Carry a rifle in public?

[Ethan N]

For the last several days there’s been lively discussion around here about a couple of guys carrying AR platform pistols in public (at a park, around Campus Corner in Norman, etc.). See links below if you haven’t seen the threads yet. Some people seem to disapprove of carrying long guns in public altogether. Others don’t have a problem with long gun carry itself, but have expressed disapproval that the men carried enough gear to possibly be mistaken as a mass shooter or that they did it for the purpose of seeing how police would handle the situation if they responded. And others were indifferent or supportive of the men doing what they did.

There’s already been more than enough discussion of the merits of those particular situations, so let’s try to avoid rehashing that in this thread. What I’m curious to know is simply how many people are against long gun carry in public places altogether versus how many think that it is appropriate or permissible in at least some situations.

For the purpose of this poll, assume that November 1st has already passed, making long gun carry legal everywhere pistol carry is legal, that whoever carrying the gun is not legally disqualified from carrying, and that they are only carrying in places where it is legal to do so. Also note we’re talking about carrying for self-defense, not for hunting, training, recreation, etc. Please select all of the answers you agree with.

Feel free to reply with comments or details about your votes.

https://www.okshooters.com/threads/ar-open-carry-at-hafer-park-in-edmond.274946/

https://www.okshooters.com/threads/local-broken-arrow-2a-activist-who-arrested.275033/

 

[Pstmstr]

I voted for in a vehicle because it might make sense to have it handy in case it was needed in a situation such as an active shooter or other emergency I also think it would be fine in a church or building but hidden from casual view such as a church security team etc. Finally, on private property it would be ok as well if you are the owner or have permission of the owner. I see no reason why a long gun should be carried openly in public for self defense purposes. While I agree it will be legal to do so, we have too many people opposed to guns as it is. It just draws attention to the individual, especially if they are dressed like a wannabe commando. There are plenty of discrete ways to carry firearms, both long guns and handguns. For example, I used to have a Keltec Sub2k with several 33 round mags in my vehicle. It used the same mags as my concealed carry pistol but was in a plain black briefcase.

 

[Ignored Member]

"On private property" are you talking about someone's personal property, like their ranch/farm/hunting grounds?

 

[Ethan N]

"On private property" are you talking about someone's personal property, like their ranch/farm/hunting grounds?

Yes, on their own (or leased) personal property, or with permission from property owner/lessee. Not limited to rural properties like the examples you gave, but not including commercial properties or property open to the public.

 

[Ethan N]

There is one I forgot to include. I’ll mention it here for anyone who would like to vote by reply:

During an emergency or other situation involving extraordinary risk of violent attack (e.g. mass civil unrest)

Some might consider open carry of any gun a tactical mistake during mass civil unrest, but that’s not really the question here.

 

[CHenry]

I'm definitely Carringing hot n heavy if I must go out During a civil unrest situation.
But I voted to not limit any man's legal right to exsersise his 2A right anywhere that its legal to carry.

 

[Ethan N]

Thanks for voting. Don’t forget to select each scenario you support.

 

[CHenry]

Thanks for voting. Don’t forget to select each scenario you support.

I voted for the first choice. It's clear to me what the BOR say.

 

[DavidMcmillan]

Now, if we can just get the rest of the voting public to agree with you.

 

[MacFromOK]

I voted for the first choice as well. "Shall not be infringed" should mean exactly what it says.

That doesn't mean I think it's always prudent to do so. Actions have consequences.