Most people don't brandish weapons with the intent to use it. They brandish for intimidation because they're too much of a bitch to actually use it. I've never been in a fight, I've never owned a weapon (unless paintball guns and pocket knives count), and neither has any of my family but even I know not to do, say, or show something unless you're willing to see it through.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/law-and-order/5698062/Burglar-left-bruised-and-bleeding-by-retired-boxer-72.html