A seriously flawed response is what happened. The old expression "I am the weapon, my gun is just a tool" applies. It is not the presence of your gun or even your intent/ability to draw it that is the key. It is your mental state and level of mental preparedness that rules the event. You must replay such possibilities over and over in your head. Imagine a shooting/hostage taking scenario every time you enter a public place. When you walk in, first mentally map the exits. Then scan the people in the area for out-of-place or suspicious persons. Trust your gut. If someone doesn't look warm&fuzzy, chances are they're not. Then play out in your mind "What If?", what'll you do when A or B occurs. If you can't imagine it, you can't DO it. Spend a little time learning the difference between cover and concealment. Despit what TV tells you, bullets DO go through furniture, windows, car doors even. And remember: A) Only draw your gun to use it. B) When you draw, fire it. C) Shoot to stop what they're doing. Not to scare, intimidate, wound or warn anyone. You must be ready to end the life of another human being. If you can't readily accept that possiblity, then leave the gun at home. You are not hero material, you are a liability, to yourself or others. Good intentions are quite admirable. However, they are not enough. Your mental CONDITION status will prevail over/in spite of, the equipment you bring to bear. You WILL fight like you train. Don't just train your trigger finger. Train your brain. And now, back to the thread, already in progress...