Brandishing is the intentional showing of your firearm in a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manner, not justified in self-defense.

This Is Illegal...

On December 10, 2020, Thomas Michael Bartlett was making a U turn in Cape Coral, FL, when the driver behind him began to tailgate. This made Bartlett extremely upset, so he moved into another lane and slowed down, allowing the other driver to pull up beside him. It was at this point that Bartlett pointed a pistol at the other driver. 

The victim immediately slammed on the brakes in a desperate attempt to get away from Bartlett, which was a brilliant strategy. Bartlett was arrested at his home later that day for the improper exhibition of a dangerous weapon or firearm, also known as brandishing.

Understanding Florida Concealed Carry Laws...

Here’s what the law says.

Florida Statutes 790.10  Improper exhibition of dangerous weapons or firearms.—If any person having or carrying any dirk, sword, sword cane, firearm, electric weapon or device, or other weapon shall, in the presence of one or more persons, exhibit the same in a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manner, not in necessary self-defense…

This statute clearly states that brandishing is when a person threatens the use of a firearm or weapon when it is not necessary in self-defense.

When Is It Legal to Use a Firearm in Self Defense?

Clearly Bartlett did not have a right to use a weapon in self-defense because someone was tailgating him. 

Thats all I have for today. So until next time keep training and stay safe...

Ryan G. Thomas

P.S. You’re one step away from getting your Florida concealed carry permit….FAST & EASY…

And for a limited time you can watch the concealed carry course online for free... Click here to get started...