Concealed Carry 9 Months after Taking My Class
By Gregory Kielma
How do concealed carriers really feel having a firearm on their person?

How do concealed carriers really feel having a firearm on their person?
Gregg Kielma
Says Kielma, I ask this of my students approximately 8-12 months after taking my CCW Class. Here is what one person had to say that let their CCW expire and had to retake the class to get his permit revalidated.
I’ve been carrying a concealed firearm for about 10 years now. It is part of my everyday carry kit along with other items such as a knife, extra mags, and a flashlight. I feel a bit uneasy when I’m not carrying it, which is extremely rare if ever. It took some getting used to, however, it's always on my side.
I don't feel invincible. I am alert, calm, and vigilant. My situational awareness is very high and I’m always scoping out the people, possible exits, etc. whenever I go out. I have a sense of confidence knowing that I can defend myself and my loved ones in the event I am forced to confront a situation where I might have to end it with deadly force.
I am extremely careful because I don't want to risk losing my license to carry. I avoid the bad parts of town. I’ve take Kielma’s de-escalation classes just to be on the safe side.
It’s been a daily part of life now for many, many years. I’ll never again let my permit expire.