Good conversation folks
Now, having said all that, I keep wondering what a routine traffic stop by a cop would be like for you, with a weapon on you as opposed to one without.
willw, a routine traffic stop with a carry can bereally hairy at first. But there is a procedure and most LEOs are very good at handling the situation. You will not be the first person they have stopped that is carry a CCW and you will not be their last. What you do when carrying and get pulled over. Here is that darn phrase again - EDUCATION AND TRAINING. KNOW YOUR STATE LAWS! Some states require that you inform the LEO you are carrying. Some states you do not need to tell him/her.
First and foremost, do EXACTLY and calmly as the officer tells you, to the very last letter! Do not argue. Yes sir. No sir. Thank you sir. And keep your hands on the steering wheel where he can see them.
When asked for your DL and insurance you also hand him your CPL. He will either ask you if you are carrying or he'll make conversation about it. That is up to the personality and good day/bad day the LEO is having. Whatever he does, remember, calm, yes sir, no sir, thank you sir, hands on the wheel. He might ask you to step out of the car whle he secures it. And that is ok, just let him, do not make a fuss. He will hand it to you at the end of the stop. He is only doing it for his protection in order to stay ahead of the situation. Remember, he does not know you. So he must treat you as the real bad guy who will kill him until he is sure otherwise. So, go along respectfully with everything the LEO asks you to do.
If you were pulled over for speeding the officer will either warn you, write a ticket or let you off. You take your lumps, say thank you ad go about the rest of your day.
As for knives, I don't even bring those up. The only time they will matter is if I'm being patted down and arrested and I don't intend to ever be in that position. If you are, of course, tell them you have a folder in your pocket or belt holster.
Folks are bring up great questions and good scenarios about "What if...?" There is a proper way to respond in every situation and those situations are covered by training and education. And by training and education, I'm saying find a reputable source you can talk to, courses you can sign up for, and reading articles in mags and reputable forums (I like TFL). A local store/range/sportsman club. There are some jerks, but there are some great folks who will help everyone, just like in the motorcycling community.
ps. Some LEOs don't know the exact laws when it comes to CCW. Some LEOs know the rules correctly. That is why I suggested that you print them out out (the ones regarding personal and car carry) and keep them with you in the car so that you can present them if there is a question. I suggest that you do not keep the papers and the firearm in the same location
