[SWAMPSNIPER]

Cops should act like cops, 24/7, and look like cops.
I was working the register one day, a guy came in wearing jeans, a plaid shirt and cowboy boots, with several days of beard. As he passed he started to turn, and pulled his shirt tail up. When I saw the tip of his holster I hauled out the old S&W. He froze like a deer in the headlights, someone yelled “he’s a deputy”. How was I supposed to know? I never was trained to let someone get a first crack at me. The damn fool was one wrong move away from shot.
I heard later that the sheriff had a talk with him, never said a word to me.

[ButThreeLeftsDo]

“I heard later that the sheriff had a talk with him, never said a word to me.”

When you’re right, you’re right.....

[basil]

I'm curious as to why just seeing the tip of his holster caused you to draw your weapon. I carry my gun in a waist holster most of the time and have visited many business establishments. I don't think that I have ever inadvertently pulled up my shirt and exposed my holster to view. Little ole ladies just don't do that--but guys do---maybe he was pulling up his shirt tail to get to his wallet.

I would have certainly kept my eye on him, but unless he became menancing or threatening, I probably wouldn't have pulled out my gun where he could see it--although I would make sure that my gun was where I could pull it if necessary.

[caveat emptor]

Cops should act like cops, 24/7, and look like cops.

Agreed, with the last part anyway.

[thefactor]

why would you pull out a gun even before you saw another person pull one? was he moving into what looked like a drawing position? i could understand your actions as you drew, but you should not fire at someone with two empty hands.

as for your statement about looking like a cop 24/7, that is just wrong. when a cop is off duty, you want him to advertise what he does? and what about undercovers? they have to look like criminals.

[Erik Latranyi]

When I saw the tip of his holster I hauled out the old S&W.

You were completely in the wrong here.