My perspective on open and concealed carry in Washington

H

Haven

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Joined
Sep 22, 2025
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11
I recently moved to Washington and decided to learn the difference between open carry and concealed carry. Carrying openly gave me sense of transparency, people saw what I had and there were a few surprises, but I noticed more attention, sometimes judgment. Switching to concealed felt more discreet, safety sometimes feels better when gear is hidden but it adds layers of concern. Legally, paperwork and training matter for both, but concealed permits add extra requirements. For me, concealed works better everyday....yeah open carry is powerful, but more situational, what do you guys think?
 
My opinion: Open carry (except maybe during hunting season or in the woods) is for Mall Ninjas (actually seen a couple at the local Mall!). Every one who I have ever seen (except with hunting type rigs) has seemed immature and trying to be "macho". On the other hand, if I was a "Bad Guy", guess who I would shoot first!

CCW: What "extra requirements"? You fill out a form, get printed and wait 10 days or so. Added responsibility to be "concealed". I use a $79 Urban Carry holster. Also, a moral responsibility to practice but that should apply to concealed OR open carry, regardless! Moved here 22 yrs ago and carried concealed for 20+ years! Every WSP who has stopped me has been informed I was carrying and ASKED how he wanted to proceed. Almost every one has thanked me and a couple complimented me on my choice to carry.

Granted my Oregon CCP required a 15 minute training course and a trip to Portland for printing and a photo, but we went to Jake's for a nice dinner, Clyde's for prime rib the next night, & VooDoo Donuts for breakfast!!. Utah was a little more of a hassle but Utah doesn't require a permit anymore.
 
That’s a really thoughtful take, @Haven. I felt the same way when I tried both. Open carry taught me awareness, but concealed felt calmer and more natural for daily life. It’s personal… comfort and confidence usually find their own balance
 
I remember a news article about a guy open carrying and went into the men's bathroom and just as he got his other gun in his hand in walk two other guys who attacked him and took his brand-new pistol from him. Open carry NO, you're just drawing unnecessary attention and I'm sure it makes a lot of people feel uneasy.
 
Montana Cowboy said:
I remember a news article about a guy open carrying and went into the men's bathroom and just as he got his other gun in his hand in walk two other guys who attacked him and took his brand-new pistol from him. Open carry NO, you're just drawing unnecessary attention and I'm sure it makes a lot of people feel uneasy.
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As RESPONSIBLE gun owners we should be aware of the image we convey! How many people equate hunters and poachers?
 
BearBio said:
My opinion: Open carry (except maybe during hunting season or in the woods) is for Mall Ninjas (actually seen a couple at the local Mall!). Every one who I have ever seen (except with hunting type rigs) has seemed immature and trying to be "macho". On the other hand, if I was a "Bad Guy", guess who I would shoot first!

CCW: What "extra requirements"? You fill out a form, get printed and wait 10 days or so. Added responsibility to be "concealed". I use a $79 Urban Carry holster. Also, a moral responsibility to practice but that should apply to concealed OR open carry, regardless! Moved here 22 yrs ago and carried concealed for 20+ years! Every WSP who has stopped me has been informed I was carrying and ASKED how he wanted to proceed. Almost every one has thanked me and a couple complimented me on my choice to carry.

Granted my Oregon CCP required a 15 minute training course and a trip to Portland for printing and a photo, but we went to Jake's for a nice dinner, Clyde's for prime rib the next night, & VooDoo Donuts for breakfast!!. Utah was a little more of a hassle but Utah doesn't require a permit anymore
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“Mall Ninjas” made me laugh! OI totally agree on the responsibility part, practice matters whether open or concealed, and it sounds like you’ve had some smooth experiences with law enforcement over the years
 
Klaus said:
That’s a really thoughtful take, @Haven. I felt the same way when I tried both. Open carry taught me awareness, but concealed felt calmer and more natural for daily life. It’s personal… comfort and confidence usually find their own balance
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Yeah open carry definitely sharpens awareness, but concealed just fits everyday life better. Comfort and confidence really do find their own balance once you figure out what works for you.
 
Montana Cowboy said:
I remember a news article about a guy open carrying and went into the men's bathroom and just as he got his other gun in his hand in walk two other guys who attacked him and took his brand-new pistol from him. Open carry NO, you're just drawing unnecessary attention and I'm sure it makes a lot of people feel uneasy.
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That’s a wild story, it definitely makes the risks of open carry feel real, sometimes keeping it concealed just makes sense for safety and peace of mind.
 
Leave as soon as you can.

Ill give you two instances in Olympia. One happened to me, the other guy was a guy I knew.
He walked about downtown every Friday night. Opened carry a Glock and had on a plate carrier.
He told me on a good night 3-4 Cops will stop and run him thru the mill.
He enjoys it.

Any one remember the TEA party's at the capitol steps?
First time, I went I was in full 1776 outfit with my flintlock on my shoulder.
From where I parked, I was met by 11 Cops from several agencies.
I had to show each one My horn was empty, and I had no round balls in my bag.
I ended up walking back downhill, stowing the rifle in my truck, and walking back with out it.

At the second TEA party, I left the rifle at home. No one hassled me.
 
There's an old saying about those who open carry and/or drive pickup trucks with giant wheels. It has to do with compensating for tiny man parts. That can be figuratively or literally, and has nothing to do with politics or the constitution.
 
VancMike said:
There's an old saying about those who open carry and/or drive pickup trucks with giant wheels. It has to do with compensating for tiny man parts. That can be figuratively or literally, and has nothing to do with politics or the constitution.
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Both have a valid time and place. Not to say it isn't overly done at times!
 

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