I own weapons, but since my daughter started having friends over to the house, I have not stored one in my own home. My favorite is my 9mm because I can handle it without thinking (years of using it 24/7). I agree with everything you wrote. I will always own a gun or another self-protection device (tazer). I am in a situation where the possibility exists that I may run into someone I met under unusual circumstances years ago. People migrate to the U.S. everyday and I have run into one already. Whether or not my daughter ever owns a gun on her own when she is over 21 (the law), I will make sure she knows how to handle one and to respect it. Just like self-defense, hurricanes, tornados, rock climbing, and yes, even swimming (something we love to do) - I believe you should always be prepared for anything and hope you never need to use it.



>We own a gun. Believe me, it was a sad and discouraging process to go through. But one we talked about it and agreed to do it.
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>I don't know how anyone can make a general statement that using one will increase the odds of a robber opening fire. Yes, I can see that happening - I can also see it preventing me from losing someone. Any of a dozen or more scenarios are possible.
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>I certainly respect your decision not to own one and I understand your reasons. It's a decision that each family has to make. If a child can somehow get access to a gun, clearly the family has not taken all of the precautions.
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>I'm in favor of laws, background checks, etc. But I also believe that people have the right to defend themselves. I wish we didn't feel we have to own one, and I hope we'll never have to use it.
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>Kevin