I titled yesterday’s post “Not Tacticool” and then didn’t explain why.  Here’s why:

“Tactical” is word that appears on just about every web site and in every magazine dedicated to the shooting sport.  Tactical gear is recognized by the plethora of pockets, zippers, tabs, loops, buckles, snaps, compartments, and the like.  Take for example, the 5.11 Stryke Pants. Whatever one’s opinion of the fashion statement, there is no mistaking these pants for upscale, casual khakis. And thus is born the concept of “tacticool.”

There are some (okay, perhaps a lot) folks who are so into the gun culture that they adorn themselves with tactical pants, tactical shirts, tactical belts, tactical boots, etc.  They equip themselves with pocket knives, flashlights, concealed-carry holsters, extra magazine carriers, and enough gadgetry to make Batman envious.

But here’s the rub:  These “tacticool” people are so obvious by how they dress, that if there were ever an active shooter situation, of the kind we’ve heard and read about so much lately, these folks stand out as if they’d painted a target on themselves.  A target that says, “hey, look at me – I’ve got a concealed handgun.  You’d best shoot me first!”

The truth is, for me, that I’m a jeans-and-tshirt kind of guy.  I don’t want to go “tacticool” and look so out of sorts everywhere I go.  That’s why I’m being “not tacticool.”