You notice because you carry (Like I also notice the bulge on many who conceal carry).
Maine is a constitutional carry state meaning no permit to open or conceal carry. I figure a mad gunman would target those he sees carrying, which should give me time to shoot back or find cover, if time permits. The perfect scenario is find cover first, then shoot back if necessary. Or get out of dodge completely (Shooter has a semiauto-rifle whereas I have a .380 pocket gun that day).
I would open carry in the range parking lot or at a Second Amendment rally. Otherwise, I strongly prefer concealed carry. I appreciate those who choose to open carry for potentially opening minds to the realities of gun ownership - that normal people carry and are not in any way dangerous to the community. But to me, it isn’t worth the risk of freaking out some snowflake in the grocery store - even here in suburban Arizona.
Although open carry is legal here (KY), the only places I open carry are at the range, and when walking the dog at night. Whenever I venture elsewhere for errands (stores), it’s CC, because those particular stores (Walmart, Kroger) do not permit open carry, although I have seen on occasion some who push the envelope and open carry in those places anyway.
I notice because I carry, but others do not care, are in condition white, or simply due to the state and area, it is more common and less of an issue.
A well placed shot from a .380 can stop a bad guy with a semi auto rifle. If all else fails, remember you can use your seat cushion as a floatation device.
I prefer concealed as the less folks around me know I have a gun the better. I once stood in line at a Walgreen’s carrying concealed with a gun standing in front of me open carrying. I noticed all eyes were on him, not me as no one I was also armed.
I mostly open carry as do a lot of others around here