A side arm is a quick response weapon and what good is it really, if you can not respond quickly ? Therefore, I second many of the comments to carry with a chambered round - especially in these days DA autos'

For many years I carried a 9 mm Browning High Power with the hammer back and a round chambered.

I recall my (military) firearms instructor said something to the effect that; If your pistol is 'not at the ready' you better grind off the front sight....cause it's gonna hurt when the bad guy shoves your gun up your.....(decorum prevents me finishing the comment - butt - you get the idea).
If you are not carrying with a chambered round, you're carrying a club !

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'I know nothing'.. Sgt. Shultz