Theory of a Grey Man
A Defender Among UsVictima TuusWelcome to my interpretation of the lifestyle.
Through the entirety of this dissertation we’ll be discussing multiple and varying aspects of “the grey (wo)man.” We’ll cover the key curiosities of the topic, such as: What, Who, When, Why, How, and Where in regards to the concept and it’s practice. Grab a beverage, pen and paper, and an open mind. Cheers!
WHAT is a grey man?
Firstly, the ever-perplexing question of “what is a grey man?” A grey man is someone who intends, and prefers, to blend in with their daily surroundings. This will pertain to casual, non-threatening, or signaling attire. Along with an easy-going and nonchalant demeanor are key. Not to mention, tuning and honing your vigilance is paramount. Whether that be at the grocery store, mall, realm of career, and equally, general community.
This person wishes to conceal and suppress an obvious cue that he or she is carrying not only survival skills and equipment, but the mindset to protect and preserve themselves, as well as loved ones. This person doesn’t chose to be inconspicuous based on shady intentions or ill-will. However, quite the opposite in their preparedness of self-sufficiency. We are all our own first responders. Through the subtle and passive art of retaining the element of surprise. The grey man’s objective is to uphold the pillar of innocence. Nonetheless, to also ensure to safety of innocents.
Ideally, this is a passive security. A timid defense. At least, in the case of the overwhelming majority of grey men, action isn’t ever necessary. That’s to be held dear as we hold ourselves accountable. Accountable for training beyond competence and adopting the entire lifestyle with warm embrace.
An altercation, or God forbid, deployment of one’s firearm is the last resort and should be avoided if at all possible. A fight avoided is a fight won. In contract, if the occasion presents itself leaving the grey man with no other option than cunning and/or violence of action, so be it. This is a toll the grey man is mentally acquainted with and willing to meet the terms of this responsibility and recourse.
WHO is a grey man?
Who is a grey man? Anyone can be a grey man. Anyone that has the concern for defense and self-reliance. This person may have the fiery refusal to becoming a victim. Or allowing it to happen to others. In my opinion. of course, said grey man should have the discipline to train with a firearm. Through whichever means possible. Whether it be dry-fire practice at home, or as-frequent-as-possible range time. Dry fire is an invaluable tool for enhancing your skill and proficiency with a firearm. Especially, given the current climate of ammo prices and availability(or lack thereof) while I’m writing this.
WHEN to be a grey man?
Oh dear, the controversial point of “when” to be a grey man. My polite and respectful advice says ALWAYS. Always, always, always! Regardless if you’re just going to cruise down to the corner store for a soda, run across the street to check your mail, or head over to an eye appointment. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
In all honesty, is ALWAYS realistic? Is ALWAYS even possible? Admittedly, no, it isn’t. But I’ll be damned if that isn’t my compelling standard. That’s the daily, undying goal. As often as possible. If we aim for always, which we may likely fall short of for whatever given excuses/explanations, at least we’ll land on ‘most often’. And that right there is ideal.
WHY be a grey man?
As mentioned in our address to “who” is a grey man, let’s reiterate and stress the fiery refusal to becoming a victim. I have self respect. It may be a fluctuating and debatable level of self respect, but it’s existence is real and significant to me, most importantly. Not only to me but also to my loved ones -dear family members and friends. (I think my dogs likes me quite a bit too.) And I feel an obligation to remain present in their lives.
Let alone, a sample size of one (me) that refutes the idea of contributing to criminal homicide rate statistics. Objectively, and subjectively, I will admit that may influenced by pride and burning desire to not only survive but thrive. I value life. I have every intention of dying from natural causes at an old age. Or maybe some epic, wild adventure during something fun like skydiving or cliff jumping. Regardless, you get the point. It’s my life to stamp, not some bozo with a chip on their shoulder against society or a drive of desperation and malice.
In addition to my determination for staying alive, a grey man also chooses this lifestyle as a precaution. Because this individual is aware of the unfortunate presence of evil, the grey man decides to be prepared by taking the precautions of carrying tools and a mindset against that evil.
Similarly, take the use of a seat belt in a car, or its airbags. Your average citizen doesn’t buckle up because they intend to use it. Or that they have any idea that today may be the day they’re glad to have been wearing it. As in a conventional car collision, it happens with little warning, if any. You’ll barely have ample time to recognize the impending doom, let alone have the opportunity to fasten your seat belt during the time frame between noticing it and it finally happening. That seatbelt better have already been fastened or it won’t be at all. And with this analogy, I stress the importance of the mindset to be a routine practice and discipline.
HOW to be a grey man?
How do we practice being grey? One key component is simply blending in. Remaining as inconspicuous as possible. The subtle art of retaining vigilance and capability while refraining from highlighting yourself. I don’t mean “simply” as in that its an easy or elementary objective. Because there is a dynamic to it. There are levels to developing it as a skill. Learning how to keep an eye on your surroundings while looking like you’re grossly engrossed in your phone. The most obvious thing to attract attention or intention is your choice of clothing. Take this copperhead, for example. (Shown above.) And yes, there IS a copperhead in that photo. Its choice of attire is nearly perfectly suited for its environment. However, if you dropped that snake on a sidewalk, it would be exposed plain as day.
So, I recommend wearing clothes that suit the average outfit for your scenery. Casual clothes such as a non-affiliated hoody and some blue jeans. Maybe a basic button up with some khakis and nice sneakers. NOT Under Armor combat boots with the hems of 16-pocket multicam pants tucked into them while sporting the cherry-on-top of a Sig Elite sweater. You also might consider not wearing cowboy boots while walking in Times Square, God forbid you’re ever in New York. Point made and pulped.
The concept isn’t merely clothing, though. This theory also requires your behavior and attitude. Being cognizant of not adjusting that holster over and over again. Certainly not without the attempt of making it look like a natural movement. There, that’s the key right there! Act natural.
In addition to this “HOW”, let’s address the defensive aspect. As in a defensive instrument of your choosing. And the options stretch wide. Handgun, knife, soft armor, tasers, mace/OC spray. Potentially, even more so, and substantially more useful and highly recommended hand to hand skills. Such as: maui thai, judo, wrestling, or jiu jistu (which ironically translates to “the art of yielding.”)
I, personally, have a novice level of jiu jitsu experience which has paid dividends in my approach to interacting with potential combatives. Also, I carry a handgun and fixed blade knife. I carry a compact size semi-automatic in an appendix carry holster with an extra mag. (Detailed in our Youtube videos) If you’re going to carry a gun, which I advocate, I recommend a carrying the largest gun you can comfortably wear without printing. Printing means the outline of your gun is obvious and visible to anybody who may examine your waistline; or ankle or armpit, if you chose to practice with that carry style. That’s the beautiful balancing act of capacity, comfort, and concealment.
WHERE to be a grey man?
Over here? Over there? If there isn’t a metal detector, I carry everywhere. My sidearm is an extension of my body at this point my lifestyle. I go nowhere without being armed. Like its gospel. I grab my gun just like I grab my keys, phone, wallet, and shoes.
Referring back to the seatbelt analogy, you never know when the misfortune may knock on your door. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Of course, I’m aware the mathematical odds of me ever deploying my carry gun are slim. But they certainly aren’t ZERO. And being as that I’m allergic to bee sting venom, I’m potentially more likely to die from anaphylactic shock without an epi pen than I am to die from not having my gun with me. I consider it 6 months out of the year. The other 6 months are winter here in North Dakota and bees don’t exist during our ice age, so I don’t sweat it. (ba-dum-tss)
Furthermore, pressing on, the question to pose is how comfortable and competent are you with carrying a defensive instrument? Ask yourself what is the purpose. What’s the yield? What’s the cost? That’s only for you to weigh and wager. Practice regularly. Strive for always. In the realistic outcome, you’ll fall short of “always” and hopefully land on “most often” which I would consider ideal. And that is fact of the matter. As often (always) and prevalent (everywhere) as possible. Godspeed.
