Yes, that’s a “tell” that someone isn’t used to carrying a gun. I think the important thing to take into consideration is what did your gut tell you was going down? Was there any other indication of hostile intent outside of a somewhat standoffish attitude?
If the guy was knew to carrying he probably unconsciously touched his weapon every couple minutes. If he hadn’t inadvertently exposed the holster you should have made a mental note that he was ljkely armed.
What was his posture like during the encounter? Did he assume an “interview stance”? Step back and open a reactionary distance? Is it possible he recognized that you were armed? A telltale print on your clothing?
This happened almost 7 hours ago so I'm sure that my own perceptions have colored my memory.
I never got any sense of "Hostile Intent". I got "I don't want to talk to you, leave me alone."
Guy 1 was at the bottom of the stairs Guy 2 (The one with the holster) was on top of the stairs.
I saw the holster quick. Thats what got my attention on Guy 2. As soon as I saw it he had my full attention. I'm sure
my body language and stance changed. They may have picked up on that.
I got the impression that Guy 2 was stepping back in something like an interview stance
except that he was left-handed (judging by where the holster was) and his left side was towards me. I don't know if either one of them had any idea that I was armed. They didn't do anything that gave me the impression that they thought I might be armed
Guy 1 listened to me and thanked me for my input but
everything in his demeanor and body language was saying "I really don't want to talk to you."
As I mentioned previously, I have no intention of trying to interact with them again beyond the most basic common courtesies.