Quote Originally Posted by RickThai
As far as gun safety, most professionals who require the use of guns regularly keep a round in the chamber when in the "ready" position. Do you think most cops walk around with their guns unloaded?
I think this depends entirely on the type of gun you have. A double action revolver is arguably a safer weapon in the situations you describe. If not then a double action semi-automatic could be used safely with a chambered round. I don't think your Colt .45 is the best choice of weapon even for ex-service personnel.

Now I have a question for you:

You are walking through town at night in an unlit area when you notice a couple of youths trying to break into a car. Your physique is such that you can stop the two guys with reasonable ease and you have the standard service combat training. What would you do?