Criminals may be hesitant

To the editor:

I was very pleased to read your recent editorial about concealed-weapons permits. It is a well-known fact that criminals do not care about whether or not they have a permit to carry. They will carry anyway. However, once the general citizenry is authorized to carry concealed weapons, the criminal element will often give a second thought before pulling a weapon, as they don't know when they might have to face a weapon in return from a prepared citizen. While I may not carry on every occasion, it is comforting to know that I have the right and, when carrying, will be better prepared to defend myself and my loved ones within the limits of the law.

RONALD McCALL

Springfield, Mo.