[at-l] Gun responsibility

[gbuffmd@bigfoot.com (Gary Buffington)]

I know someone very (very) well who carried a North American Arms 22-magnum
5 shot pistol out on the AT on a north bound hike.  It weighs 7.5 ounces
loaded with hollow points and can be concealed in the hand or fits in a
pocket easily.  He had a concealed weapons permit in his state (not honored
in most other states) and handgun training and experience.  He was concerned
for the safety of himself and his hiking partner wife.  The weapon did add
to the feeling of security early in the hike.  However, he was worried the
whole time about the responsibility of others if the gun were stolen.
Before entering the Smokies (where it is definitely illegal to carry a
weapon) with great difficulty he found someone to take the weapon to their
home. About a year later he finally retrieved it.
	The next 2000 miles were uneventful.  The conclusion he made was that it
was more trouble than it was worth, although being inexperienced (and
nervous about safety) on the trail he was glad he started with it until he
found that the trail was safe.

----------------------------------------------------
Sign Up for NetZero Platinum Today
Only $9.95 per month!
http://my.netzero.net/s/signup?r=platinum&refcd=PT97