Why do so many people in the US own guns?

Guns were primarily created for the sole purpose of using them as a weapon of defense. As time passed by, people started using guns for sports or for hobbies. It was created with safety in mind, but nowadays a lot of people have abused guns and started to use them for violent crimes.

With the number of gun violence incidents increasing, debates have started to rise between gun control activists and gun enthusiasts.

The “Right to Bear Arms” is the 2nd Amendment of the United States Constitution, which became a law collectively with the other 9 amendments, composing the Bill of Rights. The commandment it holds states that “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” proclaiming the militias to recognize completely citizens’ rights. While there are benefits to it, there are also drawbacks.

There are a lot of reasons to own a gun but there are also equal reasons not to.

Starting with the PROS:

1. PROTECTION

For many gun owners, it’s a simple thought: having a gun gives them at least a fighting chance in the event of coming in contact with a burglar or home invaders. As mentioned above, the primary reason guns were created was merely for defense or protection. You’ll never know when someone or something may pose as an immediate threat to you or your loved ones and it’s always good to have that sense of security, knowing you can protect your cherished ones anywhere and at anytime. With that being said, yes, you can carry your firearms with you but just make sure you have the proper documents and license to carry a gun if required.

2. CRIME PREVENTION

In this world that we live today crime and violence are everywhere. You can always be the next target of a criminal act. When seconds count, you simply can’t count on 911 to keep you safe. Law enforcement does not have a legal obligation to protect you from criminals. When you have a gun the attackers will hesitate to choose you as their next victim. In most cases having a gun is getting you a step ahead of the game in crime prevention. Criminals don’t like finding themselves on the business end of a gun any more than the rest of us do. In other words, just the fear of being shot is often enough to dissuade criminals from targeting you. Don’t be the next victim. A common refrain touted by gun rights advocates, “the only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.”

Now, moving on to the CONS:

1. CAN BE DIFFICULT TO TRAVEL ACROSS STATE LINES

Ironic as it sounds, when you’re supposed to be comfortable having a gun because you’re protected, it can also be a pain in the butt. Having a gun comes with great responsibilities. In the U.S. different states have different laws for carrying guns. When you’re traveling from one state to another it is your responsibility to know the policies and laws of the state when it comes to firearms. Flying with firearms is another thing. You have to deal with the airline, airport, and TSA policies for the safety of traveling with your firearms.

2. YOU CAN BE ASKED TO LEAVE ESTABLISHMENTS

Unfortunately, guns can’t discriminate between criminals and innocent bystanders. Establishments are public places that are visited by many people every day. When you enter an establishment such as a store, mall, or a restaurant caring a sidearm, people might feel uncomfortable and unsafe. Thus you can’t do anything about it, when personnel asks you to leave you have to leave.

3. PERCEPTIONS

With all the gun violence and crimes involving firearms today, it is inevitable that seeing a person with a gun may be perceived as a public threat to safety. Yes, it may sound discriminatory, but that is reality and the stereotype for most civilians with guns.

In some situations, carrying a gun with you may pose a threat to yourself because of wrong perception from other people. An example; when you get pulled over it is best to let the officer know that you are carrying a gun. In other cases you may offer to let them take temporary custody of your firearms until the situation is resolved. That way you will not be perceived as a threat.

The Right to Bear Arms has become a controversial section under the Bill of Rights. The Second Amendment’s guarantee to the right to bear arms is limited. There are lots of federal laws that prohibit the ownership of guns and other firearms. The concerns about this amendment under the Bill of Rights greatly contradict several federal laws which continue to be a controversial issue. Since the beliefs of one individual to another is different we have to understand why some of us desire to carry weapons while others do not. Whether you are in favor of carrying weapons or not you should determine its influence on your society.

You should know that obtaining a firearm legally conveys a personal thought of both defending and protecting yourself, keeping you safe from offensive attacks. Remember that self-protection is the basic unit of national protection, but even though you are enjoying this right abuse unfortunately happens. Thus, a sense of responsibly obeying underlying rules that makes up this law and a measure of self-control must always be exercised.

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Reference:https://youtu.be/Itq1YgsGfT4