[Doug.38PR]

So you're walking out of a gas station towards your car. It's 0130, and it's dark. A man walks up asking for some change.

<what do you do at this point> After dusk! Just say a firm NO! and keep walking. Avoid turning your back on him, watch what he is doing not what he is saying.

Whether you gave him some change or not, now he's asking for some real cash or even a ride someplace. He's moving closer to you and being very persistent.

<what do you do at this point> Be aware of what is going on around you. He may have friends in the other direction. His aim might be to distract you. Tell him NO again. If he is getting too close for comfort (set your boundaries) Tell him to go away putting your hand up as a shield. If it looks like he is making a threatening move (hands going into coat or pockets) be prepared to go for your gun.

Now he's showing his true face. He pulls a weapon and demands all of your money, you phone, and your keys.

<what do you do at this point> If he pulls a weapon, you'd best at least have your hand on yours. BUT you don't want it to get to this point.

Do you draw and fire? Draw and give a warning? Just give up your belongings and call yourself luck to be alive?

If your life is in danger, draw and fire if you must. None of this is written in stone. It's not always a play by play scenario, but be sure of this: DON'T give him anything, DO tell him NO, DO keep your distance and MAKE SURE he keeps his. More than likely if he sees that you are a man who is confident, unintimidated and aware of his surroundings he won't persist. A retired LEO told me a while back that if a criminal can think of just one reason not to do something, then he won't do it. They are cowards and the very reason they are criminals is because they are cowards and too lazy to do anything much less risk their health over something.

If your gun in anyway is produced, CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY and tell them what happened. Even if it is just putting your hand on the grip visibly to make him retreat from a threat. If you don't, then he might and will have a different story to tell them.