Like Mr Dickey, I was a "range shooter" and hunter for years. I rarely used or handled guns. Then two key things made me re-consider. The first was the realization that Democrats, led by Floyd Prozanski, want to nullify the 2nd Amendment and take my  rights away. The fact that they consistently and blatantly lie about it got my attention. They say they don't want to abrogate the 2nd Amendment, they just want "common sense" to tax, limit, restrict and harass gun owners. So, I sat up and took notice. 

The second item was the reductions in Police patrols, combined with harassment of the Police and a rise in crime. Murder, rape and home invasions are up, but so are muggings and "petty" crimes. So, about 4 years ago I started carrying. My wife and I practice every week, we carry everywhere we go, and we feel much safer.

Anyone who doubts that should get a CHL, practice, and carry for a month. I bet you'll feel so much safer you'll never leave home without it.