J.T.:

Yours is a thoughtful post, in spite of the limitations of the written word on a cathode ray tube and the difficulties in undstanding tone and intent. You addressed my point: before blindly putting together a shirt-and-tie PSK, one should think about one really needs. Secondary, was my concern about the "I carry more" or "I carry less" viewpoints that miss the point of this website and preparedness in general.

I'm reminded of a well-known gun writer (no name mentioned) who was at a convention in Las Vegas. He was seen at the hotel pool with a gas mask bag and fanny pack. (Hell, I know that the commies have got some good missiles, but I didn't know that they could drop chem/bio on Vegas!) Even post-9/11, his preparedness was beyond what is appropriate, but he sure let everyone know that he was ready for anything, anytime, anywhere. <img src="images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Being unprepared is also wrong. The question is what is the right level of preparedness. My work "world" is between the Potomac and the Capitol. If I can't get to my gear in my office or at my home or a government shelter . . . . well, absent a pocket time machine in an Altoids tin, I'm f****d. <img src="images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> If I can get to my gear or government shelter, I'm good-to-go. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> These are my realistic expectations and I've made a decision not to carry a PSK with me everywhere I go every day I'm at work. So, thank you for rising to my challenge to explain why a shirt-and-tie PSK is necessary, if at all.

One other thing: Paramedic Pete's advice was outstanding. I neglected to mention that I do cary a photon or ASP with me. I've thought about keeping a whistle on me as well. But not for assaults or robberies. . . . It's fight or flight, depending upon circumstances. No whistles! As well, I do occasionally carry a pocket knife too, when appropriate. . . .