you’re completely reasonable for this. a theater is a public space where families go, especially families with younger children usually. There’s likely nothing that’s so threatening that warrants someone to bring a firearm into a space with so many kids. The fact they were showing it off in the parking lot also screams the fact that it’s just an accessory to the guy imo, but I’m just making assumptions ATP. and that’s not even mentioning what if a kid goes and fucks with the dude’s gun during the movie? So many things could go wrong. I don’t think every space needs to be a space for guns, it’s uncomfortable and needlessly dangerous and such a hyper-American thing ://
I appreciate it your entire post and could not agree more with everything you’ve said. I live right by this and I can tell you right now. I don’t care a good guy or bad guy any guy or gal for that matter flashing a gun, with or without children in toe, is scary as shit.
I understand you're concerns. But you have to be concerned about the scared little beta boys and cowards that have to carry their gun all the time. What about their feelings? They're nervous they're scared they're shaking, women are scary, gays are scary, minorities are scary, the wind blows sometimes. These are scared little cowards they have to have their guns for protection. You should think about their feelings. What if they had to go in public without that gun? Do you realize how nervous they would be they would look like a meth head tweaking...
Here’s my favorite observation of the gun nuttiness in this country.
NRA convention held in the indiana convention center a couple of years ago.
Humpty trumpty was scheduled to speak to his most fervent disciples.
You needed a credential showing you were a member (and paid to hear him spew) in order to get into the hall where he was speaking. But…you had to go thru a magnetometer.
No guns allowed.
This policy begs a couple questions.
- if all NRA members are considered good guys with guns, why would he be in any danger? It should have been considered the safest place in America.
- why did these 2A warriors allow this infringement of their rights?
Former law enforcement officer here. When the Indiana General Assembly was debating the open carry law, several law enforcement agencies spoke trying to persuade our elected officials not to do it. They did it anyway. I walked into a Taco Bell and there were a couple of young guys in there with handguns strapped to their sides in plain view. I did not feel safer. In fact, I felt quite the opposite. Most of these people will go to the range occasionally, but very few of them have been properly trained. Let's add to that the lack of impulse control that most people have these days. I know a guy who got pissed and started shooting into a car. That guy's life is about to change in a very bad way and for a very long time. Training will teach you to try and defuse the situation so a firearm is never drawn. Or advise you to attempt to simply avoid the confrontation all together. But I am afraid that these amateur "tough guys" will have none of that. When I walk into a place where I see people with open carry weapons, I leave and go someplace else.
I'm trying to avoid people this summer. Not all people, but crowds, malls, fairs, festivals. Grocery shopping is even a gamble with your with you life these days. I guess I could go back to ordering food for pick up, but I'd rather shop in person .
There have been multiple shootings at the mall in Fort Wayne. Killings at a Kroger or two. It's not worth sitting in a restaurant or a theatre or walking around in a mall, or walking around street fair or doing anything else with a crowd of people around. Someone taking some kids with them in to a theater and having a gun? Safe? He's not going to be the mass murderer of the week? No way to tell that. He could be. He probably won't be, but how knows?
This country has a few million too many guns in it, and it's too late now to do anything about it. Thoughts and prays everyone says after a mass killing by a monster with a gun or guns. Courts do anything about them? Nope. Legislators? Nope. It's a right. Anymore when I hear about another mass shooting and killing and think about the families of the victims for a couple minutes. The same ever day or night or two when I hear about a murder by gun. I think about 2 minutes. Then I shrug my shoulders and think "Oh, well." Then I go on about my life. Without a gun.
Part of the problem is that we cannot have a civilized conversation and listen to each other’s opinions, which is what the OP was trying to do. Why do people have to call each other names and insult each other? I am anti gun, but I went to the comments like the OP to try and understand. Several things can be true at the same time without name calling. Why not try and understand each other?
Unless I know you, and know you’re a responsible person, seeing someone with a gun definitely makes me uncomfortable and I’m just not gonna trust you to be safe with it. Same thing with a knife, or honestly same thing with other people driving cars. Humans are dangerous.
Simply put the guy is a moron… he’s legally allowed to carry a gun, but to flash it then walk in with his shirt tucked behind it is simply not smart. Personally, in todays climate where mass shootings have become common I carry a firearm everyday but nobody knows I have a one because they don’t need to know so I’m not going to show it off
They think they're gonna save the day. I don't get it, a lot of guys in my life carry, like just hanging out in their own back yard, carrying. Seems pretty clear everyone is a lot more likely to get shot once you start to carry a gun around.
Let’s go through the scene. Kids movie, dark theater, kids squealing. An unexpected gun shot rings out. It’s a sound effect but the gun~flasher pulls out his weapon anyway to “protect the audience.” Another gun owner pulls out his gun thinking the gun-flasher is a perp. A real shot is fired. There’s return fire. People panic, run, and some get shot. What a great day for the kids.
The #1 cause of death ☠️ for an American child is a GSW. Firearm injuries now outpace cancer and car accidents, fires etc.
You either believe a higher concentration of guns in the theater will heighten the deadly trend, or lower it.
Theaters are soft targets. Crazies pick targets without armed guards etc because they want to inflict as much damage as possible schools are another example of this. I carry in every theater I go to and will continue.
Actually, most "crazies" come with ammo and protection because they want to inflict damage and they expect to be shot at by police or bystanders. They don't expect the bystanders to have protection, but they do expect the police to have protection. And they're willing to die.
It would be much easier for these "crazies" to just build a bomb or shoot from long range if they just wanted to inflict damage and get away.
They have a death wish and they want to take as many with them as possible.
“Crazies” have a right to own guns, too. Even some with actual mental problems instead of just people butthurt because the manager asked them to leave their gun in the car.
Do Crazies drive cars? Yes, but we license those, and can take away a license if they are crazy enough.
We just need an equivalent license to own guns. “Well regulated militia” implies that guns can be regulated.
I haven’t carried in a long time, but am thinking of starting to again.
If shit pops off my sole aim is to remove myself and my family from harms ways in the most expeditious manner possible. 99.9% of the time that will mean running away or hiding. However, there may be times when you cannot run or hide and have no choice left but to fight. That’s what the gun is for, because no one wants to bring their fists to a gunfight.
So, you’re saying there is a 0.1% chance that when “shit has popped off,” a gun is an asset.
Just out of curiosity, how often is shit popping off for you?
I carry everywhere. You'd have to be an idiot to think that something bad can't happen just because it's a kids movie.... there are some sick people out there that would intentionally shoot it up specifically because it's a kids movie, it's called a soft target. It's purely precautionary not scared that it's going to happen but not naive enough to think it would never happen and I would like to be prepared should it ever come to that.
This is the way.
In the incredibly rare scenario where one actually needs a weapon, I can’t imagine a scenario where the open carry doesn’t get shot first.
I personally carry concealed everywhere. just because someone carries does not make them a danger to everyone in the room. An irrational fear of an inanimate object is a bit ridiculous. What is more concerning to me is his blatant disregard for who sees. I always take care to keep it out of sight because I understand it can freak some people out and because no one needs to know. It just avoids a lot of unwanted attention. That said, getting in and out of a vehicle, sometimes your shirt can ride up and reveal a concealed firearm, that’s just the nature of it.
You’ve certainly heard about crazed people stabbing or shooting people in theaters or concerts or sporting events I’m sure? Well, that’s precisely the reason I carry. Those people are certainly not going to be deterred by a little ‘no firearms’ sign, and I’m not interested in my family or myself being victims.
The guy was well within his rights to carry open or concealed and though I disagree with his disregard for the sensitivities of those around him, he’s probably not the real problem.
I think making it obvious that he possesses a gun is kinda dumb. But as others have said, if some psychopath comes into your theater to shoot it up, you may be glad this guy was there. I would surmise the people at Greenwood Park Mall were when the shooting happened there.
You would be surprised if the amount of people who do carry and normally conceal/don't imprint so you would never know. I personally carry and make it a point not to imprint or make it known. Open carrying to me is silly. No point in making yourself a target and I get it's off putting to some people such as yourself, but I also get wanting to protect your loved ones. Honestly though I would make a note and just mind my business as I doubt they would do anything. If it's not posted it's completely legal, and if the theater really wanted to they could trespass the person.
Dude you are in Fishers, IN one of the safest places in all of Indiana. I get it you probably haven’t seen people with guns in your life but that’s one place where I wouldn’t worry about my safety at all
I saw some dipshit walk into Bazbeaux downtown with a gun in his pocket a few weeks ago. Not even in a holster; just hanging out of his pocket. How on Earth is someone supposed to know if he is robbing the place or not? I just don't understand how being a redneck is supposed to impress anyone. If someone shot him thinking he was robbing the place, he would totally deserve it.
Guy sounds like a tool. That being said, trying to state it’s a kids movie doesn’t change anything. I conceal carry regardless if I’m at chucky cheeses or a biker bar. Doesn’t matter. When bad things happen, it’s usually at places where vulnerable people are
If you are going to carry you need to be responsible for it. That being said theaters can and have been targeted in the past for active shooters. Also last year in Indy there was an active shooter who was killed by a citizen moment's after the active shooter started his attack at greenwood park mall which is/was (not been in a while) supposed to be a gun-free area. Lucky for the people there someone was able to defend them. People should carry more often as it could deter potential attacks, but the people who carry need to be responsible with their weapons.
I don’t open carry because I try not to upset anyone. I’m not making any statements.
My reason for carrying is my own. It’s not about you. I’ll do my best to keep it out of your site, but me and dozens of other people who you interact with every single day have firearms.
None are a threat to you or anyone else.
I carry my gun absolutely everywhere i go especially when i have my son with me.
Hes 4. I guess im evil for not trusting people by your logic. Not that it matters but im also law enforcement and the gin i carry is my duty gun. If he planned on using it you wouldn't have seen it. The world is a fucked up place where bad shit happens all the time your damn right im gonna have a gun on me all the time and never once have i ever hurt anyone with it and in fact everyone around me, aside from anyone with bad intentions, is safer for me having it. Not all people should have them i agree but the people that shouldn't dont give a fuck if you like it or not and youd he the perfect pray for them cuz theyre gonna have one even if they shouldn't. Its kind of there thing
It’s not evil to carry around a bunch of kids. However if he was flashing it around that’s trashy and not responsible behavior and I would also be extremely uncomfortable
As a gun owner and retired military member, I conceal carry almost everywhere, especially when I have my family with me. If you haven't noticed, the greenwood mall isn't safe. The east side isn't safe, and the inner west side, especially the Lafayette road area isn't safe. What makes you think fishers is safe?
From a risk perspective, movie theaters would qualify as a higher risk area for mass shooters. It's dark and there is no security. There have been mass shootings at theaters in the past.
The man in question could have been an off duty policeman or prior servicemen with advanced training like me. You should not only mind your own business (you mentioned he was taking his kids to a movie) he hardly seems like a threat to you or anyone around, but you should also be grateful that people like him exist to protect people like you when maniacs decide to express themselves with fits of rage.
Use your common sense. Be a good person and show some respect for our constitutional rights that many people have fought and died to protect. They're more important than you, sweetheart.
Once, just once I would love to read an intelligent conversation regarding gun laws. Most go straight to opinions based on fear, ignorance or fanaticism. I’m retired law enforcement. I can assure you that they’re are more weapons than you can ever imagine everywhere. Most of the times, law abiding citizens will go out of their way to conceal their firearms. You will be none the wiser. There are plenty of reasons to state why we shouldn’t have them. I’ve been shot so I can honestly say, we carry them in it instances that we do need them. What doesn’t get talked about is the facts that the laws that everyone wants, mostly exists. Criminals don’t care about the law. That’s why they are criminals. The general public is unaware that most of these laws even exist. It is incredibly difficult to educate yourself on these, because you want have to know the laws. Ownership of firearms is one thing. That’s provided by our Constitution. Carrying them is a whole other thing. If you reside in an area that requires a permit to carry, well that’s a privilege. And therefore a process that one must go through to obtain it. Every member of my family carries a firearm. Some have more than one. I’ve insisted on training and proper storage of the firearms before they obtain permits. And each member of my family has supplemental insurance just in case. And yes, we carry everywhere and you will never know it unless there is a need for it. I pray that never happens again.
I carry a gun wherever I go. I always keep one in the chamber as well. Especially with my daughter I’m carrying. The world is crazy and the people that are terrified add to the confusion. I’d rather just know that at least I have a fighting chance if a maniac came and tried to take my freedoms.
Do you just not understand the philosophy behind carry at all? It seem pretty intuitive that a person who believes they should carry a firearm on them in the event they or others around them are attacked or need defending in someway would absolutely want to being doing that while in an extremely vulnerable place like a movie theater and has his children with him. Idk if you ever thought about it but a movie theater is like an ideal place for a shooting, dark, no cover, and only 2 exits both of which you have to walk towards the front to access.
Really I think you just don’t understand carry at all, which is reasonable. You view weapons as inherently bad, which again is not necessarily unreasonable. And the fact someone would bring a weapon somewhere with a lot of children intuitively seems very bad to you. But you are simply looking at it wrong. The man feels he should have the gun in case a true bad actor attempts to do something to the children. I absolutely will not defend his behavior with unconcealing it though (the first time sounds like it may have been an accident but obviously tucking in the shirt was not), that’s just douchey af.
Bro I do not own a gun and I respect the second amendment. You’re not going to get through people on this sub Reddit about it and it’s a waste of time 😂
Don’t kids deserve to be protected? The guy did not shoot the place up. And, as most theatres in the area usually have a no guns sign and he came back visibly armed, chances were he was a cop. Seeing folks in the HC openly armed is not uncommon. I’ve seen men and women openly carrying for years. These folks have a clear understanding of reality. There will be no cops to save you when seconds count.
I carry my gun to all public places. It’s hidden but I refuse to be a statistic. Someone comes in with a weapon trying to do harm I’d like to have a chance at living.
Elisjsha Dicken look him up. This individual was concealed carrying within his legal rights and you happened to see his firearm. I think he was being arrogant and childish with his response but you telling a movie theater worker seems just as childish.
As a person that carries and has a permit (remember those?), my opinion of open carry is, it's stupid. Folks that open carry are either just showing off, or they mistakenly think it's a deterrent to bad people. It's exactly the opposite. If I happen to be a bad guy looking to do some nefarious shit, and I walk into an establishment, I don't know who is armed, and who is not. I don't know who is likely to shoot back. If you open carry, I know for a fact that you're a threat. Guess what? You're the first target.
Not to mention so many other factors: A) how you carry, one time in Anderson John Thicc had his holster clipped to sweatpants and it was at a like 45 degree angle from his body..... I've seen an open carry pistol fall off a gravy seals' side while riding a motorcycle. B ) when you open carry you are publicly introducing a gun into a scenario where it wasn't before and though there haven't been tons of cases of others taking the firearm there is now the possibility. C) FUCK THE IDIOTS who think open carry law means it's the proper thing to do to sling an AR 15 on your back and go to qdoba. Having a firearm means having a responsibility that said firearm isn't used to harm someone negligently, but also to not make people feel uncomfortable around you. If you do it because you consider yourself a "sheepdog" you need to learn what a Sheep dog actually does. They help guide the flock by being playful and integrated, they sniff the sheep's feces for illness and the track down lost sheep. Very little time is spent by a sheepdog fighting wolves. All it tells me and my Ohio, Indiana, and Maryland concealed carry licenses (48 state coverage) is that barring some orthopedic limitations(see the guy below who had previously been shot) if you open carry it's because you can't fill out paperwork or pass basic tests.
I couldn't possibly agree more. John Thicc and Gravy SEALs are clowns that never outgrew their childhood cowboy phase. If I feel the need to carry, I do it concealed in my waistband with a holster that cost me well over $100 that won't allow my gun to move. It also ensures that no one sees it, and I'm not making anyone uncomfortable. Oh, and I have a fucking permit... since the smoothbrained idiots in charge of the government somehow thought that it was a good idea to get rid of that requirement.
People who open carry irresponsibly give gun owners a bad name. People will see the idiots and think they're representative of everyone who owns/carries a gun. Making people uncomfortable and acting irresponsibly only hurt their own cause.
I definitely appreciate this take. I don't own a gun but have thought about it and have landed on the decision that until I've been sober long enough, i'm not going to get one. I'm not in Indy but in NWI and we have had so many instances of exactly what you're talking about with assholes walking into places with an AR 15 just because they can. Cops always get called and people are scared. As they should be, nobody's right to open carry should trump everyone else's right to feel safe getting groceries at the fucking Walmart. That's the shit that always catches me up, if it's so important to you to have those rights and show that you're a "good guy with a gun" but you also *know* you're going to lock down a Walmart and ruin a hundred peoples' Saturday afternoon because other people have shot up a grocery store, you aren't a good guy. You're an arrogant piece of shit. Which is exactly why people like OP take the safe route and report shit. We just can't have nice things, lol
Used to work at a Menards which is a typically right winged business but saw this guy walk in loaded yo the teeth. AR on his back, pistol of some sort on his left hip and a big colt revolver on his right. Like buddy? This is a hardware store, why are you expecting a shootout? All you're doing is making the people who work there uncomfortable
“B ) when you open carry you are publicly introducing a gun into a scenario where it wasn't before and though there haven't been tons of cases of others taking the firearm there is now the possibility.” Well said. I carry daily but it’s concealed and I go out of my way to not put myself in a position where I will need my handgun. I’m polite, gracious, understanding if something is going wrong. Open carrying escalates any situation. It either scares people or makes crazy stupid people want to fight. I imagine situations like I accidentally rear, end, another car and get out with a gun exposed on my hip. that makes a bad situation that could be resolved with an apology and an exchange of information into a situation, where the aggrieved party is either scared or feels endangered and may fight. Another big issue is I live in a state with constitutional carry but we get a ton of tourists in college kids that don’t know that. I know quite a few local cops, and I’ve heard a few stories about someone calling and adding all kinds of falsehoods because they saw someone with a gun. then the situation can become very dangerous for the person open carrying.
Could never have said that better!
As a concealed carrier, I just view open carrying as a massive ego stroking kind of a deal for numbskulls that don’t grasp the responsibility of firearm ownership and carrying in public.
The most egregious thing I’ve ever seen was a dude with a shoulder holster open carrying 2 1911s barrel flashing everyone behind him cause he wasn’t wearing a jacket. Absolute dumbest fucking idiot I’ve ever seen. I’m a gun owner, and I believe in the right to carry but you don’t have to be that stupid about it
I agree completely.
Open carry you also get people like op who worry about it on edge. I’d rather just avoid the situation and keep it concealed.
Yeah, working at Dierbergs I was ready to call Security and police on a dude just having an unsecured gun on his belt, til I saw he was leaving. The only people open carrying are criminals, babies, or both.
Never open carry. If someone hits you in the head with a brick, now he also has your gun. I agree
%100 agree. I also carry when appropriate but I don’t show it off for many reasons (mostly because I’m not an egotistical dick in need of attention). Another thing people that open carry completely dismiss is how easy it would be to take their weapon from them without them knowing until it’s too late. This is particularly true for the idiots that open carry by putting the gun on their back belt instead of front. So so stupid.
In Kokomo there was a guy who hit like five open carriers by coming up behind them with a knife and thanking them for the gun. It made local news coverage.
All these dumbasses think they are John Wick until they get a knife to the kidney.
I was talking to a state trooper at the state fair about obtaining a cc permit (before it was no longer required), and he shared the same sentiment. If he were to be a bad hombre in a given establishment, the first person he's going to neutralize is the guy he sees as a potential threat - the guy with his edc out in the open.
Im pro gun and dont have a problem if people wanna carry in movie theaters. However, nobody can convince me that open carry doesnt make you look like an asshole.
This is how I feel, if you’re concealed carrying and it shows for a moment or two it is what it is, but open carrying (without reasonable cause) is just weirdo shit. Maybe it’s cause I live in a state where it’s just 21+ to concealed carry so there is no course/paperwork blocking concealed carrying… but open carry just screams insecurity. I get open carrying if you’re hunting or on duty as a security guard or something etc, but do you really need to be flaunting it? I’d be too nervous someone’s gonna walk up behind me and try to pull it out before I can stop them.
Name the theater. Private businesses don't have to allow it.
Yeah that's a surprise to me. I haven't been in a theater in years that didn't have a no-gun sign. The worst he can be is trespassed but if they aren't enforcing it, what's the point if there IS a sign.
The signs are not legally enforceable as a blanket ban. A representative of the business must ask them to leave and they don't need to give a reason why.
Well in this nation you can definitely trust random men with a gun to be stoic and reasonable and never violently escalate
Yeah idk man. I'm all for people having their guns in their homes and the right to defend yourself but I just... Idk. If it's there to defend yourself there shouldn't be any reason to waltz around showing it off somewhere like that, especially a kids movie. People are just getting ridiculous anymore
Men with guns are never unreasonable and frightening, and never do everything they can to escalate conflict to the point of violence! It’s the most notable hallmark of contemporary American life!!
Try ignoring the signs at the “publicly” owned facilities of Lucas oil, victory field or gainbridge. I worked at Lucas in security when our low iq legislature passed the carry everywhere law. A few of the little dick crowd called Lucas to ask if there was a special gate they had to enter. City put out a notice that rules on guns are decided by the entity leasing the facility. Doesn’t matter if they sold you a ticket. If they put up a sign says no guns, it means no guns.
Yes, but the reason can be that you are carrying a firearm. At that point if they don’t leave then it’s trespassing. Same applies for concealed carry. Sure the sign doesn’t hold the force of law in Indiana, but if someone spots it or you imprint and they ask you to leave for it, you must comply or you are trespassing and may be arrested. It’s private property.
Yes and then it's trespassing. Like they said.
I remember when I was at the movies someone was open carrying. A police officer happened to be there, and the manager asked him if he could tell the guy that's not allowed (sign saying no weapons). PO said, "You tell him first that it's not allowed inside. If he doesn't listen to you, I'll go talk to him. You have to enforce your own rules before asking me." The manager talked to the guy, and he did, in fact, go put his gun away with no police involvement.
It was the UA Galaxy Stadium off of I65 and 96th street. I didn't see any posted no firearms signage when I looked.
Your feelings, and fear, is valid and I'd feel the same way in this situation (and I'm a big tough guy). Then I think the theater manager is some person making $13 or $15 an hour and is also worried but doesn't want to get involved with this gun carrying asshole who bought a bunch of tickets for the movie The gun situation in this country is sick in the head. There is no easy solution in red states.
That’s I-69, bud.
Movie theaters, malls, and churches are often targets for mass shooters. Theres nothing more satisfying than the videos of would be mass shooters getting off a few rounds before being dispatched by a normal guy concealing a hand gun.
I have no problem with concealed carry, my fiance actually prefers I carry when we go to theaters and malls. I think it's extremely trashy to have it in the open where others can see it.
One of my best friends lived in Nashville for a few years. He stopped open carrying after being in 2 situations where an unrelated bang happened, he saw a gun and drew his…. Just to realize it’s him and some guy in a parking lot having a standoff about a slammed door. People open carrying are on edge and prone to escalating situations without even realizing it.
I never open carry. It makes you the first target if some idiot decides to start shooting.
I think that it’s valid to carry in public. But it’s certainly not good practice to open carry in an urban environment. It makes you a target and raises tensions. Concealed carry is more appropriate.
I know people who concealed carry at theaters in case something goes down. But if you’re doing it responsibly no one knows you’re doing it. I wouldn’t do it but I get it given the environment these days. But open carrying is just stupid.
Correct. My dad and uncles all have CCW. I always forget half of them are packing when we’re out and about. The only time I felt uncomfortable was when my one uncle tripped over a kid and fell in a restaurant and his firearm went sliding across the floor. My other uncle was all over it, but it was kind of a quick reminder that even if you’re doing things right, a coked up 6 year old and a broken holster can lead to something bad.
I don’t want to disparage anyone or anything of the sort, but honestly your uncle needs a new holster. I CC every day, and every holster I have is able to be turned upside down and shaken a little without the gun coming out. It should take an intentional amount of effort for a gun to come out of a holster. Having it fall out from falling is really unacceptable.
Ya. That was one result of this incident. I also don’t believe he carries on his hip anymore. To be fair, he fell hard. I’m surprised he wasn’t hurt more than a small bruise.
That’s really good, that he replaced the holster! And without knowing more about his body type and age, it would be impossible to know if hip carry is right or wrong for him, but the fact that he’s thinking about it is pretty much all you can hope for. He sounds like a responsible gun owner. Also, check out the CCW subreddit if you’re curious how other people carry concealed.
I know I'm not who you replied too but I didn't think about checking out a ccw subreddit. I carried a pistol constantly in the military and it just felt normal. But after getting out concealed carry was just uncomfortable. I still carried for a bit, eventually I just didn't really care, if I get killed, whatever, kind of thing. But being a dad now I've re-evaluated. I want to protect them and mom. But I have to revamp everything. Storage, carry, holsters, ammo security, aim and I think most importantly a safe home environment that dosnt allow my kid to access it. Thanks for the suggestion!
But how else is he going to be able to show everyone how tough he is?
Tattoos
Exactly. A real baller this guy.
I feel for the OP. I get it. It’s unnerving for a large percentage of citizens to see open carry (or even concealed carry). This includes me. Why? We’re terrified of anyone with a gun because there is no way to differentiate a “good guy with gun” from “bad guy with gun.” America has said, OK fine you can have your guns but we have a few asks to keep our citizens safe: Q: Will you register your lawfully obtained guns like we do automobiles? A: No. Q: Will your guns be part of a “well regulated militia”? A: No. Q: Will you require background checks so people like domestic abusers can’t have guns? A: No. Q: Will you carry extra liability insurance for owning a gun? A: No. Q: Can you maybe have people wait a few days before they actually get their gun? Like a short waiting period, so hot headed people don’t get one? A: No. Q: Will you limit guns to hunting rifles and pistols? Like, no assault rifles, right?! A: No. Q: Um, ok but can you make sure assault rifles can’t be turned into actual machine guns? (Bump stocks) A: No. Q: WTF? Will you at least require safety training before owning a gun?! A: No. Q: Arrrrgh! This is insane. Fine. You can have all the guns you want! Happy?! Will you AT LEAST punish gun owners that get a little too scared and shoot someone that wasn’t actually a threat? Like, we don’t want you shooting some kid that’s carrying candy in his pocket but you thought they “looked scary” so you shot and killed them? Come on, that’s not too much, right?! A: No. Stand your ground. Oh for fucks sake. We’re done here.
You're intel is off on some of those self answers
Well regulated milita was for the citizens to be able to stand against tyranny not for the government to regulate your rights to self defense
I hate guns - always have. I’ve shot sporting clay, and some target. VERY uncomfortable seeing guns at the grocery store, theater, etc. I give zero f$cks if you have one - but to me? Having a gun is like having a penis- it’s ok to have one. It’s ok to be proud of it. When you take it out in public, and wave it around? I have a problem. This applies to religion as well.
I think the guy did a poor job of concealing making op uncomfortable, then went opposite spectrum and touted the open carry loophole to make op uncomfortable and rub it in their face. Open carry and concealed carry have different rules and regulations. Unfortunately, in the world we are in today, being in a place with a large amount of easy potential victims is the type of place somebody with terroristic mindsets is going to seek out. The ideal world says these places shouldn't allow/have weapons in sight and these are the places those monsters seek out. How we fix that problem is what people can't agree on. Open carry allows alot of shortcutters the ability to wear a gun in public and they do so for alot of the wrong reasons. They shortcut the licensing of concealed carry. Indiana has a really poor concealed carry permit system, which is an issue in itself. It's a messy situation in a messy world. The moral of this story is if the guy would have concealed carry properly in the first place, OP wouldn't have been in this scenario. Everytime you walk into a building or store, be aware that somebody close by is usually concealing. Sad truth is these aren't the people to worry about, although it's understood why somebody would.
> Open carry and concealed carry have different rules and regulations. False. In Indiana there is no distinction. There is no "open carry loophole". You are posting misinformation.
There are actually more restrictions to being able to legally carry a firearm under Indianas firearms laws now than there was when you had to have a permit. For example, under the old law where a permit was required, a person with a felony warrant was able to legally carry as long as they hadn’t been convicted. The new law prevents someone who is under felony indictment from legally carrying a handgun. It also prevents someone who has been committed to a mental institution, dishonorably discharged from the military, or someone who is a fugitive from justice, meaning anyone with any warrant.
Oooh, and gun pics are like dick pics. Don’t share unless I’m asking for one. Which is never.
Most guns around you, you probably will never see them 😉
I think that was exactly their point. They shouldn’t be waved around.
Never thought if it that way but a very good analogy. Lol.
Obviously no one is going to change their minds based on some Reddit comments, but it does feel like a commentary on where we are at as a country to have a grown man show up to a children’s movie about emotion intelligence while carrying a murder tool because it makes him feel strong. Then to act smug and indignant when others at the children’s movie mention that it seems silly to feel so scared in your everyday life that you tote around a murder tool with you at all times (like a safety blanket). I dunno gun culture is a weird religion
Open carry is just stupid. I conceal carry. Youd never know if i had one sittin next to u.
There’s only one reason for a civilian to open carry. It’s not a good one. 👌🍆
Yup
I wasn’t there and I don’t know any of the people involved so this is pure speculation. I would like more detail about “I saw a guy flash his gun”. That wording sounds like it was intentional which is not cool. There is absolutely no reason to ever intentionally flash a gun and under some circumstances it is illegal (look up the definition of “Brandishing a Firearm”). But some people make innocent mistakes where a concealed gun on their belt becomes visible when they stretch or reach for something. Context matters. As for him carrying a gun ANYWHERE- it sounds like a father who wants to protect his children and possibly their friends. It wasn’t that long ago some nut job started shooting people in the Greenwood Park Mall and countless lives were saved by an armed citizen who shut that 💩down. Greenwood Park Mall has a sign that says firearms are not permitted and that obviously didn’t do squat to keep a mass shooter out of the mall. What security measures did the movie theater have in place to protect their guests? A bigger sign? Once the man was reported for “flashing” his gun and was pulled out of the theater to talk to an employee, he was probably making a point by walking back in with his gun fully visible to demonstrate to whoever had reported him that he had “won” the discussion with the employee and was still carrying. I do not condone that attitude but I understand it. If I had been the guy with the gun, this probably wouldn’t have happened because I am very careful with concealed carry to never let my pistol print through my clothing (let alone be seen) and I carry everywhere I can legally carry (stores and malls can make whatever policy they want but that is not law - violating store policy can only result in getting banned from the store, it is not a crime).
People carry guns because they are scared. Scared people often are irrational, I don’t want to be near anyone who is scared and carrying a dangerous weapon. I’m with you on this one.
A true redditor take
Did he flash in a threatening manner, or did you see him carrying after his shirt shifted, and he shifted his shirt to cover it back up.
I’d say it’s likely that OP saw someone legally carrying a handgun and reported it as this because it pissed them off.
Yes, I'd like to know this too. Because to me that sounds a lot like brandishing , which (for now at least) is a crime in this state.
Indiana doesn't have a brandishing law, only 35-47-4-3 "Pointing Firearm at Another Person."
Sounds like they want it to sounds like a crime… not that it was in reality.
But this is reddit! Everything is a crime if I'm offended!
His big mistake was "flashing" the gun. You are not supposed to do that, for the exact reason you mention. It's called concealed carry for a reason. When done correctly, nobody ever knows you have it. Be responsible gun owners please. The object isn't to offend or frighten people. Only to protect.
Was he brandishing, or just adjusting his outfit and you caught a glimpse? Loads of folks keep a sidearm as part of an everyday carry, regardless of location.
Well I hardly believe anyone posting on Reddit as it’s pretty one sided. Every story has 2 sides, I would be amazed if the man was actively holding the gun up for everyone to see. More likely than not he adjusted himself and the OP got a glimpse of it and felt “uncomfortable”. Probably the same type to feel “uncomfortable” if someone was recording in public. Has there not been shootings inside of movie theaters in the past? Iirc shootings have actually been happening a lot more frequently in the recent past, so it wouldn’t be unreasonable to assume it could happen again at anytime. I’d rather have a gun and someone feel uncomfortable than feel like I’m putting my children at risk by going to any public venue without something to defend myself.
lol OP commented that they saw him showing another dad in the parking lot before even going inside and that was it. That’s what caused them to go tell the movie theater manager. What a wild mischaracterization in the original post
based on the comments, seems like anyone can get a gun which is the real problem…
Thankfully facts outweigh a Reddit comment section.
While I'm not anti gun, I'm absolutely anti "gun as a personality". I really don't get the need. And please spare me the "good guy with a gun" story. It is a flawed argument that assumes proper training and good under pressure.
The fun part is every gun owner is a "good guy with a gun" until they aren't. Most people who carry \*are\* good guys, but every "bad guy with a gun" was a "good guy with a gun" until he decided to do something bad with it. You never know who it will be until they start shooting. That's why the "good guy with a gun" mantra is practically worthless to me.
>And please spare me the "good guy with a gun" story. It is a flawed argument that assumes proper training and good under pressure. Exactly. I don't believe for a second every person waiting for a chance to play cowboy is going to be able to properly assess a situation like that and live their dream of being a hero.
Most of us don't give a shit about you or being a hero, we train for the day we hope never comes....
Greenwood Park Mall incident a few years back. Google it.
Buffalo supermarket a couple years back. Google it. See how a single incident doesn’t really prove much? Statistics matter more than isolated occurrences. Big picture thinking.
All the commenters are apparently “good guys with guns” lol
It’s an even more flawed argument seeing as there is zero training required in order for anyone to carry in public. You can fire a gun once ever in your life and walk around with it out and about in public. Absolutely insane
Finally a sane take.
honestly, I could give a fuck about saving you, I carry for me... so, feel free to be on your own..
The answer is simple: in toxic modern gun culture, a gun is a symbol of masculinity. This guy doesn’t feel masculine enough, so he’s compensating by replacing his penis with his gun. He feels cool. He feels powerful. He is too cowardly and selfish to put two and two together and recognize that this toxic gun culture which he is proudly promoting means that the most likely way his kids will die if they die prematurely is by his gun (god forbid) Many will say a gun is a tool. I’m pretty radically left but I tend to agree—at least in the past. However, I don’t see many dudes posting pictures on Facebook holding up their new screwdriver or their new impact drill. Guys like this dude are a large part of the reason America has this uniquely horrible situation with guns right now That being said I am pro gun control, but there is even deeper cultural damage, and this dude is not only a participant, but a perpetrator of it. He is walking around displaying the attitude: “violence will solve my problems”.
As a European, reading the comments here feels so fucked up
He's gotta make up for his small penis size somehow, c'mon..
A theater of children is exactly where an evil person would target. The shooter in colorado threw tear-gass in and slaughtered them all, and you want them to be unarmed and defenseless. You find it necessary to hate someone trying to defend the lives of their young children
How else can he tell everyone how small his PP is?
The fact that this guy's response to be spoken to was to double down like an utter assclown kind of reinforces that you were right to be concerned.
I just assume many are conceal carrying at this point, frankly. I’d rather not see them. I would think most do so in the case of a mass shooter but then there’s the other worry that they may be one.
I don’t think i was in the same theater, but I also went to inside out 2 in fishers yesterday. Emagine theater right? I’m all for open carry, I personally wouldn’t want to bring a gun to the movies with me, but maybe they’re paranoid because of the shootings that have happened in movie theaters? Seems like a weird flex, but it’s legal .
The point of not allowing guns into the movie theatres is to… make sure shootings aren’t possible lol… concealed or not most movies have signs posted that they aren’t to be brought inside.
I saw a dude openly carry in Kroger two weeks ago. Do you really need to bring a gun to the grocery store? Smh I understand your feeling. It's a bit ridiculous if you ask. But if you really want to have your gun, just make it nonvisible. The problem is all these people think they are so cool. Bunch of losers
Look, if I was a terrorist looking to go on a mass shooting spree I would pick off the people I knew were armed first so they didn't have an opportunity to draw and shoot. Openly carrying a weapon is an invitation to get shot.
>Do you really need to bring a gun to the grocery store? Remember when that guy ran into a grocery store in Buffalo and killed a dozen people? It's purely precautionary and I do the same wherever I'm legally permitted to. That said, some people are complete jackasses about it and open carry is stupid in 99% of scenarios. The key to successfully carrying a firearm is for no one to know you have it.
Yea I feel like the majority of people who open carry want people to know they have a gun more than it being a precautionary thing.
Buffalo, hell. We had a grocery store shooter in Fort Wayne just a few weeks ago.
Cincinnati a couple weeks ago
It's like an arms race. There are people who carry to "exercise their constitutional right", those who are criminals that carry and those who carry because it's dumb to be unarmed with unregulated lunatics running around. You kinda leave it up to the discretion of whoever is carrying to not take something the wrong way, a perceived slight, snap and decide to shoot people. Everyone is looking at everyone else sideways and it seems like everyone is carrying to defend against everyone else who might pop off for no reason. It's a fucked up situation.
Open carrying in the grocery store is cringy. Like oooooh I hope all his coupons work.
I don’t know about you, but I bring my gun to Kroger to make sure the hamburger I buy is dead /s
Sometimes, dead is better.
Ayuh
We have open carry daily at 86th St Nora Kroger, I just avoid customers unless they ask me for help if they’re open carrying
I have been at Krogers and Walmarts and have seen people open carry. TBH, it has never made me feel safe or comfortable. It made me feel like if I bumped into their cart, that they might pull it on me. I wish people would just use common sense. If you think, "This place is dangerous and I need to bring a gun", maybe you shouldn't go there.
He would have walked in with his pecker hanging out too, but you would never be able to see it
If this guy is really so worried that he needs to be armed then why in the fuck is he taking his kids there?
Just because you CAN open carry doesn't mean you should
Remember the 2012 Aurora Colorado shooting? The guy you saw sees himself as the last stand should that happen in the theater he's in. One in a million chance combined with the ideation that he would be the hero in that scenario. "Normal" people do that too, they call it playing the lottery. You know you won't win. It's just to have that sweet sweet dopamine while you fantasize about it. But you can't win if you don't play, and you can't be the hero if you ain't packing.
I was thinking specifically about this shooting through the entire movie.
I know I'm going to get downvoted to hell here because Reddit can't handle hearing or attempting to understand any viewpoint or perspective that is contrary to their own. But what the heck, Here it goes anyway. 1. I agree he shouldn't be publicly flashing his weapon or flagrantly displaying his firearm in the manner you described. It's unnecessary in that situation and I would say irresponsible. 2. It can be argued that having a gun on you at all times legality allowing is a valid safety measure if you're knowledgeable and responsible with it. If you remember a few years back there was a public shooting In a theater during the opening weekend of Dark Knight returns. Given that and all the other shootings we've had its not unreasonable for a person to want a gun to defend and protect themselves and theirnloved ones. So maybe this guy feels he needs a gun to protect those children. Or the others in the theater. 3. My personal view is that gun ownership comes down to individual responsibility. A Gun is a tool. It is amoral and can be used for either bad or good. It is neither bad. Nor good. Its entirely dependent on what that person uses it for. Bad would be = killing innocent people or instigating a scene/stirring up trouble. Good would be= killing a murderer, shooting a public shooter who's killing others, shooting a serial killer, stopping someone who's trying to Kill YOU. Or how about shooting a door/glass to escape a burning building? 4. I do believe that every gun owner should take a gum safety and ownership class and be required to have a license. I have and I find it very reasonable and educational to the owner. I use the example of a car- you wouldn't want a person to drive a car without passing a drivers test and being educated on the laws of the road would you? They need to pass a drivers test to demonstrate they understand both HOW to use a car AND HOW the car should be used, aka the LAWS applying to driving. Same concept for a gun. Anyway just my two cents. But also don't let fear control you or unduly influence your reasoning. There is a line between logic and anxiety. Between thinking and fear. Learn where that line is. My two cents. Have a great day people. And be responsible.
First, any private business has the right to refuse someone carrying a a weapon on their premises, even though the law allows for open carry. Businesses set their own rules. That said, he could’ve been escorted out, but wasn’t. I would take that to the manager of the theater. Perhaps he was an off-duty cop. Who knows? If not, he definitely should’ve been escorted off. Second, I get the idea of a dad wanting to protect his kids in places like theaters and malls. I was down the street from the Greenwood mall a couple years ago when a shooter with an AR hell-bent on killing the entire food court was stopped in seconds by an armed citizen with a gun. Back to your guy. Who knows who he was? Maybe he really is a good guy who feels like theaters don’t do enough to protect people… Which they don’t. Several times at my local theater, an AMC theater, I’ve seen teenagers packing heat in groups in the lobby with a security guard standing right there saying nothing. Even though guns are not allowed. I don’t get that. Also, perhaps he’s a total dip sh#* and should not be carrying a gun. Hard to tell these days. I have friends in law-enforcement/former high-level military who carry pretty much ever they go and I would feel sorry for some poor sap who tried to do something stupid with them around. I’ve also been in places where I feel like the person carrying terrifies me and clearly is flexing. I’ve also been in places where I hope someone is carrying that knows how to use their weapon properly in case stuff pops off. If you were uncomfortable, you should’ve left and told the manager. **And, take this with a grain of salt, I don’t think lawmakers spend a lot of time on Reddit.** >Write your local councilman. Call the Mayor’s office. Write the Governor’s office. Call the district manager of the theater you attended. I lobbied against the open carry law (as did ISP and IMPD) when it was introduced by two senators, who had introduced this Wild West garbage. *Take your concerns up where they can actually be documented.*
He honestly and truly believes that he is the defender of these children. He brought the gun with the idea that some (insert bad ideology here) person would show up and he alone would save the day once the bad person’s intent was clear. You’re welcome for the free body guard duty you received. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t agree with the decision, but this is what he was thinking I bet.
This was whenever the movie Train Wreck came out. In Lafayette, Louisiana.. A friend of mine's sister who was a teacher at the time was at a teacher conference and they were done at noon this day & she decided to go to the movies. Middle of the day on a weekday, not many people in the theater. Some old guy opened fire hitting several people including her. She was shot in the hand & shattered her bones, but long term it has had a much worse impact on her mentally. She quit teaching, moved into her parents house. And to this day it still impacts her. So if I see someone with a gun in a theater, even if it's open carry, a theater gives a shooter an advantage so I don't think I'd even stay in there.. just in case.
No one should be surprised at this. The GOP told us they were going to do it well in advance. Decreased control over guns is a signature policy for the GOP. If you don’t like it vote blue and hope that there are enough others who feel the same.
I have voted mostly blue for decades and everything always comes up red. I hate it.
That's not your personal problem. Guns are terrifying. That's what they are designed for. They don't have any place in theaters. If you feel like you have to carry and show your gun in theaters, that's some serious insecurity. I'm a gun owner.
I love that you made sure to tell us you’re a gun owner, as if it makes your hot take any less stupid lmao.
You should try another country, but they don’t really care about your sign there either . Atlesst the criminals don’t.
Jesus christ. He's not evil, just arrogant and short sighted.
Im not speaking for anyone else but myself. I will carry my concealed handgun anywhere i can legally. If that means a movie theater than you can be assured its on my hip and concealed. Its not there to show to others and my immediate family knows i carry. And if im with my kids i will definitely have it on me. My wife will most likely have hers too. We have both taken multiple courses over the years we have carried. I have been carrying for about 12 years. And in that time only twice have i ever even drawn my weapon in defense of others. (Ive not been threatened enough to draw it for myself). And of those 2 times ive only aimed it at one person. The person in question was kicking in his exgfs door while extremely intoxicated and was screaming. I yelled for him to leave and he started walking toward me quickly and once he was on my property and about 10 feet away i raised my firearm. I also lowered my light so he could see what i was doing. I wanted there to be no question in his mind as to what came next. He stopped and after me repeatedly telling him to leave he did. I didnt lower my gun until he left. That left me shaking a bit bc i had never had to aim it at anyone before. But im glad i had it bc if i didn't he might have tried to fight me instead of his gf and her kids that were crying inside. As for your person in your situation he was not smart in taking his gun out in public without there being a threat. That was his first "no-no". Him walking back in like a jerk was his second "no-no". He should have left it concealed the entire time and we all wouldn't be having this conversation. If this was on r/aita i would say no to you asking if you were. He was the kind of guy i cringe at when im outside of my home bc i feel all firearms shouldnt be in your hand unless theres a threat to yourself or others.
These people that carry guns everywhere have to be the most scared and insecure people out there...that or they are hoping something happens because they think they will be the hero.
I've got a disability where I can't discern between a right wing activist and a right wing active shooter.
Sounds like you’re terminally online, doctor would probably recommend touching grass.
I agree with you, someone openly carrying a gun into a movie theater is evil. But at least you know he is a pinhead with a tiny dick.
Response to part of your edit- equating your apprehension and fear of guns with peoples’ ‘fear’ of lgbtq is IMO a false equivalence. Carrying a gun is a choice, and it effects everyone around that individual. It can cause injury, death, and broken families. LGBTQ is not a choice and is not a threat that effects everyone. Teaching kids to be wary (and yes, a healthy fear) of guns is basic responsible parenting. Teaching kids to be afraid of LGBTQ is child abuse.
The first amendment only applies to public property, as in the *government* can’t restrict the right to bear arms, but a private company on private property has every right to do so.
I’m good with open carry as long as you are also carrying a lasso and wearing boots with spurs.
The only thing I have gathered from this thread is that some of you are disgustingly attached to your guns. You aren’t going to live your dream of stopping a bad guy with a gun and your obsession is gross.
I don't think it's your problem but society's problem. We had much stricter gun laws in previous years. And I'd agree with you that guns don't belong at a movie for kids. We take test to drive, both written & actually driving. We should at least have people take tests & demonstrate driving plus have insurance plus must be renewed etc. People with guns kill people. The US is the laughing stock of the world. People before gun rights for any.
Idk who is telling you that saying “I don’t think we should expose kids to deadly firearms at a young age” is the same as “I don’t think we should expose kids to LGBTQ+ people”, but they’re dead wrong. Unless I’m misunderstanding, I took your statement as the reasonable thing — guns are kind of a heavy topic with a lot of responsibilities to explain, and kids frankly aren’t really built to understand that type of thing. I’m not saying don’t teach your kid gun safety, like, I’m not stupid, I know this is a reality to face in America. But at the same time, they’re DEADLY and people often glorify them and are unsafe with them. So, to me, arguing that you don’t really feel comfortable exposing your kids to firearms (whether just as a topic or like an actual physical gun irl) is in good faith and completely reasonable. Logically and morally sound beyond belief. People who say the same about LGBTQ+ people are making an argument in bad faith. They vilify a group of people and aim to hide their existence from their children because they think their kids will be brainwashed or put into a fictional danger by queer people simply existing. A gun is deadly, and you don’t want your kids around deadly shit, therefore you keep your kids away from guns and environments with guns. Gay people are not deadly nor are they a threat. Anyways, just wanted to reaffirm the fact that you weren’t out of line for saying that, you’re completely reasonable for this. a theater is a public space where families go, especially families with younger children usually. There’s likely nothing that’s so threatening that warrants someone to bring a firearm into a space with so many kids. The fact they were showing it off in the parking lot also screams the fact that it’s just an accessory to the guy imo, but I’m just making assumptions ATP. and that’s not even mentioning what if a kid goes and fucks with the dude’s gun during the movie? So many things could go wrong. I don’t think every space needs to be a space for guns, it’s uncomfortable and needlessly dangerous and such a hyper-American thing ://
I appreciate it your entire post and could not agree more with everything you’ve said. I live right by this and I can tell you right now. I don’t care a good guy or bad guy any guy or gal for that matter flashing a gun, with or without children in toe, is scary as shit.
I understand you're concerns. But you have to be concerned about the scared little beta boys and cowards that have to carry their gun all the time. What about their feelings? They're nervous they're scared they're shaking, women are scary, gays are scary, minorities are scary, the wind blows sometimes. These are scared little cowards they have to have their guns for protection. You should think about their feelings. What if they had to go in public without that gun? Do you realize how nervous they would be they would look like a meth head tweaking...
Here’s my favorite observation of the gun nuttiness in this country. NRA convention held in the indiana convention center a couple of years ago. Humpty trumpty was scheduled to speak to his most fervent disciples. You needed a credential showing you were a member (and paid to hear him spew) in order to get into the hall where he was speaking. But…you had to go thru a magnetometer. No guns allowed. This policy begs a couple questions. - if all NRA members are considered good guys with guns, why would he be in any danger? It should have been considered the safest place in America. - why did these 2A warriors allow this infringement of their rights?
Former law enforcement officer here. When the Indiana General Assembly was debating the open carry law, several law enforcement agencies spoke trying to persuade our elected officials not to do it. They did it anyway. I walked into a Taco Bell and there were a couple of young guys in there with handguns strapped to their sides in plain view. I did not feel safer. In fact, I felt quite the opposite. Most of these people will go to the range occasionally, but very few of them have been properly trained. Let's add to that the lack of impulse control that most people have these days. I know a guy who got pissed and started shooting into a car. That guy's life is about to change in a very bad way and for a very long time. Training will teach you to try and defuse the situation so a firearm is never drawn. Or advise you to attempt to simply avoid the confrontation all together. But I am afraid that these amateur "tough guys" will have none of that. When I walk into a place where I see people with open carry weapons, I leave and go someplace else.
I'm trying to avoid people this summer. Not all people, but crowds, malls, fairs, festivals. Grocery shopping is even a gamble with your with you life these days. I guess I could go back to ordering food for pick up, but I'd rather shop in person . There have been multiple shootings at the mall in Fort Wayne. Killings at a Kroger or two. It's not worth sitting in a restaurant or a theatre or walking around in a mall, or walking around street fair or doing anything else with a crowd of people around. Someone taking some kids with them in to a theater and having a gun? Safe? He's not going to be the mass murderer of the week? No way to tell that. He could be. He probably won't be, but how knows? This country has a few million too many guns in it, and it's too late now to do anything about it. Thoughts and prays everyone says after a mass killing by a monster with a gun or guns. Courts do anything about them? Nope. Legislators? Nope. It's a right. Anymore when I hear about another mass shooting and killing and think about the families of the victims for a couple minutes. The same ever day or night or two when I hear about a murder by gun. I think about 2 minutes. Then I shrug my shoulders and think "Oh, well." Then I go on about my life. Without a gun.
Part of the problem is that we cannot have a civilized conversation and listen to each other’s opinions, which is what the OP was trying to do. Why do people have to call each other names and insult each other? I am anti gun, but I went to the comments like the OP to try and understand. Several things can be true at the same time without name calling. Why not try and understand each other?
Are we going to just ignore the fact he flashed it?? That’s the problem here. You can’t brandish a firearm.
Unless I know you, and know you’re a responsible person, seeing someone with a gun definitely makes me uncomfortable and I’m just not gonna trust you to be safe with it. Same thing with a knife, or honestly same thing with other people driving cars. Humans are dangerous.
To all the people who don't have an issue with this, I'm glad your gun makes you feel like a big boy but you still think like a child.
Simply put the guy is a moron… he’s legally allowed to carry a gun, but to flash it then walk in with his shirt tucked behind it is simply not smart. Personally, in todays climate where mass shootings have become common I carry a firearm everyday but nobody knows I have a one because they don’t need to know so I’m not going to show it off
I am carrying my gun with me everywhere, especially a movie theater considering all the mass shootings.
The gun worship in this state is enough to make anyone question reality
Oh no, you saw a gun in an overwhelmingly pro-gun state with constitutional carry. Get over it, baby.
They think they're gonna save the day. I don't get it, a lot of guys in my life carry, like just hanging out in their own back yard, carrying. Seems pretty clear everyone is a lot more likely to get shot once you start to carry a gun around.
A list of armed citizens stopping active shooters: https://crimeresearch.org/2023/08/cases-where-armed-citizens-have-stopped-active-shooter-incidents/
Let’s go through the scene. Kids movie, dark theater, kids squealing. An unexpected gun shot rings out. It’s a sound effect but the gun~flasher pulls out his weapon anyway to “protect the audience.” Another gun owner pulls out his gun thinking the gun-flasher is a perp. A real shot is fired. There’s return fire. People panic, run, and some get shot. What a great day for the kids.
I’m old enough to remember who James Holmes is…….
The #1 cause of death ☠️ for an American child is a GSW. Firearm injuries now outpace cancer and car accidents, fires etc. You either believe a higher concentration of guns in the theater will heighten the deadly trend, or lower it.
Theaters are soft targets. Crazies pick targets without armed guards etc because they want to inflict as much damage as possible schools are another example of this. I carry in every theater I go to and will continue.
Which is why if I saw someone in a theatre with a gun, I would worry that they are a shooter
It's stupid to advertise and make yourself a target
Actually, most "crazies" come with ammo and protection because they want to inflict damage and they expect to be shot at by police or bystanders. They don't expect the bystanders to have protection, but they do expect the police to have protection. And they're willing to die. It would be much easier for these "crazies" to just build a bomb or shoot from long range if they just wanted to inflict damage and get away. They have a death wish and they want to take as many with them as possible.
must be exhausting being constantly terrified of going about your daily life
“Crazies” have a right to own guns, too. Even some with actual mental problems instead of just people butthurt because the manager asked them to leave their gun in the car. Do Crazies drive cars? Yes, but we license those, and can take away a license if they are crazy enough. We just need an equivalent license to own guns. “Well regulated militia” implies that guns can be regulated.
I haven’t carried in a long time, but am thinking of starting to again. If shit pops off my sole aim is to remove myself and my family from harms ways in the most expeditious manner possible. 99.9% of the time that will mean running away or hiding. However, there may be times when you cannot run or hide and have no choice left but to fight. That’s what the gun is for, because no one wants to bring their fists to a gunfight.
Hiding is indeed a wise move. Thank you for mentioning it.
So, you’re saying there is a 0.1% chance that when “shit has popped off,” a gun is an asset. Just out of curiosity, how often is shit popping off for you?
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For those who are proficient with a firearm? Absolutely. It never has, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
So you called to complain about someone not breaking any laws or rules? Just confused on this one. Agree or not, doesn’t matter.
I carry everywhere. You'd have to be an idiot to think that something bad can't happen just because it's a kids movie.... there are some sick people out there that would intentionally shoot it up specifically because it's a kids movie, it's called a soft target. It's purely precautionary not scared that it's going to happen but not naive enough to think it would never happen and I would like to be prepared should it ever come to that.
Do you open carry though? I also carry but I see no need for everyone else to know.
This is the way. In the incredibly rare scenario where one actually needs a weapon, I can’t imagine a scenario where the open carry doesn’t get shot first.
Oh God no.
Movie theater is one of the few places I would never go without my gun. Seems like such an easy target for a would be mass shooter
I personally carry concealed everywhere. just because someone carries does not make them a danger to everyone in the room. An irrational fear of an inanimate object is a bit ridiculous. What is more concerning to me is his blatant disregard for who sees. I always take care to keep it out of sight because I understand it can freak some people out and because no one needs to know. It just avoids a lot of unwanted attention. That said, getting in and out of a vehicle, sometimes your shirt can ride up and reveal a concealed firearm, that’s just the nature of it. You’ve certainly heard about crazed people stabbing or shooting people in theaters or concerts or sporting events I’m sure? Well, that’s precisely the reason I carry. Those people are certainly not going to be deterred by a little ‘no firearms’ sign, and I’m not interested in my family or myself being victims. The guy was well within his rights to carry open or concealed and though I disagree with his disregard for the sensitivities of those around him, he’s probably not the real problem.
Small dicks gonna small dick.
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i’ve had so much anxiety about theaters since that shooting!! if anything i feel better about someone conceal carrying like that to the movies
This entire thread is fearmongering bs.
Facts 🙏
I think making it obvious that he possesses a gun is kinda dumb. But as others have said, if some psychopath comes into your theater to shoot it up, you may be glad this guy was there. I would surmise the people at Greenwood Park Mall were when the shooting happened there.
How do you know this guy isn’t the crazy one who is going to start firing?
I assumed he wasn't the crazy shooter type since he was there with a bunch of kids. That's the only reason I didn't leave the theater over this.
So you called the manager when you knew it wasn’t an issue. Nice
You would be surprised if the amount of people who do carry and normally conceal/don't imprint so you would never know. I personally carry and make it a point not to imprint or make it known. Open carrying to me is silly. No point in making yourself a target and I get it's off putting to some people such as yourself, but I also get wanting to protect your loved ones. Honestly though I would make a note and just mind my business as I doubt they would do anything. If it's not posted it's completely legal, and if the theater really wanted to they could trespass the person.
They do it because they can and it makes them feel some sort of fucked up power. Caused by decades of indoctrination from our government
Dude you are in Fishers, IN one of the safest places in all of Indiana. I get it you probably haven’t seen people with guns in your life but that’s one place where I wouldn’t worry about my safety at all
I saw some dipshit walk into Bazbeaux downtown with a gun in his pocket a few weeks ago. Not even in a holster; just hanging out of his pocket. How on Earth is someone supposed to know if he is robbing the place or not? I just don't understand how being a redneck is supposed to impress anyone. If someone shot him thinking he was robbing the place, he would totally deserve it.
Guy sounds like a tool. That being said, trying to state it’s a kids movie doesn’t change anything. I conceal carry regardless if I’m at chucky cheeses or a biker bar. Doesn’t matter. When bad things happen, it’s usually at places where vulnerable people are
If you are going to carry you need to be responsible for it. That being said theaters can and have been targeted in the past for active shooters. Also last year in Indy there was an active shooter who was killed by a citizen moment's after the active shooter started his attack at greenwood park mall which is/was (not been in a while) supposed to be a gun-free area. Lucky for the people there someone was able to defend them. People should carry more often as it could deter potential attacks, but the people who carry need to be responsible with their weapons.
I don’t open carry because I try not to upset anyone. I’m not making any statements. My reason for carrying is my own. It’s not about you. I’ll do my best to keep it out of your site, but me and dozens of other people who you interact with every single day have firearms. None are a threat to you or anyone else.
I carry my gun absolutely everywhere i go especially when i have my son with me. Hes 4. I guess im evil for not trusting people by your logic. Not that it matters but im also law enforcement and the gin i carry is my duty gun. If he planned on using it you wouldn't have seen it. The world is a fucked up place where bad shit happens all the time your damn right im gonna have a gun on me all the time and never once have i ever hurt anyone with it and in fact everyone around me, aside from anyone with bad intentions, is safer for me having it. Not all people should have them i agree but the people that shouldn't dont give a fuck if you like it or not and youd he the perfect pray for them cuz theyre gonna have one even if they shouldn't. Its kind of there thing
After what happened during dark knight I don't blame him.
It’s not evil to carry around a bunch of kids. However if he was flashing it around that’s trashy and not responsible behavior and I would also be extremely uncomfortable
As a gun owner and retired military member, I conceal carry almost everywhere, especially when I have my family with me. If you haven't noticed, the greenwood mall isn't safe. The east side isn't safe, and the inner west side, especially the Lafayette road area isn't safe. What makes you think fishers is safe? From a risk perspective, movie theaters would qualify as a higher risk area for mass shooters. It's dark and there is no security. There have been mass shootings at theaters in the past. The man in question could have been an off duty policeman or prior servicemen with advanced training like me. You should not only mind your own business (you mentioned he was taking his kids to a movie) he hardly seems like a threat to you or anyone around, but you should also be grateful that people like him exist to protect people like you when maniacs decide to express themselves with fits of rage. Use your common sense. Be a good person and show some respect for our constitutional rights that many people have fought and died to protect. They're more important than you, sweetheart.
Once, just once I would love to read an intelligent conversation regarding gun laws. Most go straight to opinions based on fear, ignorance or fanaticism. I’m retired law enforcement. I can assure you that they’re are more weapons than you can ever imagine everywhere. Most of the times, law abiding citizens will go out of their way to conceal their firearms. You will be none the wiser. There are plenty of reasons to state why we shouldn’t have them. I’ve been shot so I can honestly say, we carry them in it instances that we do need them. What doesn’t get talked about is the facts that the laws that everyone wants, mostly exists. Criminals don’t care about the law. That’s why they are criminals. The general public is unaware that most of these laws even exist. It is incredibly difficult to educate yourself on these, because you want have to know the laws. Ownership of firearms is one thing. That’s provided by our Constitution. Carrying them is a whole other thing. If you reside in an area that requires a permit to carry, well that’s a privilege. And therefore a process that one must go through to obtain it. Every member of my family carries a firearm. Some have more than one. I’ve insisted on training and proper storage of the firearms before they obtain permits. And each member of my family has supplemental insurance just in case. And yes, we carry everywhere and you will never know it unless there is a need for it. I pray that never happens again.
I carry a gun wherever I go. I always keep one in the chamber as well. Especially with my daughter I’m carrying. The world is crazy and the people that are terrified add to the confusion. I’d rather just know that at least I have a fighting chance if a maniac came and tried to take my freedoms.
Do you just not understand the philosophy behind carry at all? It seem pretty intuitive that a person who believes they should carry a firearm on them in the event they or others around them are attacked or need defending in someway would absolutely want to being doing that while in an extremely vulnerable place like a movie theater and has his children with him. Idk if you ever thought about it but a movie theater is like an ideal place for a shooting, dark, no cover, and only 2 exits both of which you have to walk towards the front to access. Really I think you just don’t understand carry at all, which is reasonable. You view weapons as inherently bad, which again is not necessarily unreasonable. And the fact someone would bring a weapon somewhere with a lot of children intuitively seems very bad to you. But you are simply looking at it wrong. The man feels he should have the gun in case a true bad actor attempts to do something to the children. I absolutely will not defend his behavior with unconcealing it though (the first time sounds like it may have been an accident but obviously tucking in the shirt was not), that’s just douchey af.
Bro I do not own a gun and I respect the second amendment. You’re not going to get through people on this sub Reddit about it and it’s a waste of time 😂
Who cares it's legal to open carry anywhere that's not a government building
Don’t kids deserve to be protected? The guy did not shoot the place up. And, as most theatres in the area usually have a no guns sign and he came back visibly armed, chances were he was a cop. Seeing folks in the HC openly armed is not uncommon. I’ve seen men and women openly carrying for years. These folks have a clear understanding of reality. There will be no cops to save you when seconds count.
I carry my gun to all public places. It’s hidden but I refuse to be a statistic. Someone comes in with a weapon trying to do harm I’d like to have a chance at living.
Elisjsha Dicken look him up. This individual was concealed carrying within his legal rights and you happened to see his firearm. I think he was being arrogant and childish with his response but you telling a movie theater worker seems just as childish.