"I know how SOME gun enthusiasts, especially some of those who insist on going armed at all times, tend to think and what their proclivities are."

And in my opinion those folks are looking for a fight and hope they find it. In my entire life I've NEVER been in a situation where having a gun on me would have helped me or kept me safe. Those situations are more rare than hens teeth. Common sense and a good pair of feet will usually take care of any situation.