I have a friend that has open carried a few time in a hardware store and a grocery store. He said he never got a second look from anyone. I think it is all in how you are dressed. If you have a law enforcement looking gun and holster they think that you are a plane clothed cop. If you look like the hood and open carry you will get a lot of attention! I will only open carry around like minded individuals. Back to the pistol purchase permit. Just some info. I just renewed mine and I had it in 2 days. When I was there two new guys were getting theirs for the first time. The lady said that it has been very busy!