BajaNomad

Have you ever or do you now travel with a gun to Baja?

JZ - 9-3-2019 at 09:01 PM

?

Bajaboy - 9-3-2019 at 09:27 PM

WTF? I'm more concerned about getting blasted here in the USA. I go to Baja for mental sanity. I can't keep up with all the mass shootings in Merica.

Have Gun - Will Travel ?

MrBillM - 9-3-2019 at 10:44 PM

North or South one NEVER knows what ill might occur.

Statistically, while there are myriad individual risk factors involving (among others) location and environment, the chances of being a victim in Mexico are (overall) higher than the U.S., BUT your chances of being a victim are still low. A small fraction of one-percent.

That said, a Paranoid Pessimist (like me) might weigh the risks and say "Why the F not ?"

Traveling in Mexico over 40 years, I carried more often than not. Fortunately, without incident other than a couple of close calls during inspections.

Of course, traveling in the U.S. (usually armed), there have only been a very few incidents. Most long ago in a younger (and wilder) time.

Semper Paratus !

Just don't get caught.


[Edited on 9-4-2019 by MrBillM]

ehall - 9-4-2019 at 05:11 AM

Lol. Not a chance. I have seen the inside of a mexican jail.

AKgringo - 9-4-2019 at 07:23 AM

I do not carry in Mexico. I feel that the chances that having a firearm saves the day for you, are far out shadowed by the chances that it is going to be a big problem for you!

MMc - 9-4-2019 at 08:32 AM

Nope.

norte - 9-4-2019 at 08:55 AM

If I did, I sure would not admit to it here...Unless I never go to Mexico anymore like Mr. Bill.

That's TRUE !

MrBillM - 9-4-2019 at 09:22 AM

Those who are still making the journey would be ill-advised to admit that they carry no matter how remote the possibility they would suffer as a result. One never knows when they might irritate someone who would find the information useful for retribution.

Even though the odds were against discovery, the last gun that I still had in Baja is still there.

In pieces spread over a few square miles.

LancairDriver - 9-4-2019 at 11:26 AM

This question is like asking Israel if they have Nukes.

advrider - 9-4-2019 at 08:17 PM

Never leave home without one, except when I go to Mexico! In Mexico I have several can's of high power wasp spray, it would give me enough time to get away or take the gun pointed at me.
No way I want to see the inside of a Mexican prison, the US ones I work in are bad enough... Never felt like I needed one or wish I had one while in Baja!

Bajazly - 9-4-2019 at 08:33 PM

Wasp spray is what I’ve heard of too and plan on getting a couple cans. Is it available in Baja or is it just a US thing? Pepper spray might be good too and don’t think they mess with you here too much for that except for flying, can’t fly with it.

LancairDriver - 9-4-2019 at 08:55 PM

There was a time I was glad SOMEONE had a gun in Baja. Years ago I was on a motorcycle trip through Baja with a group of five. It was before the highway was finished and I was about 19 then. The trip was almost all through the desert on dirt to LaPaz. We were a little behind schedule and were running after dark to some planned destination for the night. We passed through a small town and encountered a hostile drunken gang of young people. We ignored them and kept on moving through. They all jumped in an old beater pickup and started to chase us. We ran for a few miles with them right behind us and finally decided it would be safer to stop running fast at night on an unknown road and see what the gang had in mind as everyone in our group was physically in good shape. As they piled out of the pickup we immediately saw they were armed with tire irons and at least one hammer. At this point one of our group pulled out a 357 revolver that none of us knew he had packed. He aimed just over the heads of the advancing gang and fired off a round. I can still remember the ear splitting report and the fire coming out of the barrel of the gun. The gang did an abrupt about face and fled the scene. With the way the Cartels are armed to the teeth today that would have been a suicidal move as we would have been badly outgunned. It thankfully worked that time and there were no repercussions.The rest of the trip was uneventful.

John Harper - 9-5-2019 at 05:58 AM

Two words: Bear Spray

I actually read some information in Wyoming about the use of a gun versus spray against bears. Surprisingly, the people who used bear spray were more likely to survive than the gun owners, by almost 2 to 1!!!.

I guess because the spray comes out in a cloud about 25-35 feet out, where as a panicked human likely shoots wildly or on the run. I don't feel so bad about leaving my .44 Magnum at home this summer and just packing bear spray.

It dawned on me that carrying bear spray against potential human threats, especially like somewhere in Baja, might be a great option. I used to pack a hunting slingshot and .44 caliber lead balls, figured that would keep any banditos at bay. You can be quite accurate with a good slingshot.

John





[Edited on 9-5-2019 by John Harper]

ehall - 9-5-2019 at 06:13 AM

Always take my mask, snorkel and spear gun when in my jeep.. Loaded spear gun is pretty intimidating.

Desertbull - 9-5-2019 at 06:36 AM

Wasp Spray is a myth as a weapon.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9Uy9MnQfk_0
Quote: Originally posted by advrider  
Never leave home without one, except when I go to Mexico! In Mexico I have several can's of high power wasp spray, it would give me enough time to get away or take the gun pointed at me.
No way I want to see the inside of a Mexican prison, the US ones I work in are bad enough... Never felt like I needed one or wish I had one while in Baja!

Desertbull - 9-5-2019 at 06:41 AM

Exactly ... unless you train as a shooter under stressful situations and you can hit a 30 mph moving target ... I’ve traveled extensively on my motorcycle solo thru the Yukon, Northwest Territories where the brown bear population is higher than the human population and rangers there only suggest Bear Spray for survival in a bear attack. Good info!


Quote: Originally posted by John Harper  
Two words: Bear Spray

I actually read some information in Wyoming about the use of a gun versus spray against bears. Surprisingly, the people who used bear spray were more likely to survive than the gun owners, by almost 2 to 1!!!.

I guess because the spray comes out in a cloud about 25-35 feet out, where as a panicked human likely shoots wildly or on the run. I don't feel so bad about leaving my .44 Magnum at home this summer and just packing bear spray.

It dawned on me that carrying bear spray against potential human threats, especially like somewhere in Baja, might be a great option. I used to pack a hunting slingshot and .44 caliber lead balls, figured that would keep any banditos at bay. You can be quite accurate with a good slingshot.

John





[Edited on 9-5-2019 by John Harper]

SFandH - 9-5-2019 at 06:59 AM

Pepper spray is a better option for self defense, according to this article:

"Bear spray is typically more expensive than pepper spray, and harder to carry with you at all times because of its size. Pepper spray is small, easy to use, and much stronger.

Your choice is clear: If you are serious about your self defense, buy a proper pepper spray. Leave the bear spray for the bears!"

https://www.selfdefenseninja.com/bear-spray-vs-pepper-spray-...

BajaRat - 9-5-2019 at 07:46 AM

22 cal Mendoza repeating pellet rifle, tree saws
Large dogs with attitude and a well traveled family
The Mexican 22 cal Mendoza’s come in models that can deliver both lethal and non lethal messages
All legal choices, but I heard somewhere that bear spray is not
Anyone know the facts on the spray?
Thanks Lionel :cool:

BajaRat - 9-5-2019 at 07:48 AM

What do you carry JZ ?

SFandH - 9-5-2019 at 08:26 AM

Pepper spray at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/POLICE-MAGNUM-Pepper-Molded-Keychain/...

Think I'll get some. I'm one of those folks that think camping in Baja is getting more dangerous as time goes on.

BajaRat - 9-5-2019 at 09:04 AM

I forgot to mention the most important weapon
Grace, kindness and common sense
Lionel :cool:

John Harper - 9-5-2019 at 09:26 AM

Quote: Originally posted by SFandH  
Pepper spray is a better option for self defense, according to this article:

"Bear spray is typically more expensive than pepper spray, and harder to carry with you at all times because of its size. Pepper spray is small, easy to use, and much stronger.

Your choice is clear: If you are serious about your self defense, buy a proper pepper spray. Leave the bear spray for the bears!"

https://www.selfdefenseninja.com/bear-spray-vs-pepper-spray-...


I always thought bear spray was stronger. I recall reading about some white nationalist protests a couple weeks ago and the cops were looking for dangerous weapons (bats, clubs, chains, guns), including bear spray. Bear spray was specifically mentioned, so I thought it might be classified as more dangerous than regular pepper spray for some reason.

Either way, I would not want a face full of either. Not sure the range of personal pepper spray, but 25 foot range for bear spray might keep some bad hombres a bit further from your "personal space."

John

[Edited on 9-5-2019 by John Harper]

Tioloco - 9-5-2019 at 09:35 AM

I am not discouraging anyone from defending themselves. That said, if you are going to carry pepper spray I would encourage you to Test spray it and see how the spray can be affected by wind and breezes. Also a good idea to experience the results of being sprayed. Will make you much more respectful of the potential to spray and incapacitate yourself.

chuckie - 9-5-2019 at 10:14 AM

This has been talked to death... The only law that counts in Mexico is what the cop with badge and guns says it is....

motoged - 9-5-2019 at 12:01 PM

Americans and their gun obsession....:rolleyes:

How effed up is that???

John Wayne mentality and hollywood courage.....

How is that mass-shooting thing working for you cowboys ?

Idle BSing.....

JZ - 9-5-2019 at 12:28 PM

Quote: Originally posted by BajaRat  
What do you carry JZ ?


I travel with armed MX nationals.

motoged - 9-5-2019 at 12:36 PM

Quote: Originally posted by JZ  
Quote: Originally posted by BajaRat  
What do you carry JZ ?


I travel with armed MX nationals.



Hired mercenary??? Now that's a holiday....

bajaric - 9-5-2019 at 12:43 PM

That is a loaded question.

Loaded, get it? :lol:

[Edited on 9-5-2019 by bajaric]

mtgoat666 - 9-5-2019 at 12:45 PM

Quote: Originally posted by motoged  
Quote: Originally posted by JZ  
Quote: Originally posted by BajaRat  
What do you carry JZ ?


I travel with armed MX nationals.



Hired mercenary??? Now that's a holiday....


More like Thugs or mor0ns.

LancairDriver - 9-5-2019 at 01:57 PM

Is the Goat suggesting GED as a bodyguard for JZ?:lol:

motoged - 9-5-2019 at 01:59 PM

Quote: Originally posted by LancairDriver  
Is the Goat suggesting GED as a bodyguard for JZ?:lol:


Pilot Boy,
No....but gunguys like you might fit the role....:rolleyes:

Tioloco - 9-5-2019 at 02:06 PM

Ged, I hate to point out the obvious. If it wasn't for gun-obsessed Americans, you Canadians would be speaking Russian instead of French.
:-)

You are welcome ;D

[Edited on 9-5-2019 by Tioloco]

John Harper - 9-5-2019 at 02:33 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Tioloco  
Ged, I hate to point out the obvious. If it wasn't for gun-obsessed Americans, you Canadians would be speaking Russian instead of French.
:-)

You are welcome ;D


Actually, Canada was involved in WW2 well before the US. My friend's dad (US citizen) flew for the RCAF in the Battle of Britain. I would not question the bravery of Canadians.

John

[Edited on 9-5-2019 by John Harper]

AKgringo - 9-5-2019 at 02:44 PM

Quote: Originally posted by motoged  
Americans and their gun obsession....:rolleyes:

How effed up is that???

John Wayne mentality and hollywood courage.....

How is that mass-shooting thing working for you cowboys ?



But Ged, what choice do we have? Pipe bombs and hand grenades are illegal! :(

chuckie - 9-5-2019 at 02:51 PM

It is really hard for GED to see things clearly, peering out through his belly button as he must, having been born with his head up his ass....

Tioloco - 9-5-2019 at 03:12 PM

John, I am not questioning the bravery of Canadians. I am pointing out the obvious inability to protect themselves from adversaries without the USA and our gun/defense obsession. I have several Canadian friends. Nothing personal.
Back to the original post- I truly wish I was able to legally carry firearms while in Mexico. But the law is the law. Carry at your own risk.

motoged - 9-5-2019 at 06:15 PM


Dear Crazy Uncle,
History hasn't really suggested that Russia had/has a plan to invade Canada....they would rather destabilize American politics with a lunatic president in their pocket.

The vast majority of Canadians are English-speaking. Quebec is our francophone province.

Poor attempt at deflecting the issue.....which is the American fabric's relationship with guns....
Quote: Originally posted by Tioloco  
Ged, I hate to point out the obvious. If it wasn't for gun-obsessed Americans, you Canadians would be speaking Russian instead of French.
:-)

You are welcome ;D

[Edited on 9-5-2019 by Tioloco]

Lee - 9-5-2019 at 08:17 PM

Quote: Originally posted by motoged  
Americans and their gun obsession....:rolleyes:

How effed up is that???

John Wayne mentality and hollywood courage.....

How is that mass-shooting thing working for you cowboys ?

Idle BSing.....


Man that's a mouth full.

Surely you don't spite those of us who feel unsafe in the US?

I'm safe enough in Mexico and Canada. US? Not so much.

Don't carry SOB and wouldn't admit to it if I did. Carry with backup NOB. Old habits are hard to break, eh?

BajaMama - 9-6-2019 at 12:36 PM

Bring a gun into Mesico? No. Final answer. I do keep a very large metal flashlight within reach when I drive, and wasp spray. I only do so because I often drive solo and I am an older single woman.

paranewbi - 9-6-2019 at 02:14 PM

Quote: Originally posted by BajaMama  
Bring a gun into Mesico? No. Final answer. I do keep a very large metal flashlight within reach when I drive, and wasp spray. I only do so because I often drive solo and I am an older single woman.


I'm married to an older single woman. pee her off and you don't want a large metal flashlight in her hands :wow:

I like my rifle; best thing to beat the heck out of someone with.

Shot my 36", 3 banded speargun through a wood fence from 30 feet away once just to see what it would do above water. Found out I would never want to tangle with someone with that in their hands.

John Harper - 9-6-2019 at 05:40 PM

Quote: Originally posted by paranewbi  
Shot my 36", 3 banded speargun through a wood fence from 30 feet away once just to see what it would do above water. Found out I would never want to tangle with someone with that in their hands.


Ask Vargas, 007 stuck him to a palm tree.

John

[Edited on 9-7-2019 by John Harper]

chuckie - 9-7-2019 at 06:39 AM

The one that decries global warming and rising oceans?????????

advrider - 9-7-2019 at 07:24 AM

Is pepper spray legal to have in Baja? It is very effective and will leave someone out of service for near an hour or more. If said person has a gun they could still be a problem if they just start shooting, think spray and move..I've used mace and OC spray on dozens of people and only had two people that weren't completely incapacitated by it. I've been exposed several times and it is a burning hell!I would think that bear spray would be just as good but I've never used it. How would one find out if it is legal to have?

larryC - 9-7-2019 at 08:44 AM

I have traveled with a gun in Baja. Back in 75 I was on a trip to BoLA with 5 or 6 other firefighters we were camped south of town and had towed some boats down there. We were sitting around camp one day and I was doing a little shooting with a 22 pistol that I had brought down. The next day I took the boat out across the bay to do some diving and when I got back to camp the guys told me the federales had come into camp with their M-16s and wanted to know who had the gun. I guess they looked in my truck and found the gun on the front seat and told the guys that if I had a permit for the gun that I could come in to town and get it back. A couple days later we packed up and drove into town and I stopped at Diaz's gas place and talked to Petricio and told him what had happened and he suggested that I go talk to the Delagada, who at that time was Guiermos mother Socoro (sp?) so I did, and she told me to wait there and she would return in a little bit. As I waited I thought how stupid am I being risking incarceration for a relatively cheap 22 pistol. Any way she came back and to my surprise she had my pistol with her. I was really surprised and asked her if there was anything I could do to repay her and she answered that maybe I could make a donation to the LA bay school. I answered that I would love to make a donation, she suggested $20 and I thought that was great and we parted both happy. That was one of my luckier days and my last trip with a gun in Baja.

bajamedic - 9-7-2019 at 09:12 AM

Quote: Originally posted by advrider  
Is pepper spray legal to have in Baja? It is very effective and will leave someone out of service for near an hour or more. If said person has a gun they could still be a problem if they just start shooting, think spray and move..I've used mace and OC spray on dozens of people and only had two people that weren't completely incapacitated by it. I've been exposed several times and it is a burning hell!I would think that bear spray would be just as good but I've never used it. How would one find out if it is legal to have?


I carry can of Pepper Spray in the Drivers Side Door, in an open compartment. At one of the Military Check Points, I had one of the Military Guys hold it up and ask the guy holding the Machine Gun "Salsa?", he nodded yes and the guy placed it back in the position found and smiled as he said we were good to go. But this is Mexico, so who knows. JH

advrider - 9-7-2019 at 09:53 AM

bajamedic, that's the thing with baja, one time it's all good and the next your up a creek! I know wasp spray isn't as good but I wont be going to jail for it, and it packs some pressure and will burn but not like pepper spray. I would like to find something I could print out that said it was legal?

John Harper - 9-7-2019 at 10:47 AM

Quote: Originally posted by chuckie  
The one that decries global warming and rising oceans?????????


I'm pretty sure it was, it was above sea level.

John