I live in Texas and conceal carry sometimes. I am not against open carry. I just don’t see any advantage to it especially when it comes to self defense. Maybe someone can enlighten me.
“I just don’t see any advantage to it especially when it comes to self defense”
Because of my clothing the only concealed choice is a .380 in a pocket holster. That can be difficult to get at as it shifts positions even with the pocket holster and depending on being seated or standing. A gun on your hip is easily accessed, but does require another level of situational awareness as a penalty. Others can potentially access it as well.
If you ride a motorcycle and wear protective clothing, carrying concealed means the pistol is inside your impact armor. A crash will drive the hard steel of the pistol into your body, causing injuries you would not have otherwise suffered. Open carry means you can carry your pistol on your body but outside the impact armor where it is less likely to cause injury.
There is also the case to be made for open carry in situations where you are sitting down for long periods and you can’t use a shoulder holster.
I’m sure it’s more convenient to OC, but no point in advertising the fact that you’re armed in most cases. One of the best reasons to have the OC law is so you don’t get in trouble for “flashing your gun”.