Can they point to any case, anywhere in the US - or the world for that matter - where an open-carrier was targeted by a violent criminal? Why do they cling to this belief so fervently?
It seems weird to me but a fair number of FReepers seem to think that an open carrier is inviting trouble.
It has happened, at least once. But, as it is widely publicized when it happens, I believe it is extremely rare, a "unicorn" event. I believe that CCW carriers are targeted much more frequently. I have posted several stories where CCW carriers were attacked and then had to access their concealed weapon.