Understanding the Real Impact of Open Carry Laws on Event Security

In recent years, one of the hotly debated issues in both the political and public spheres is the right to open carry in public spaces. As proud supporters of the Second Amendment, we at Fortress Firearms Training believe this right is foundational—not only to self-defense, but to individual liberty as a whole. That’s why it’s so troubling to see increased criticism of open carry laws, particularly when arguments are based more on political posturing than actual public safety concerns.

The recent MSNBC article titled “How Open Carry Laws Complicate Security at Public Events” attempts to make the case that open carry disrupts security protocols and potentially deters public participation. While the article references incidents such as armed citizens attending events like those hosted by Charlie Kirk, it misses the larger and more important point: armed citizens are often the first line of defense against real threats.

The Role of Open Carry in Public Safety

Time and time again, research has shown that responsible gun owners can, and do, act as deterrents to crime. Open carry laws empower law-abiding citizens to take control of their own protection, especially at public events where mass shooters often see crowds as soft targets.

Let’s be crystal clear: when seconds count, law enforcement is minutes away. In such cases, a trained armed citizen can mean the difference between life and death. We train individuals every day at Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, to confidently and lawfully carry their weapons in public—not as vigilantes, but as prepared and responsible Americans.

Mischaracterization of the Open Carry Community

The MSNBC article paints a skewed picture of open carry supporters, implying intimidation and chaos during public events. However, what the mainstream media often fails to acknowledge is:

• The vast majority of open carry practitioners are law-abiding, background-checked, and thoroughly trained in appropriate firearm usage.
• Open carry acts as a form of deterrence, not provocation, when exercised responsibly.
• Events that attract pro-Second Amendment audiences tend to witness lower incidents of violent disruptions compared to their gun-free counterparts.

Yes, it’s fair to say that security teams must adapt and improve protocols in a society where responsible citizens are choosing to exercise their rights. But arguing against open carry based on those adaptations is like arguing against free speech because it causes “controversy.” The Constitution does not bend to convenience.

Why More Gun Control Isn’t the Answer

Throughout the piece, it’s evident the author leans heavily on the belief that fewer guns mean more safety. This utopian idea doesn’t hold weight in the real world. Criminals, by definition, do not follow laws. Disarming the citizenry only creates environments where violent individuals feel emboldened.

In places with stringent gun control, law-abiding citizens are left defenseless, while criminals ignore boundaries with impunity. Free Americans should not be forced to sit back and hope the government will arrive in time. We have the unalienable right to protect our lives, property, and loved ones.

Overreaching Legislation Threatens Your Rights

Each time a tragic event occurs, the gun control lobby uses it as an excuse to chip away at our freedoms. The MSNBC interpretation of how open carry “complicates” security is simply another call for more restrictive policies. Instead of blaming law-abiding gun owners, our society should focus on:

• Better mental health resources to address the root causes of violence
• Improved security protocols that respect constitutional rights
• Enhanced firearms education to cultivate responsible ownership

Penalizing the people who follow the rules will never create safer public spaces. In fact, it does the opposite. At Fortress Firearms Training, our mission revolves around educating firearm owners, increasing situational awareness, and preparing individuals to act responsibly under pressure.

Firearms Training is Vital in an Open Carry Society

If there’s one solution to open carry “complicating” public events, it’s not to ban weapons—it’s to increase training. Citizens who openly carry should be skilled in de-escalation tactics, understand proper etiquette, and maintain awareness of their surroundings. That’s exactly why we offer comprehensive courses here at our facility in Fountain Inn, SC.

Our programs at Fortress Firearms Training cover everything from basic handgun safety to advanced tactical readiness. We believe that the more educated and prepared a community is, the stronger—and safer—it becomes. Real security starts at the grassroots level, not by forcing sweeping laws from Washington, D.C.

The Bottom Line

The mainstream media will always search for a scapegoat to explain away issues of public violence. Right now, open carry laws and their proponents are the target. But remember this: the right to bear arms is not negotiable, especially not because someone finds it uncomfortable or politically inconvenient.

Rather than dismantle the freedoms that define our republic, we should empower individuals to be their own first responders. The answer lies in education, readiness, and respect for the Constitution—not in increased regulation. We invite you to join our classes, arm yourself with knowledge, and be part of a growing movement that stands by liberty.

Ready to take the next step in your firearms training journey? Visit https://www.fftcwp.org and secure your spot in one of our upcoming training sessions today. Your safety—and your freedom—deserve nothing less.