Real Danger.

[FAS1]

I understand your point. that being said, is there any reason why you don't feel comfortable having a handgun out of the gunvault when the grandkids aren't visiting? //example: knowing they are coming tomorrow so locking it up at bedtime(I'm guessing the vault is in master bedroom)

My kids are grown and gone but I have friends and family with kids that can stop by anytime. My dedicated HD gun is always in my handgun safe mounted to my bed frame. I never have to think where it is when pest control, cleaning service, or someone else comes over. Chances are, if I need a gun at home it will be in the middle of the night.

Plus, I always pocket carry a P3AT around the house so I don't feel the need to have any guns laying around or accessible to anyone. Like Vito said, it only takes once for your life (and others) to change.

 

[Sparks1957]

It's a different culture but the root isn't fear, it's self reliance

That's my attitude about guns. I don't want to have to depend on others for protection, any more than I would want to be totally dependent on others for food or other necessities.

If I need to, I can go and hunt for dinner. I can stay warm with my woodstove, and I can protect myself if my family or I am threatened.

It's a deeply held part of our culture for most native Vermonters.

 

[MLeake]

I started carrying several years ago because I came to the conclusion that a right, not exercised, will not remain a right for long.

Supporting that conclusion, look at the political impact the fact of over 8 million concealed permit holders has had on recent gun debates.

Of course, the fact that family members and friends had used firearms in self defense also had some influence on my decision.

Self-reliance was what made our country great. Reliance on the nanny state by so many is what is now weakening us.

 

[youngunz4life]

it is a blessing more and more americans are 'getting it' and exercising their right to carry (and take the responsibility to be ready to defend themselves and their family in some form or another).

 

[K_Mac]

The police have information on every individual in N Ireland. Intelligence on who is in the groups from informers and other sources is used when someone applies for a firearms certificate. Some will get trough but very few.

And that Manta is a frightening thought to most Americans. The implication is that the government will use this information in the best interest of all its people. I love my country and our system of government, BUT any government, by its nature, can and will abuse its power unless it has to answer to those it would control. Our founding fathers knew this only too well. It is the reason our Second Amendment is foundational to our way of life. When I say we take our right to keep and bear arms seriously it is not just talk. It is a part of who we are.

Yes, some may get a little over the top in their attempt to protect against all threats, real and imagined. Within the confines of the law, so what? Over the top is also a very American thing.