I know what you’re thinking….there is an easy answer to the question of whether you should drink while carrying concealed and it is, “No!” Yes, that is what we consider the correct answer. And here’s why…
1. It’s not allowed. Most states have laws against carrying any sort of weapon while intoxicated. For example, in Michigan, their laws state that an individual carrying a pistol or taser while under the influence or while having a bodily alcohol content of .02 or above can have the weapon immediately confiscated. By accepting your concealed carry license you are agreeing to these statutes. A .02 BAC is very low. According to BAC charts, a 190-pound man will be at .o2 after 2 drinks in one hour.
2. Your judgement is affected. You may do things you normally wouldn’t do. Even if you say you never pick fights, you may say something to someone you shouldn’t have, or otherwise not keep a cool head in a situation that called for one.
3. You’re more likely to get pulled over in a traffic stop if you’re drinking. Driving while drinking while carrying is serious and is likely to cause you to lose your gun and your driving privileges. The state definition of “intoxicated” is very vague so that they can use that term against someone whenever they need to. Don’t give them a cause to use it against you and take your gun.
4. You’re more likely to lose the gun or have it used against you in a physical confrontation. Even with one drink a person will lose some reaction time and muscle control. This is a bad combination when you’re talking about a lethal weapon.
5. You’re more likely to drop it. Let’s say you’re trying to take it out of your holster and you’re drunk. You’re likely to drop it. You’re also likely to not realize that it may be slipping out of your holster for whatever reason.
6. You’re more likely to talk about it. When your judgement is impaired you’re more likely to tell someone you have a gun when normally you wouldn’t mention it. This an lead to arguments, or fights just because someone doesn’t want you to have a gun, or they want to take it from you. Someone may think you’re bragging.
7. You’re more likely to print. When you’re less aware of your body and your body language, you’re less aware of whether your gun is showing under your clothes or not.
Bottom line, guns and booze do not mix. Ever. Period. If you are going to carry concealed, do the smart thing and leave your gun at home or have a “Designated Shooter.” This might be a person who you trust who is also licensed to carry who does not drink on the night you choose to, just like a designated driver doesn’t drink and is responsible for the group. You return the favor.
