1. To "win" at self-defense, the only hurdle you need to clear is being cleared of criminal charges.

2. Do not rely on others to call 911 for you; call yourself so your call is documented (recorded) and to ensure facts are clear.

3. When asked by a law enforcement officer if you are armed, in Minnesota you do not have to answer that question.

4. AOJ-P is short for Ability, Opportunity, Jeopardy and Preclusion. If all four elements are satisfied, the use of deadly force is generally authorized. The AOJ-P analysis is used to identify a real threat and imminence of the danger being faced.

5. Everything you need to know about gun laws and use of force can be learned by reading the state statutes.

6. The levels of proof are: Mere suspicion, articulable suspicion, probable cause, preponderance of the evidence and beyond a reasonable doubt

7. Using excessive force to defend yourself could result in criminal charges.

8. In the state of Minnesota, statute 609.99 authorizes a private citizen the right to use reasonable force toward another in self-defense.

9. As a very general rule, no one is obligated to speak to the police, but even non-verbal communication can, in some situations, be incriminating.

10. After notifying a police officer that you are carrying a firearm, if there are specific instructions given by the officer that you do not understand, ask for clarification.

11. The two primary reasons "open carry" is a bad idea include: (1) There is a high probability that anyone who sees you with a handgun will call 911 and law enforcement will be forced to waste their time and yours investigating your lawful right to carry. (2) You are alerting potential attackers that you have a gun which eliminates or greatly reduces your tactical advantage. Why give others (criminals) the advance notice that you are carrying a firearm?

12. A claim of self-defense requires that you be an innocent party and a reluctant participant in the altercation.

13. Some states do not regulate "carry" at all (aka Constitutional Carry) with the exception of having an age requirement and not being a person prohibited from owning a firearm.

14. The element of "Opportunity" represents the attackers range to use their "ability" to injure you. Opportunity is often discussed using the Tueller Drill.

15. Semi-automatics are generally considered to be less complicated to operate than revolvers.

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