What should I do if I see someone pull out a gun in a crowded subway compartment?

Just about every subway system I can think of is located in a city or state that has substantial restrictions on private gun ownership and possession. For that reason, I think the advice that includes using your own weapon to defend yourself is inapplicable unless you happen to be a law enforcement officer who can lawfully carry a firearm in a subway. If that is the case, you should already know what to do.

Even armed law enforcement officers in street clothes might not immediately intervene with their firearm. Each one of these situations is unique and rapidly evolving, and the most appropriate tactics can change from one moment to the next. There is no single pat answer to the problem.

In a crowded subway car, any exposed firearm is a potential hazard to all those present. Unless you are very close to the aggressor, it's likely you don't have a clear field of fire, and even if you do, you may not have an appropriate background (people or objects to the rear of the bad guy that might get hit if you fire and miss). If you are close enough to the aggressor to have a clear field of fire, you're probably close enough that he can grab and potentially take control of your weapon. Police officers are trained in weapon retention techniques, but few are so skilled in these that they cannot be overcome by an opponent with superior strength, reach or skill, or one whose response to pain is dulled by drugs.

Although it might seem cowardly, and contrary to the ethos of most cops, the best thing to do may be nothing. People will display firearms for intimidation purposes, and will only shoot if they have no other option. If they perceive that their effort to intimidate and cow other people is succeeding, they may smile and retreat at the first opportunity, believing they have accomplished their intended goal. At that point, someone wishing or with an obligation to intervene can follow the aggressor to an area more tactically favorable for a confrontation, or just follow and keep the aggressor in sight until reinforcements can appear.

No one wants to have to submit to the will of a bully, but it may be the best approach, at least in the short term. Give it a few minutes, and you may yet get the upper hand.

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