Probably time to close this thread then. I could not meet these requirements that have been set forth to justify talking about a whistle, much less a firearm. It might be best to start a policy that states "Any time the word gun or firearm is mentioned the thread will be closed". I would be fine with that. I wouldn't agree with it, but I would respect it. If that's what ETS forum wants, I understand.

BTW, I always carry a whistle on my hikes. When climbing one of Colorados 14'ers it's not so much needed for if you get lost. More so to warn traffic on the trail that you are stopping forward movement, lest you get stomped to death by the hoards.