One of the thugs was posted in the road as a lookout. Another one was posted right beside my wife who was sitting in the passenger seat of the truck.
The third one was casing the gas station to make sure there were no witnesses. I had my .357 magnum in the vehicle's door cargo area as prescribed by the law but it was still within arms reach as I pumped gas.
I had about 8 seconds to grab it and stick it behind my back while I waited for the situation to develop. Dude number three approached me and I stared him in the eyes and let him know that I knew what was up and was ready for it.
He looked over at the guy standing by my wife, shook his head a couple of times, and all three of them slunk back into the shadows without incident.
We drove on to Roswell high on adrenaline. I didn't have to shoot anybody but it was definitely a DGU and a life changing experience for my wife and I.
I preferred Arizona's open carry laws. That little .357 was always on my side while in Arizona. I liked Arizona's gun laws so much that I intend to move out there.
Situational awareness. Good for you. Does your wife also carry?
I agree. Although I understand those who would like to carry concealed, I tend towards open. I want them to see whats coming their way.
Some like the bigger calibers, I carry a 22 mag. My thought is to place the shot accurately and get more off because of the lack of kick.