[Pond, James Pond]

I'm inclined to agree with John on this point.

Never backing down implies that confrontation is all but guaranteed unless the other backs down first. And if they don't?

Similarly Castle Doctrine and Stand your ground, give you certain additional legal rights in a confrontation situation, but nor is that a carte blanche to charge head-long into an altercation.

One thing I've learnt is when carrying a firearm is that it is in fact most wise to back down whenever the opportunity arises.
That can mean walking away, placating someone, anything to avoid it progressing to a physical confrontation at which point all bets are off.

Not doing so sounds more like pride over-ruling common sense.

Pride, firearms and subsequent court cases don't play well together.

Now if that is not what you meant, that is a different story, but your statement said "never" and, at face value, that is pretty unambiguous...