Why do people say that owning a gun is a good thing?

Answer 1

Firearms are specialized tools that can be very useful when applied correctly and in appropriate circumstances. Like other tools they can be dangerous, or even deadly, in the hands of an irresponsible user, but this does not negate their utility.

For many people shooting is a relaxing hobby. This is especially true of shotgun sports like trap and skeet and of various types of bullseye shooting. Shooting can be competitive, but it also can be a way to compete with oneself, much like Golf. Hobbies are important to people because they provide a way to take their minds off work and the daily hassles.

Firearms are also defensive tools. A firearm is very good to have when you are faced with a bear that decided to raid your garbage can, a coyote that is looking to make your chihuahua his lunch, or even your neighbor's pitbull which got loose and thinks your hand is a dandy chew toy. Firearms are also eminently useful against other humans intent on doing you harm. This does not mean that every defensive gun use results in death. Often, a mere sight of a gun is enough for an attacker to reconsider his plans and go the other way without a shot fired.

A firearm allows you to defend yourself immediately and effectively. As the saying goes, when seconds count police are minutes away. Having a firearm allows you to take responsibility for your defense rather than laying it on someone else. This may not seem like a big deal in daily life, but can become a lot more important in extraordinary circumstances like a natural disaster or a major social upheaval. Examples of this can be found in the LA riots of 1992 and Hurricane Katrina.

Firearms can also be used for hunting. The most obvious benefit of hunting is fresh meat on your table.