For those of you who go hiking.. What type of protection do you have?

I usually carry my .45 on my hip when I am out in the forest. Do those of you who don't carry a gun feel safer when you see someone who is carrying a gun?

If I seen someone in danger in the forest I would not hesitate to use my gun to save them. I feel safer if the people I am with are carrying. Even seeing a random person carrying. Of course I live in the sticks and most people have been hunting.. so there's that.

I know people in the city probably go target shooting at the indoor range if they own a gun.
I was watching some YouTube videos and I had thought about this and decided to ask you all.

Please don't turn this into an argument about gun rights and such.

Thanks in advance for your response.

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windinhishair · 61-69, M

Protection from what? You're hiking. Most places don't have dangerous animals, and even in those that do, you are going to be safe in almost every situation if you conduct yourself sensibly. I've been in remote wilderness areas many miles away from other people, seen mountain lions, bears, rattlesnakes, etc. up close, and have never even considered carrying a firearm. It would degrade the experience. The only gun I have ever seen was carried by a Mexican national in Big Bend National Park, coming up a trail from the Rio Grande and setting traps for ringtail and other small game. I greeted him and offered him water, which he waved off and pointed to the river.

fanuc2013 · 51-55, F

@windinhishair In Michigan, there have been a number of coyote attacks even in cities! A game warden told me of feral dog problems in some areas.

windinhishair · 61-69, M

@fanuc2013 Coyotes are found in all US states except Hawaii. There are packs that live in wooded areas around me. I walk by them every single day and I hear them occasionally, especially when they have young pups . Despite their presence literally everywhere, attacks on humans are rare. I am not concerned about them.

fanuc2013 · 51-55, F

@windinhishair I have insurance on my house despite the fact that it is unlikely it will burn down

windinhishair · 61-69, M

@fanuc2013 I don't bring a weapon to church even though I could be killed there.