List Your Open Carry Experiences Here

[FerretMI]

OCed getting gas, getting soda, and picking up an order from BW3s. It's been a long time since anyone has said anything about my sidearm.

Side note; Thanksgiving week I'm driving to Buffalo through Canada. It will be the first time in over a year that I'll go more than a day without being armed. It will be an interesting feeling.

I refuse to go to Buffalo Wild Wings after several instances of anti-gun policies throughout the states. I know not everyone likes to boycott, but if you didn't know that they often take such a stance I wanted to tell you.

 

[jeffrey-r]

The location I go to isn't posted and I've never had any issues there, so I'll keep going until that changes. Thanks for the heads up though.

 

[popa]

OC'd at Clay Township municipal offices, the recycling center, post office lobby,General RV, Staples, Dunhams, Happys, back to Staples (to pickup my MOC trifold order) and Walgreens.....


.....oh yeah, and once again as it should be...nobody seems to care

I haven't posted here in a long time. I like to lurk, learn, and laugh.

I am not a lawyer or even a gun law guru. However; the text highlighted above has me concerned. Last I knew it was illegal to carry conceiled or openly on Federal Property. I think the Post Office lobby qualifies as "Federal Property". Although I believe there was a court case exempting post office parking lots.

Again, I am not a lawyer or guru, just hate to see somebody get jammed up on a misunderstanding.

Somebody please chime in if I am wrong.

 

[mrvelous01]

Ferndale Foodland - unfriendly to OC

I was shopping at Ferndale Foods (Foodland?) at 600 W 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220, this morning and was approached by the manager and a cashier. He asked me if I was "police" and I said no. He asked me to cover my gun and I told him that would be a violation of state law. He said "the customers are worried". I asked "are you asking me to leave your store because if you are then I will leave immediately". Every response after that was the same "the customers are worried". I told him that Michigan law permits me to openly carry a gun but if you want me to leave your store I will but I will also not make any purchases". "The customers are worried". I left the store, stowed my gun and holster in my car then returned with a MIOC informational pamphlet (and my concealed .380 in my pocket ). I said "this pamphlet explains Michigan's laws regarding openly carrying a gun". He took it then gave it back saying "I believe you ... but the customers are worried". Yeah, whatever. I'll stick with Kroger now - they give me gas discounts anyways.

 

[fozzy71]

I refuse to go to Buffalo Wild Wings after several instances of anti-gun policies throughout the states. I know not everyone likes to boycott, but if you didn't know that they often take such a stance I wanted to tell you.

The location I go to isn't posted and I've never had any issues there, so I'll keep going until that changes. Thanks for the heads up though.

My understanding is they have a corporate policy against carry but all the Michigan locations are owned by a franchisee that allows carry in contradiction of the corp policy. I have never been to one.

OC'd at Clay Township municipal offices, the recycling center, post office lobby,General RV, Staples, Dunhams, Happys, back to Staples (to pickup my MOC trifold order) and Walgreens.....


.....oh yeah, and once again as it should be...nobody seems to care

You are lucky no one at the post office took notice.

I haven't posted here in a long time. I like to lurk, learn, and laugh.

I am not a lawyer or even a gun law guru. However; the text highlighted above has me concerned. Last I knew it was illegal to carry conceiled or openly on Federal Property. I think the Post Office lobby qualifies as "Federal Property". Although I believe there was a court case exempting post office parking lots.

Again, I am not a lawyer or guru, just hate to see somebody get jammed up on a misunderstanding.

Somebody please chime in if I am wrong.

You are correct AFAIK.

I was shopping at Ferndale Foods (Foodland?) at 600 W 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220, this morning and was approached by the manager and a cashier. He asked me if I was "police" and I said no. He asked me to cover my gun and I told him that would be a violation of state law. He said "the customers are worried". I asked "are you asking me to leave your store because if you are then I will leave immediately". Every response after that was the same "the customers are worried". I told him that Michigan law permits me to openly carry a gun but if you want me to leave your store I will but I will also not make any purchases". "The customers are worried". I left the store, stowed my gun and holster in my car then returned with a MIOC informational pamphlet (and my concealed .380 in my pocket ). I said "this pamphlet explains Michigan's laws regarding openly carrying a gun". He took it then gave it back saying "I believe you ... but the customers are worried". Yeah, whatever. I'll stick with Kroger now - they give me gas discounts anyways.

It would only be against the law if you didn't have a CPL, which you indicate you do in fact have. It would be against the law to OC there if you did not have a CPL since they have a Liquor License.

I refused to CC at one store when asked but it was not due to them having a LL.... It was because I didn't want one of the 8 - 10 deputies watching the interaction with the store owner to have PC to ask me for my ID/CPL.

 

[motopimp]

I did actually untuck and cover on that one. Apologies for flatly reciting it in the todo list. U.S.C. statutes on possesion conflict, (ot for this thread) YMMV, fullproof legal standpoint is don't carry in P.O.. either method.

 

[jeffrey-r]

OCed for a while at a craft fair where my mom had a table. It was at an American House senior assisted living center. No one said anything, no one seemed to notice. I was sitting most of the time, but I did get up and walk around to get food a couple of times. No big deal.

 

[DocWalker]

I was shopping at Ferndale Foods (Foodland?) at 600 W 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220, this morning and was approached by the manager and a cashier. He asked me if I was "police" and I said no. He asked me to cover my gun and I told him that would be a violation of state law. He said "the customers are worried". I asked "are you asking me to leave your store because if you are then I will leave immediately". Every response after that was the same "the customers are worried". I told him that Michigan law permits me to openly carry a gun but if you want me to leave your store I will but I will also not make any purchases". "The customers are worried". I left the store, stowed my gun and holster in my car then returned with a MIOC informational pamphlet (and my concealed .380 in my pocket ). I said "this pamphlet explains Michigan's laws regarding openly carrying a gun". He took it then gave it back saying "I believe you ... but the customers are worried". Yeah, whatever. I'll stick with Kroger now - they give me gas discounts anyways.

You should have told him that "As a customer I'm worried about the guy in the red shirt" could you please go harrass him also.

 

[Raggs]

I was shopping at Ferndale Foods (Foodland?) at 600 W 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220, this morning and was approached by the manager and a cashier. He asked me if I was "police" and I said no. He asked me to cover my gun and I told him that would be a violation of state law. He said "the customers are worried". I asked "are you asking me to leave your store because if you are then I will leave immediately". Every response after that was the same "the customers are worried". I told him that Michigan law permits me to openly carry a gun but if you want me to leave your store I will but I will also not make any purchases". "The customers are worried". I left the store, stowed my gun and holster in my car then returned with a MIOC informational pamphlet (and my concealed .380 in my pocket ). I said "this pamphlet explains Michigan's laws regarding openly carrying a gun". He took it then gave it back saying "I believe you ... but the customers are worried". Yeah, whatever. I'll stick with Kroger now - they give me gas discounts anyways.

Did he ever ask you to leave? I would think that if his only complaint as that "customers are worried" and that he never asked you to leave you could have gone on shopping. I would also suggest you contact the higher ups at the store and see what their policies are on firearms. Not that you will necessarily like the reply.
You could also have mentioned that you are sorry they are "worried" but that the legal carrying of a firearm should not worry anyone and you can't be to blame for unfounded fear of a inanimate object.
Or like you said, just go to Kroger.

 

[smellslikemichigan]

Got a couple nice comments in Lowes in Sterling Heights on Hall Rd. Both folks were employees and I had a nice conversation, neither were gun owners, but both were very interested in self-defense.

 

[Bikenut]

I haven't been posting my OC experiences lately because no matter where I go nothing happens and no one cares... and that is really a testament to the open carry movement being a success.

And today I OC'd at:

Lamplighter Flowers in Bridgeport where the owners .. Dale and Debbie.. were as friendly and personable as ever. And they are excellent florists too. They helped Yooperlady pick out her roses (I believe my sweet Hunnie should always have flowers on her kitchen table) and then gifted them to her just because.

Then on to Taco Bell in Clio where a couple of ladies in line behind us were surprised to find we had left $5 to help pay for their lunch. They were appreciative and said they would pay it forward too.

And then... I got super lucky! I found a 100 round value pack of 9mm STILL ON THE SHELF! at Wal Mart. It isn't on the shelf any longer! And while at Wal Mart Yooperlady wanted to do a little shopping alone (betcha she was buying stuff for me!) so I wandered around the store and wound up talking with several folks. Not one balked or blanched or even gave any sign that my sidearm bothered them.. and yes.. I saw them glance at my hip.

Again I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to those few brave pioneers who decided to put the legality of the right to bear arms openly in Michigan to the test. Without you guys all this would never have happened. You guys fully deserve this....

Thank you.

 

[Billy]

Good report, Mister Bikenut ~

Last Saturday my family mustered at the Midland Dow High School for the big send-off of the 1460th Transportation Company (Mich. National Guard), of which my little brother-in-Christ (Danny) is a member therein. A couple of days prior to the event I phoned the Tri-City MSP and spoke to a rather disinterested female duty sergeant, to give the State Troopers a courtesy "heads up" that I'd be open carrying with all lawful intent at that high school. Also spoke with Midland County Sheriff Scott Stevenson, who proved to be patriotic and supportive. Not only did he thank me for contacting him but he, 1) contacted Midland Police to give them a heads-up and, 2) gave me directions to the school from off of I-10.

We arrived forty minutes prior to the kick-off (at 1400) and the entire parking lot was filled. The Patriot Guard riders were there en force with large American flags in hand. Lots of veterans were in attendance and many, like me, sported there old unit patches and/or jackets. The gymnasium was packed to capacity and there was not one single instance of anyone being angry, upset or giving a look of disapproval with me open-carrying (along with two extra mags in the pouch, and, a sheathed Buck knife). Following the ceremony I got to meet a bunch of Danny's family members and friends along with some of his fellow troopers. Met the company commander, a pretty Lt. Col. and shook hands, putting in dibs for Danny to get promoted... : ) Also met Danny's 1st Sergeant of the company, a huge fellow built like a conex box. He actually thanked me for open-carrying.

It was a great event and the men and women of the 1460th flew out that Sunday for a couple months of work-ups at Fort Hood, Texas before being shipped to Afghanistan for a total of a one year deployment. No police were summoned by my presence. It was a large patriotic crowd, for sure.

Take care friends and carry on!

Respectfully,

Billy
-veteran of U.S. Naval Special Warfare

 

[Bikenut]

Thank you for telling us of your experience in Midland Billy... warmed both mine and Yooperlady's hearts.

 

[Raggs]

Ihop

open carried during breakfast after removing my coat, server noticed but did not say anything, breakfast was good conversation was even better!

 

[lil_freak_66]

Been all over lately....

Today I went to great lakes crossing with no issues, got an iwb. Glock prices there are outrageous, their "sale" price on model 19s of any gen is $50 over normal price anywhere else!

Also went to Applebee no issues.

 

[Scooter]

Went to SAM's Club on Friday (not for "black Friday" items, just regular shopping) Went in wearing a jacket CC then took it off when I got too warm so I was OCing for about an hour. Not terribly busy but, as busy as a good Saturday there. A few looks from some folks but nothing bad, mostly people commenting on our 2 and a half month old daughter. When we checked out the cashier asked about my M&P so we had a nice gun convo. I explained I do firearms training and he was interested. As we were talking one of the head cashiers walked up and got in on the discussion. End result? Two people who will be getting training! Good day to say the least!
I continue to OC everywhere possible as weather allows. Never a problem as has become the norm. Thanks to all the folks who have fought to make it so!

 

[Glock214]

I have been open carrying however haven't posted in awhile so I thought I would post today. Currently OC'ing at McDonalds in Holland, no looks from anyone, however still eating. I forgot they served breakfast until 10:30am. I was only stopping in for some sweet tea, now I'm enjoying breakfast, good morning. Will be OC'ing all day today.

On a good note, my whole family now supports OC! I OC around them all the time. I know they are now looking at getting firearms too.

I'm going to try and keep OC'ing however joining a reserve program I'm not sure how the department would feel about their officers OC'ing. So I may have to start CC carry, bummed about that, but don't want to lose a great opportunity. Anyway, carry on my friends!

 

[DocWalker]

I have been open carrying however haven't posted in awhile so I thought I would post today. Currently OC'ing at McDonalds in Holland, no looks from anyone, however still eating. I forgot they served breakfast until 10:30am. I was only stopping in for some sweet tea, now I'm enjoying breakfast, good morning. Will be OC'ing all day today.

On a good note, my whole family now supports OC! I OC around them all the time. I know they are now looking at getting firearms too.

I'm going to try and keep OC'ing however joining a reserve program I'm not sure how the department would feel about their officers OC'ing. So I may have to start CC carry, bummed about that, but don't want to lose a great opportunity. Anyway, carry on my friends!

I don't get how an organization (sheriff dept.) that is sworn to uphold the US Constitution and the laws could look down on an activity that is both protected by the US Constitution and is the law. Anyone have any thoughts about that?

(Sprinkle in the proper amount of sarcasm for your taste...)

 

[Hevymetal]

I don't get how an organization (sheriff dept.) that is sworn to uphold the US Constitution and the laws could look down on an activity that is both protected by the US Constitution and is the law. Anyone have any thoughts about that?

(Sprinkle in the proper amount of sarcasm for your taste...)

Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe it boils down to the arbitrary whim of whomever happens to be in charge at that moment at that department.

Many departments frown upon it due to the fact "It blows your cover". They attempt to be incognito and observe a lot while off duty. OC brings a load of undo scrutiny on their part. Trust me, know how many times a day/week I have to reply "No, I'm not a cop"?

They have a misguided belief CC will give them a tactical advantage. (But that's another whole thread)

They are of the mentality that only THEY should be allowed to carry firearms.(Yet another whole thread)

Many departments are anti-gun.

They are offered lower liability insurance premiums. (Less likely to be involved, therefore sued for action/inaction in an incident)

Since they have no legal obligation to actually protect a person's life or stop a crime being committed. Don't get involved. (Although I do believe Federal agents have a completely different set of standards.)

But there are a few that don't care or actually encourage officers to OC as a way of making face time with the community, preventing crime, educating the community on the benefit of any form of carry and helping them get involved to be proactive in their own defense.

KUDOS! to those

I would suspect these areas where OC is supported do have lower crime rates and their citizens that are better prepared if something does happen.

Hevy

Edit: OT

OCed for the last week just about everywhere I went with nothing really unusual to report.

Most places I frequent are already used to me and don't give it a second thought.

The manager at the local Speedway was working earlier and training a new cashier and explained to her I was a regular and not to worry when her eyes bugged out as I approached the register to pay for gas. She smiled and said "Cool".

 

[Bikenut]

OC'd today at:

Independent Bank in Bridgeport where the most attention I got was the very personable teller wanting to know about my Thanksgiving holiday...

Lamplighter Flowers, also in Bridgeport, to get Yooperlady some roses (I think she should always have flowers on her kitchen table ... just because) where the owners... Dale and Debbie... spent some time with us in pleasant and friendly conversation...