I believe that concealed carry is tactically advantageous to open carry. If things go "South", the anyone with a gun on their hip will likely be the first target. Others may argue that open carry is more about "prevention than cure" since the mere presence of a armed defender may prevent an attack. I also know that some believe that an armed society is a polite society, but I don't believe that the presence of guns will deescalate a confrontation.
My real issue with open carry is that the law applies to all "walks of life" and can used to intimidate or coerce others. If a bunch of "gang-banger looking" characters walked into a business and asked about a "special discount" it would be pretty intimidating. Even if you are armed, you could be out-numbered. The other issue I have is potential harassment by police officers who have much better things to be doing with their time. As far as I know, everyone has to pass a criminal background check to get a concealed weapons permit. With open carry would a carry permit be required? Would it result in senselessly stopping and requesting carry permits?
What are your thoughts?