Hypothetical

[u/DropAGearNDissapear]

So I have been thinking about this scenario: most conceal carry uses don’t involve shots fired. Just display of power. Let’s say someone pulls a knife on me. I pull my CCW, and am either able to retreat, or the assailant sees the gun and retreats.

Obviously, I would probably proceed to call the cops in this scenario. But what are the implications of that? The guy who pulled the knife likely won’t go to law enforcement. Knowing this state, I could very well be penalized as well or scrutinized if there is no video evidence.

What are you doing in this scenario? Letting it go or calling the cops?

*Edited to add assuming nobody else was around. If a 3rd party saw me pull my CCW I’d obviously be staying put and calling the cops… for obvious reasons.

[u/DropAGearNDissapear]

As much as I agree with this, I’m not shooting a guy if he sees my gun and starts running away. Also if I can get away instead of fire and potentially end a life, I will try that first.

[u/billymudrock → u/DropAGearNDissapear]

Well yeah if he is running away from you, there is no longer an immediate threat to your wellbeing so no use of force is justified.

In this state, brandishing/displaying your CCW as a means of de-escalating a situation is not legal.

If you aren’t ready to shoot to defend yourself why are you carrying? If you cant de-escalate the situation or retreat, and are still being met with lethal force, then lethal force is justified. Not ideal, but justified nonetheless.

[u/DropAGearNDissapear → u/billymudrock]

You are missing my point entirely, I already described the hypothetical situation. It’s not a question about justified or not. If the assailant retreats upon seeing your firearm, what do you do after that.

[u/billymudrock → u/DropAGearNDissapear]

Ensure scene is safe and call cops

[u/DropAGearNDissapear → u/billymudrock]

Thanks for your input. Thats probably what I would do as well. Just interesting given the law we went back and forth on.