The Positive Impacts of Law-Abiding Citizens Owning Firearms

For decades, the place of firearms in the United States has been a point of contention. Many people across the country have argued on the specific type of firearm, while others have questioned the necessity of citizens owning firearms entirely. Negative headlines have captured the attention of Americans and consequently overshadowed responsible gun owners. While it is true that some have exploited the right to purchase and own firearms, there are countless benefits to responsible everyday citizens owning firearms in this country. Read on to learn more about the positive impacts that legally owning a firearm can have.

Responsibilities of Citizens Owning Firearms

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution is a fundamental part of American society. It grants the right of every citizen in this country to keep and bear arms. Many citizens across the U.S. choose to exercise this right by legally owning a firearm. As a responsible citizen or for those aiming to be an ambassador for citizens owning firearms, it is important to understand the rights and duties that come with being a gun owner. This could include a myriad of responsibilities, from knowing your laws to practicing safety and training at a shooting range. Having more awareness will not only help you, but the people around you.

• Know Your Local, State, and Federal Laws: Ignorance of the law is no excuse. It is of the utmost importance to learn about firearms laws, including those about open carry and concealed carry in your area. You don’t want to end up accidentally breaking a law!
• Participate in Maintenance of Your Firearm: Maintenance is one of the basics of gun safety. Ensure that you take the steps to keep your firearm in serviceable condition. Make sure you know how to safely clean with proper cleaning tools for your firearm such as a cleaning solvent. Also be sure of proper assembly and disassembly.
• Engage in Firearm Training: Firearm training is great for ensuring safety and in the assistance in honing your skills with your firearm. Training helps you keep basic gun safety rules at the front of your mind.
• Secure Your Firearm: Firearms should be kept clean and locked. Perhaps most importantly, they should be stored appropriately in a gun safe or gun rack – keeping them out of the reach of children and those that are not equipped with firearm safety training. For those in a concealed carry state, firearms should be secured properly in a holster.
• Educate Your Household: Everyone in your household should know about firearm safety. Adults should be aware of how to handle the firearm with safety and care.

How Citizens Owning Firearms Contribute to a Safer Society

Despite polarized debates over gun policies, society benefits as a whole when citizens own firearms. The positive impacts of firearms are severely underestimated by many in the country. Just how much of an impact does owning a firearm have?

• Protects Against Crime

Owning a firearm is one of the best mechanisms of self-defense and the protection of others. According to a survey from Pew Research, two-thirds of gun owners say that protection is the number one reason they own a gun. A criminal is much less likely to commit a crime if they are in the presence of a firearm. Gun owners have the ability to protect themselves and others to prevent crime from happening. A firearm in the hands of a trained, law-abiding gun owner is an equalizer.

• Helpful in Areas with Limited Access to Law Enforcement Services

Many Americans live in rural areas with limited access to law enforcement services. Services like the sheriff’s department may be understaffed and overwhelmed. In addition, a call for assistance could take more time than you have to spare against threats. Access to a firearm can be crucial in helping protect your family, pets, livestock, and community.

• Protects Against Animal Threats

Animal predators are a threat to those in many areas across the country. Wild animals like coyotes, wolves, and bears pose a serious threat to individuals and their families. Attacks and diseases such as rabies are legitimate concerns. Animal control may not always be available to help in time. Firearms give a way for citizens to protect their families, pets, and neighbors from wildlife threats. It is always better to be prepared, which can be helpful at home, camping, or in other areas close to wildlife.

Citizens Owning Firearms: Exercise Your Rights

Americans have the right to keep and bear arms, as granted by our Second Amendment rights. It is a right that is exercised by many Americans today, often as a means of self-defense. Though policies regarding the possession of firearms are widely debated within the United States, the mistreatment of firearms by some in the country should not eclipse the numerous positive impacts of citizens owning firearms. Many responsible, law-abiding owners of firearms are well-versed in the use and safety of their firearms. By staying informed about the laws, safety, and use of a firearm, society can reap the benefits that its citizens owning firearms brings.