How to Detect a Weapon

image from defendertech.com

Would you like to know who is armed? Would you like to know the type of weapon they are carrying? Would you like to know where on their body the weapon is concealed?

It is unfortunate that the first indication many people have of the presence of a weapon is when it is used against them. This is especially tragic in light of the fact that persons carrying concealed weapons exhibit behaviors and characteristics that and alert and aware individual can recognize and identify.

Throughout the years I have found myself in various professions, jobs and situations in which it was necessary that I be able to detect the presence of a weapon. Some of those positions required that I undertake the unpleasant and undignified tact of executing full body strip searches. You may take me at my word when I assure you, this is not a job you would ever wish to have if you have other options available to you.

Other searches are only slightly less undignified in that they require “pat down” body searches. Be advised, the casual and superficial nature by which these searches are portrayed in the entertainment industry have only the most coincidental similarities with the actual practice. For example, the entertainment industry NEVER portrays the nauseating necessity of lifting and searching under a man’s genitals in search of a concealed weapon. Nonetheless, this is an absolutely imperative portion of the physical search.

However, there are signs which can alert you to the presence of a weapon without a physical search.

Here are some of the common signs.

1. Concealed hands are an indication of a concealed weapon. However, directing someone to take their hands from their pockets is tantamount to giving them permission to take a weapon from their pocket.
2. Folded arms which obscure the view of the hands are also an indication of a weapon.
3. Heavy jackets are excellent concealment for a weapon in a waistband. The waist is the most common area for carrying a concealed weapon.
4. Be particularly aware of extremely loose or baggy clothing especially in the weather does not warrant such attire.
5. Most weapons are heavy. Carrying a weapon in a jacket pocket will cause the jacket to hang lower on one side.
6. Again, due to weight, weapons often show in outline form on the concealing clothing.
7. Unusual bulges are worthy of attention.
8. Body language is a fair indicator of the presence of a concealed weapon.
1. Crossed arms.
2. Hands in pockets.
3. Hands “hovering” around the waist area.
4. Repeated touching of high probability areas.
9. Be aware of unusual gaits. Individuals with weapons concealed in the legs of their pants or in their socks often walk in a ginger manner to prevent the weapon accidentally dislodging from the place of concealment.
10. People who are not used to carrying concealed weapons usually behave in a very paranoid manner and often cast furtive glances all about them to see if they are being observed.

As with most behavioral indicators, the more these indicators cluster the greater the likelihood of there accuracy.

Additional areas of concern in potentially dangerous situations are related to the availability of cover and concealment.

These are important concepts for you to understand whether as a potential safe have for yourself or as a resource for dangerous individuals to exploit.

Concealment is any object that can be positioned between you and a threat that obscures your vision of that threat. Cover would add the characteristics that the obstruction has the ability to stop a fired round.

Five commonplace examples:

1. Buildings

2. Large trees

3. Fire hydrants

4. Automobiles

5. Statuary.

It is not my intent to that this writing generate fear or paranoia. I write as one is a husband and father dedicated to the safety of my family and friends. Knowledge is power.

It is important that even in these troubling topics we do not despair and remember the strength we have in each other. These authors make a great counter-balance to the safety zone I enter of detached observations in times of crisis.

Aloha for Virginia Tech: Choosing to Respond. Rosa Say.
Voices of Aloha, Voices of Strength. Rosa Say.
Let Love Be Your Legacy: Thoughts About Virginia Tech. Phil Gerbyshak.

Elemental Value Added Truth: Failing to plan is planning to fail.