I don't think he said he pulled a gun on him, but rather just made the gun visible.

Bingo. I never pointed it anywhere near him, just made it known that I'd protect myself should the need arise. As to whether it would or wouldn't stop someone trying to harm me, I think in fact that it certainly would. It would me if I were going to try something. Ever wonder why there are so many crimes against women and the elderly? It's because criminals go for targets that are least likely to show resistance. If you WERE the nefarious type, who would YOU go after? Someone that looks frail or a biker type with a .45 hanging on his belt?