One of the all time best ways to get some great exercise is to go for a run. However, while you’re out there pounding pavement and sucking wind you must understand your vulnerability and take steps to protect yourself.
A small frame revolver can be a great jogging gun with the right holster.
I’ve been a distance jogger for over ten years and fortunately my worst stories of danger on the road include only some unfriendly aggressive dogs and rude drivers. Unfortunately, others have experienced much worse such as abduction, rape, and murder and even death by wild animals or packs of vicious dogs. We haven’t even discussed the threat from all the inattentive drivers on the roadway.
I found this recent news story to be particularly disturbing reference a 60 year old jogger being gunned down apparently at random while standing on a street corner in a Kansas City suburb. Police have reason to believe that a gang initiation maybe a possible motive. There is probably little or nothing that this poor man could have done differently to protect himself from such a senseless, savage attack. The rest of us should reflect on this chilling tragedy and make a renewed effort to to sharpen one of our best weapons, situational awareness.
Avoidance is often the best protection and it’s easiest to accomplish if you can see the trouble coming from a long ways away. How about head phones? Many people probably can’t imagine going on a run without listening to music, but I think most would agree that by “tuning in” to your grooves you greatly diminish your awareness.
Everybody is going to approach this unique aspect of personal protection differently and while carrying a pistol while jogging maybe a great option for some it is not going to be realistic for all. This is one of the few legitimate times to use that fanny pack for concealed carry! A can of OC/CS spray might also be another great option for dealing with pesky dogs. Regardless of whether or not you choose to carry any type of a weapon while out for a run, think through your route and consider any way possible to be more alert and mitigate threats.
Look for a review of the some running holster options coming soon on JTT.
