I gotcha. But, just to clarify, what I meant was not to look bad-a$$ but to give people pause and make them decide if tangling with you is worth the risk.

If we're "migrating", ne'er-do-wells may opt to hassle someone who is not clearly armed and take their supplies rather than someone who is visibly a risk.

But again, that was my initial query.

After some thought and reading everyone's responses, I agree that it's best to keep what resources you have (self-defense weapons included) under wraps.

And no, I have no delusions of Matrix-like shoot outs or holing up with an armory. If it came down to it and I had to use a firearm to defend myself, I am aware (and accept) that it will be brief and brutal, regardless of who will actually win (much like real street fights or hand-to-hand self defense situations).