Texas is one of the few states in the U. S. that have an outright ban on the open carry of handguns, but that could change in 2015 as the Republican-dominated Legislature and Gov.-elect Greg Abbott are in favor of expanded gun rights.

Texas, which allows concealed handguns, banned open carry of handguns around one and a half century ago. But, Abbott hinted the day after the announcement of his election result last month that he could put an end to that ban.

He said if open carry was good enough for Massachusetts and other states; it would also be good for the state of Texas.

Open carry drew significant backing from voters in this year's elections. Around six relevant bills have already been filed by legislators for the upcoming session, and Abbott has already promised that he would sign one of them into law if sent to his desk.

Coni Ross, a Blanco-based 63-year-old rancher, said he had to carry a handgun in a purse for personal protection. She stressed that she would like the option to carry the firearm openly on her belt if she was allowed.

Supporting open carry of handguns, she said, "In one-and-a-half seconds, a man can run 25 feet with a knife in his hands and stab you before you get your gun out. If your weapon is concealed you're dead."

Most of the U. S. states already allow some form of open carry of handguns. Only Texas, California, Florida, Illinois, New York and South Carolina do not allow open carry of handguns.