Absolutely agree with JJHACK. Nicely said.
There's basically 4 conditions.
Adequately armed, mentally ready enough to take useful action.
Empty handed and scared smart.
Empty handed and clueless.
Armed but lulled by a false sense of security.
I prefer the first, I can get by with the second, I want no part of the last two. There is no replacement for having your wits about you, being observant, and making smart choices.
Tom