I just posted my life's experiences a little while ago that clearly tells a story of many years of being victimized, probably far more than statistics can even come close to. I'vebeen kidnapped 3 times, robbed, shot at, and honestly more incidents than I can even recall. What I believe saved my life and that others I didn't mention who were fortunate enough I was near by was my weapon. I carry all the time. And what I mean by all the time, I mean its on my hip no matter where I am, and under my pillow when I sleep. I don't go to the bathroom in my home without my gun in my hand. But if anyone were to have encountered as many certain life threatening events as I have I believe they would be as prepared as I am.
The first event in my life happened when I was 12 years old, I am now 54 yrs. of age. I was on my bike riding the 8 or 10 miles to a favorite rabbit hunting spot at the wee hours of the morning. A man in a truck stopped along side the road and asked me to stop, he needed directions if I recall. I was cautous enough to not get within reach of him, but he seemed to pick up on my vibe and wasted no time with any further small talk and grabbed for me and got hold of my coat. During the scuffle I was able to get hold of my 22 pistol and ended the attack with a shot fired. I missed him, but put a hole through his windshield.
So with that said, and sparing you a long list of deadly encounters, I say yes, keep your weapon within reach, always! I know I'm an exception regarding statistics for such incidents, but it is also statistics that a LEO will not be there when you are being victimized.
" When seconds count, the police are only a few minutes away "