The Power of Words

By Paul Rackley (RSS)

November 04, 2011

Words have power that can be used both for good and evil. Encouraging words can build a person’s self esteem, while insulting words can hurt someone for years or even decades. And commanding words can save someone’s life.

Just because you are holding a handgun on a potential attacker does not mean the situation is over. Hardened criminals seem to be able to smell fear and can usually tell if a person is reluctant to pull the trigger. They perceive this as weakness because they often don’t understand how average citizens can put such a high value on human life. Because of this, some assailants might believe you are bluffing. You can convince them otherwise with the power of words.

Verbal commands can be as important in a self-defense situation as a gun, and you should practice the commands you are liable to use in a situation at the range. Words like STOP, GET DOWN and I HAVE A GUN spoken with authority can be the difference between giving a description to the police and explaining why you had to pull the trigger. But, you have to put power in those words. Next time you’re at the range, practice verbal commands and be powerful with them. They could keep you having to use your gun.

Tags:  blogs,  handgun training,  paul rackley,  rackattack,  self defense,  the power of words,  verbal commands

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8 Responses to The Power of Words

Dlyn wrote:
November 09, 2011

I think we need to pay attention to Mary's post. What is usually meant is, 'Don't pull a gun unless you are WILLING to shoot.' But sometimes it is said "Unless you are going to shoot." Meaning you are going to shoot unless the threat stops. But that is a careless way of speaking that gives new shooters the wrong idea. Be careful how you say things. The misunderstanding is not Mary's fault. It is us old shooter's careless words.

Steve wrote:
November 06, 2011

First anyone who owns a gun should practice regularly, including drawing it from the holster or bag you normally carry it. Then you should also think about the situations when you might use it, like going to your car at the mall. Finally, you think about your posture if you ever needed to draw your weapon, including what you will say. A short rehearsed speech like "I have a gun and I will shoot if you do not leave NOW" could be the most important step to winning a dangerous encounter

Chris wrote:
November 04, 2011

Mary, pulling a gun on someone is a felony just the same if you are not justified in doing so. However, you are not required to shoot simply because you’ve pulled your gun. Give your attacker every option to flee; only if they continue to pursue the assault or show no signs of backing down should you fire. In almost all cases, simply brandishing your gun (i.e. displaying that you have one without actually drawing it) is enough to resolve the situation. If you are too nervous, or don’t have the mentality to face such a situation and handle it with confidence, you shouldn’t carry a firearm.

Mark wrote:
November 04, 2011

I have had pull my gun. It wasn't fun. Obviously you don't have to use it. You shouldn't even want to use it. Actually killing someone will not give you a macho feeling for long. Being prepared to use it is not the same as doing it.

Jason wrote:
November 04, 2011

You do not have to shoot just because you drew your weapon. But I would definitely recommend calling the police and filing a report if you do draw your weapon ever. That way an attacker could not report you for brandishing a weapon. It is always best to make sure your story is heard first

Your Namecharles byrd wrote:
November 04, 2011

Comments.. I agree that words are a great asset when used right in such a situation, but i would use the words first before pulling my gun. A scared person whom is nervous is liable to pull the trigger prematurally. My rule of thumb is dont pull it unless your gonna use it. I have had a gun permit for almost 10yrs and have never had to pull my gun the first time thank the lord.

mary papini wrote:
November 04, 2011

i thought if you pull a gun, you are supposed to shoot no matter what ? is that not true? can you pull a gun on an attacker and not shoot?

Wendy wrote:
November 04, 2011

Amen... but I also suggest before you carry a gun, search your soul and really decide if you could pull the trigger and with that in mind, let that be the decision you make before you pull out the gun. My daddy always told me to never point a gun at someone you dont fully intend to use it on. good advise for not having it taken away and used on you.