I registered the first time I came across this site. I carry a Hi Point .45, open more often than not, though I have a permit. The weapon suits me fine; the only problem I've had was a tendency for the magazine to release accidently. I added a pen spring to the button-side of the safety, and the problem went away.
I am very adamant about OUR 2nd Amendment rights. People ask why I carry a gun, the answer is "Because I can". The three most important things about a hand gun are caliber, caliber, and caliber. This assumes the carrier to be safety-conscious, know the local laws governing carrying one, and not be a hot-headed idiot. A junk .22 will kill you just as dead as a junk .45, and a bad attitude will get you killed or locked up much easier than a calm, professional demeanor. There is no such thing as a "minor gunshot wound"; shot is shot, and it is ALWAYS serious. I believe every law-abiding citizen of the US has a duty, if not to actually carry a side arm, at least to know how they work and what they can do. Instead of sweeping it under the rug and making 500 ft no-gun zones around schools and the like, I believe firearm education and safety should be required in grade school. Take the mystery and romance out of people's attitude toward them, along with the irrational fear (though a healthy dose of something between fear and respect is a must if one is to carry a loaded weapon); replace them with knowledge and a bit of experience. and stop showing people getting shot on TV walking around two days later in a shoulder sling, as if being shot were merely a minor annoyance.
Keep your powder dry!
KBV