Back in the late 80s,( long before cell phones and concealed carry permits ) I had a similar incident like the original post that involved 5 rednecks in a pickup. I had taken a right instead of a left after pulling off the highway and fueling up in Albuquerque.
If I hadn't pulled my Rem. Rand ( cocked and locked and thumb on the safety ) I believe that my first wife and I would not be here today to tell you about it.
Sometimes pulling out a firearm will keep you from having to shoot someone.

SSB. AKA TTM.