I can't help but feel that women probably have a bit more latitude, even when they go on a date with the gun-fearing gents. ("I'm just trying to protect myself, because public order has really gone down in recent months.") Even the slightly gun-fearing guy would find a gal with a gun... sexy, because there is some sort of gender reversal there. That's one of the reasons Lara Croft sold well.
On the other hand, the guy has to be secure with himself, so he doesn't feel that he's being "outmanned." It would also help for the guy to have a certain level of trust and comfort with you, otherwise the date might not go so well. Finally, if the date isn't familiar with the responsibilities of gun ownership, you might not want to let him know you carry in case he thinks pulling out a gun at any hint of danger is an option, or he decides to shoot a few rounds in his backyard within city limits while you're in the bathroom, etc.
It seems to me a lady who carries ought to wait until she knows the date is stable and trustworthy before she shares the information. Another reason for waiting is that in some unfortunate cases, women have had to protect themselves from their dates. There is no reason to lose the tactical advantage.
The topic has to come up organically. How the subject is brought up and discussed can probably make a big difference for those who haven't made up their mind or those who are willing to be open-minded. There is less latitude for guys, I think. There are more women than men who fear guns. We might just scare off someone who could make a good partner if we don't present our hobby in the proper light. So I'm particularly interested in hearing from the ladies how to approach this whole question.
And I guess we'll just go from there. I can respect those with a principled position against guns, though I don't think a relationship will work out if he/she feels that strongly about it, and I don't think any of us can really live with someone who is very afraid of guns.
and since I'm talking to INGO I should probably add that, when they ask why you have it, don't say because the constitution says you can, or because this is america, or because the government is turning into Nazi Germany...Just explain to them that it's for protection, you're not looking for trouble, and you'd more likely hand over your wallet to prevent an incident instead of drawing down on an armed robber.
