Tuesday Night Live From The Range:

Published on September 23, 2025
Duration: 64:48

John G. Johnson discusses Florida's shift towards open carry following a court ruling, analyzing its pros and cons. He emphasizes that while open carry is now legal, businesses can still restrict it, potentially negating its benefits and reinforcing the importance of concealed carry. The discussion highlights the need for proper retention gear, situational awareness, and de-escalation skills when carrying a firearm.

Quick Summary

Florida's ban on open carry was struck down as unconstitutional on September 10th. While open carry is now legal, businesses can still prohibit it with signage, and existing restrictions on carrying in prohibited locations remain. Proper retention holsters and situational awareness are critical for those who choose to open carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Tuesday Night Live
  2. 01:17Welcome and Show Introduction
  3. 02:08The Changing World and Self-Defense
  4. 02:56Florida Open Carry Ruling Explained
  5. 03:43Pros and Cons of Open Carry Discussion
  6. 05:00Interruption and Return to Podcast
  7. 05:50Attorney General's Announcement on Open Carry
  8. 06:41Current Status: Don't Open Carry Yet
  9. 07:14What Hasn't Changed: Restricted Locations
  10. 07:30Permitless Carry in Florida
  11. 07:50Understanding Open Carry Positives and Negatives
  12. 08:35Positives of Open Carry
  13. 10:16Challenges and Negatives of Open Carry
  14. 11:22Positive #1: No Concealment Worry
  15. 11:26Positive #2: Speed of Access
  16. 11:41Positive #3: Comfort in Heat
  17. 12:34Positive #5: Deterrent Effect (Questioned)
  18. 14:44Disadvantages of Open Carry
  19. 15:01Negative #1: Bad Guys See Firearm as Money
  20. 16:33Negative #2: Loss of Tactical Advantage
  21. 17:24Negative #1 (Revisited): Loss of Tactical Advantage
  22. 18:24Negative #2: Demands Solid Retention Gear
  23. 20:39Negative #3: Increased 911 Calls & Problems
  24. 23:01Negative #4: 'No Open Carry' Signs in Businesses
  25. 27:28Private Property Rights and Business Access
  26. 31:01Vulnerability Even with a Firearm
  27. 31:45Impact of Permitless Carry on Law Enforcement
  28. 34:15Negative #5: Community Optics and Representation
  29. 35:56Tips for Open Carry
  30. 36:09Tip #1: Level 2+ Retention Holster
  31. 37:10Tip #2: Situational Awareness
  32. 38:42Tip #3: De-escalation Skills
  33. 39:34Tip #4: Stay Current on Restricted Places
  34. 41:31Concealed Carry vs. Open Carry Benefits
  35. 43:13Personal Opinion: Concealed Carry Preferred
  36. 44:12Viewer Comments and Discussion
  37. 45:05Force Training and Weapon Retention
  38. 47:48Leaving Firearms in Vehicles
  39. 50:16Triple Retention Holsters
  40. 51:33Comfort vs. Safety in Holsters
  41. 52:08Why Concealed Carry is Preferred
  42. 53:20Egotistical People and Vulnerable Situations
  43. 53:46Personal Experience: Gas Station Encounter
  44. 57:09Real-Life Threat Identification and Engagement
  45. 58:05Criminal Penalties and Judicial System
  46. 59:30Road Rage Incident and De-escalation
  47. 60:48Evade, Escape, Engage Strategy
  48. 61:13Legal Ramifications: Reasonable Man Standard
  49. 62:04Conclusion: Open vs. Concealed Carry Decision
  50. 62:59About John G. Johnson and Firearms Training
  51. 63:30How to Support the Channel
  52. 64:23Closing Remarks and Safety Reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current legal status of open carry in Florida?

As of September 10th, a Florida district court of appeal ruled the state's decade-old ban on open carrying firearms unconstitutional. The Attorney General advised law enforcement not to enforce the old ban, with full clarity expected by September 25th.

Do I need a concealed carry permit to open carry in Florida?

No, Florida's permitless carry law, effective July 2023, means you do not need a concealed carry permit to legally open carry a firearm in the state.

Can businesses still prohibit open carry in Florida?

Yes, businesses can still prohibit open carry by posting 'No Open Carry' signs. If you enter a business with such a sign and are asked to leave, failure to do so can result in trespassing charges.

What are the main disadvantages of open carrying a firearm?

Key disadvantages include losing tactical advantage, becoming a potential first target for criminals, the risk of weapon grabs due to inadequate retention gear, and potential negative community perception.

What is the most important tip for someone considering open carry?

The most crucial tip is to use a Level 2 or higher retention holster to secure your firearm. Additionally, maintaining high situational awareness and practicing de-escalation skills are vital for safety.

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