Try this before you make your decision-
Go to the website of "Front Sight Firearms Training"
Subscribe to their daily email newsletter about firearms training . They provide lots of information on how when and why to have a defensive weapon but most importantly they provide the information on the grave decision to actually use one. I am licensed in many states, I have taken several courses and the Front Sight course in Nevada and I'll tell you that it is not a decision to be taken lightly. Get the info first, make your own decision to carry or not and if you do get a professional training course and not just one of the 8 hr, 25 shots at a target CCW courses. You will also learn WHERE you are allowed to have a weapon in your possession as you travel. All states and cities are not created equal.