The Responsibility Project^®. Exploring what it means to do the right thing

Friday Feb 10

Mothers In Arms

July 29, 2008 by Kathy McManus

Moms pack many things-endless lunches, bottles, diapers, snacks, toys, wipes, overdue library books, and of course kids.

But does a responsible mom also pack a gun?

The question was recently raised on the website BabyCenter, which chronicles all things motherhood, from conception to inconceivably picky eaters and back-talking three year olds.

On the site, a mom blogger described the terrifying experience of a mother who was attacked at home in a safe neighborhood by a rapist with a gun. The woman fought, the attacker fled, and the blogger posed a question: “Do you think that every mother should own a gun?”

The point-blank debate about point-blank defense revealed that some moms are packing heat.

“I carry a Keltec 380 (small pistol) on my hip everyday,” revealed a mother of a one year old and a two year old. “I feel comfortable knowing that I will be able to defend my kids and I if we are in a life-threatening situation.”

Another mother—eight months pregnant and with a toddler—wrote that her husband works the night shift, and “our gun is the only way I could defend myself and my children should someone intend to do us harm.”

And there was this disclosure from a police officer mom: “I keep a loaded 9mm in my Coach diaper bag.”

Suddenly, it seems, mothers with guns are everywhere--movie star moms included. Recent news reports quote actress Angelina Jolie as saying she keeps a gun at home for security, and that “if anybody comes into my home and tries to hurt my kids, I've no problem shooting them.”

Tell us what you think: Should a mother’s responsibility to protect her children include having a gun?

Share this short URL /// http://sharerp.com/2m

Post Tweet Email

744 Comments

What do you think? Leave a comment

July 29, 2008 by tim smith

People should not have to carry guns to protect themselves. What has become of this world when the emphasis to kill has a greater priority than anything else?

Reply
- July 29, 2008 by Dave Washburn
  
  You're right. People shouldn't have to carry guns to protect themselves. However, criminals don't follow rules. As the father of a 2-year old, I find myself struggling with the decision of whether or not to purchase a gun for defense. I've run through scenarios in my mind, lying in bed at night, of how I would react to a home invader with and without a gun. Right now, I have a metal bar under my bed for defense. While I can certainly do some damage with it, it is of little use against a gun. Sure, the chances of being the victim of a home invasion are low, but it happens, and while my odds at large are low, they're the same as the guy who lives next to me. I also find it interesting that you read the article and see an emphasis on killing rather than protecting.
  
  Reply
  - May 12, 2009 by Guns
    
    A metal bar would do little against an intruder with a gun and or on meth. That's if you hear the intruder in time. It happens more often then you think. Is your house dark? Lights out? Can you swing a bar in the dark? A hand gun with a flashlight and laser site combo will take care of all 3 for you very well. You can get a finger print reading safe (biometrics) that pops open in a second with the touch of a finger and will keep your loaded gun safe the rest of the time. I don't have kids, but I am married. I keep a loaded firearm by my bed at all times. I also have a concealed carry license and carry my firearm on me every place I go. I was mugged in a car wash at knife point years ago before I carried a gun. I'm a black belt in martial arts, but there is little you can do against five guys with knives even if you have a gun. Luckily it ended well. But it doesn't always. You have to be prepared. You only have one life. And if you have a family and kids you are responsible for protecting them also. Teach them about guns early on. Take away the mystery of a gun. Keep it locked in a quick access safe and just use your head. Join a local shooting range, and get training in home gun defense shooting. Although firearms CAN and DO prevent crime and murders, NOTHING is a substitute for COMMON SENSE SAFETY: home alarms close and lock doors and windows. Don't leave your kids unattended, etc. Common sense, training, and a good firearm with flashlight and laser site combo should serve you well. Stay safe!
  - June 18, 2009 by RON MCCUBBIN
    
    Get your head out of the sand. What are you going to protect with?
  - February 8, 2010 by John Robertson
    
    It was no brainer for me. I now have a little girl and if some bad guy wants to harm me or my family I will gladly rid the world of one less bad guy. I see a concealed firearm as an emergency defensive tool. It is not plan A, or B, It is plan G. When all else fails or no other options are open to you. You save yourself and your family. That is what the 2nd ammendment was intended for.
  - February 8, 2010 by John Robertson
    
    Wow, you are very misinformed. I hope your never in a position where you would need a firearm, because when that day comes it is too late change your mind.
  - July 2, 2010 by loren
    
    common sence tells me it would be better to have a gun & not need it, rather than need it & not have it.
  - October 26, 2010 by Salamatin
    
    Please protect your family with a fire arm, or God forbid should some one breaks in your home, you can always say STOP I have an Iron bar under my bed.
  - December 28, 2010 by Kim Gamero
    
    It is interesting that the states with the lowest crime per capita are concealed-weapon friendly. My husband was in line at the store and the guy in front of him said he was going back to California because when he tried to mug Grandma, she pulled a .357 mag out of her purse. Criminals don't like the odds in states like Idaho, where one-third of the legal carrying population carries concealed. That includes both my husband and me.
    
    It is imperative that if you are going to carry, you get training, and it cannot be option G, you must be prepared to use the gun. Otherwise you give the bad guy an opportunity to take the gun and use it on you.
    
    If you have kids, show them the gun. Show them how it works. Let them shoot it at the range. Demystify it. Then lock it up. Keep your family safe.
  - January 27, 2011 by Chuck
    
    well, when your wife is being beat, and your daughter is getting raped, its to dame late to think Oh should I have purchased a weapon, or will that steel or wooden bat just come in that handy? I you would be tied up on the floor hearing this go on,
  - March 21, 2011 by joe manno
    
    I have scared off several thugs with my gun. Once they see your armed it's end game with for the cowards. Buy that gun and take a gun safety course and learn to use it.
  - April 15, 2011 by TOM
    
    CRIMINALS SHOULDN'T BE LET OUT OF JAIL EITHER BUT THEY ARE. EVERY RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN SHOULD CARRY A GUN BECAUSE MOST CRIMINALLY MINDED SCUM BAGS ARE AFRAID TO GET SHOT
  - August 23, 2011 by Seamus Casey
    
    To You Dreamers: Evil exists. If you deny this basic fact of modern life, then your worldview is NOT reality-based. We police/first responders have a name for bozos like you: VICTIMS. America is founded upon Liberty--which requires you to be a proactive, responsible CITIZEN. YOU are thus responsible for learning to protect yourself and your family. This requires serious effort, time, capital, et al to purchase a firearm AND to get competent training. This is your DUTY as a FREE man or woman in a free society. All RIGHTS demand concurrent RESPONSIBILITIES to be exercised in accordance with the moral law. We as Americans must re-discover our inherent greatnes and true history--devoid of the liberal-puke, leftists, REVISIONIST's historians agenda being preached on our college campuses. So quit whining, question and challenge every lie the M3 tells you, and learn the rarest of modern skills = it is known as that thing called CRITICAL THINKING. (M3 = Mainstream Media Maggots). So begin learning "to ride, to shoot straight, and to ALWAYS speak the truth..." as was said in our not-so-distant past. Paradise is burning......... so either Step Up, or Shut Up. Stay Safe, Train Hard, seamus out.
  - September 7, 2011 by charlie&janet triplett
    
    yes: please get yourself some sort of protection you need a glock or sig please remember you need some training if you decide on this route be safe and take care of your kids and above all your self chaplin charlie
- February 22, 2009 by paul
  
  There are dangerous animals out there in the 'real world' . I'm unable to physically defend myself and if I'm confronted with a dangerous animal and I can't retreat and feel threatened I WILL SHOOT. I also feel that anyone should be able to carry concealed, anywhere,anytime but should have to go through a safety class an not have to pay the government for a permit for their right. Read the last four words of the 2nd amendment of the us constitution ..."shall not be infringed". This means no one,by law, can leagally keep anyone from possessing a firearm. The Dick Act mandates that we MUST have one. In the early 1930's Hitler had all of his own register their firearms then he sent the SS to collect them thus control of the population and it took many nations (allies) to remove him. That's what's happening today. How are we going to remove the New World Order which is almost in place ESTABLISHED EXACTLY THE SAME WAY AS HITLER ESTABLISHED HIS THIRD RICH.
  
  Reply
  - February 28, 2009 by DJ
    
    I wonder how we will defend ourselves when they take away all the legal guns, will we simply ask the rapist to not bother my wife and daughter? I feel a lot better knowing that my wife can defend herself when I am not around. And how does outlawing my legal gun make a criminal turn in his illegal gun?
- February 23, 2009 by Bryan Ragland
  
  People have the right to protect their own and the right to show them who may cause harm just because they have a gun.
  
  Reply
  - May 2, 2010 by High noon
    
    What are you trying to say?? Your stament is not understandable,
  - January 7, 2011 by scooter
    
    I READ THIS 4 TIMES / AND FINALLY GAVE UP ?????
- February 24, 2009 by Dr. Farney
  
  It seems that you miss the point: give an inch and they take a mile. Gun ownership is our right and not to be taken lightly. I know a huge number of gun owners and sportsmen and women who do not have a gun or guns to kill anyone but for many other reasons including protection. Do not let anyone take any of your current rights away regardless what it may be for you will lose enough even when you fight to keep them.
  
  Reply
  - September 4, 2010 by mark shean
    
    While it is important that we know our rights, and fight anyone in politics trying to infringe on those rights, it is also very important that we talk to our children about their rights under our Constitution. Do not overlook the kids, schools are anti Second Amendment and will not tell your kids about their rights, schools are actually trying to 'redefine' American history to be more to their progressive liking. Tell your kids what the schools will not, or they will lose the rights we enjoy today. Dont Overlook The Kids! www.mafirearmsafety.com
  - March 7, 2011 by chet from oregon
    
    for home defence i always recomend a shotgun with a 18" barrel.unlike handgun rounds the shot wont travel through walls also most badguys know the sound of a round being chamberd into a pump shotgun.i have 2 children at home a 2yr old and a 10yr old they both have handeled the gun empty and seen what it can do the 10yr old has fired my springfield xd 40 many times and even knows how to clean it so i beg you get a firearm to protect your family.u have care incurance incase you need it.Then why not a firearm,i have one with me at all times.
- March 3, 2009 by mike breton
  
  I don't know what perfect world time lives in, but in this messed up country where the police are no help every hard working American should carry and have the right to protect themselves!! I carry a 45 in every vehicle and one on me at all times and the house is full too. Hopefully your family wont have to get on this site and say "We wish he had a Gun" Good luck out there!!
  
  Reply
  - August 23, 2011 by Seamus Casey
    
    Who says the "police are no help" belies your ignorance and TV-trained mind. Police stand guard every night wilst you sleep, and much, much more. How many dedicated LEO's do you know ?? The media maggots hate us and NEVER tell the TRUTH about anything involving Law Enforcement. Civilian ignorance and rabidly anti-police hollywood TV propaganda has "poisoned the well" of public opinion--unjustly in most cases. Get involved with your local police dept volunteer organizations and maybe you'll discover something new-- The TRUTH !!!!!! Wise Up, seamus out.
- March 5, 2009 by Andrew Pates
  
  You Have To Protect Yourself And Family. I Think It Is a Beautiful Thing. Anyone Who Symathizes With a Predator Needs To Get Checked In The Head.
  
  Reply
  - August 24, 2011 by Nountain High Mama
    
    When seconds count, the police are just minutes, or maybe more, away. In the end, you are the one who shoulders the responsibility for your families safety.
- March 7, 2009 by Don Rich
  
  The emphasis is not to kill. It is to protect you and yours.
  
  Reply
  - May 2, 2010 by axel
    
    Yes that is true we need prot. ourself and family.
- March 17, 2009 by John Hansen
  
  If anyone is attacked that attacker plans to do great bodily harm and if they are shot or killed - many others will not be attacked. There is no pie in the sky here - if you are attacked and you can't defend yourself, you will be dead.
  
  Reply
- March 17, 2009 by Heather
  
  Gun ownership has always been the topic of great debate. The emotions associated with this topic are also great. I find it interesting that so many people are quick to offer an opinion and firmly believe their opinion is right. Facts however can't be argued with. So fact; 1 out of 3 women world wide will be the victim of assault in her lifetime. Among female rape victims 61% are under age18. 22% are under the age of 12. A woman is raped every 6 minutes and beaten every 18 seconds. (statistics taken from experienceproject.com) These are the facts. If more people were aware of these facts, I think their opinion of a women needing protection would change. These statistics only continue to increase at an alarming rate. Who protects these girls that fall into the under 18 category, if not their mother. I am a woman who believes in my personal right to bear arms and keep from being one of these statistics, however, I also believe in being responsible. If you are going to own a firearm, know how to use it, know how to clean and keep it in safe working condition. Also, take firearms courses that teach survival tactics. The more you know the more you can help educate the rest of those who don't know these statistics. I recommend B.R.A.T. Training (stands for Be Ready at All Times).
  
  Reply
  - July 5, 2010 by Krissy
    
    Thanks Heather for adding the statistics......I am one of those statistics. I now carry a firearm at all times!
- March 26, 2009 by mike dunkerley
  
  Moms without guns = raped, beaten and robbed. When will people realize that the reason it is a second amendment is to protect us.
  
  Reply
  - January 22, 2011 by Joe in PA
    
    Several people here have mentioned the Second Amendment, stating that it is there so we have a right to protect ourselves.
    
    I own a gun have had a carry permit int he past (I let it expire) and will soon have one again. I own a Ruger SP101 Stainless 5 shot 357 and I'm looking at getting a .380 semi auto to carry. I have owned in the past a Beretta 92 9mm and a H&K USP .40 cal.
    
    With that said the purpose of the Second Amendment and the reason the right "SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED" is so the the citizenry can be as well armed as the body that governs them. Should a government of the people by the people and for the people cease to exist it is our RESPONSIBILITY as citizens to over through that body of government and reinstate a proper Government. As an ancillary benefit it also allows us to protect ourselves.
    
    I have often said that if someone tries to hurt my wife, kids or me they will leave my home in a bag 158 gr. heavier. Because if nothing else it is better to be tried by 12 then carried by 6.
- April 5, 2009 by C W R
  
  You said people “should not have to carry guns”. Well, no one has to. It is a choice. I believe in being personally responsible for the safety of myself and my loved ones. You also indicate that owning a gun is putting an emphasis on killing. I never want to kill another human, but if the choice is me or my family versus a criminal intent on doing us harm I will pull the trigger without any hesitation. If you really believe private citizens don't need guns read, Thank God I had a Gun by Chris Bird. But once again, the matter is your own personal choice, and you’re the only one who has the right to make it. Just don't expect a 911 phone call to be as effective a deterrent against criminals as a gun pointed at them.
  
  Reply
- May 8, 2009 by TEXAS JIM
  
  These idiots that think we as American citizens don't need to carry a gun or a woman doesn't need to carry a gun are totally stupid. Our wonderful country has gone to the dogs because of the 545 as well as the judges that are on the bench to change the laws that this country was founded on. Read the book if you can read English and realize 2 + 2 is 4 anywhere you go. Live by our laws of the constitution that tihs country was founded on or leave now; you won't be missed. Proud to be an American.
  
  Reply
- May 12, 2009 by nickajack
  
  There have been some good comments and then there have been some very naive comments. I won't point out the naive ones because anyone reading this thread with a small amount of common sense knows which ones I'm talking about. The fact of the matter is, any law abiding citizen in America has the God given right to own, possess, and carry a firearm. That right is not limited to protection of themselves and their loved ones. It is a right we have, period. One of the very few we have left. God forbid, if that right is ever infringed upon by the government, we will cease to have any liberties and freedoms whatsoever. Why is that so difficult for some people to understand? The Founding Fathers knew it full well, and tried to pass that knowledge on to future generations of Americans. Somehow, that knowledge, or in fact, common sense, has become diluted with political correctness and pacification. In a perfect world or "utopia" ...no, we should not "have to carry a gun to protect ourselves"...but this world is far from perfect. Make no mistake - A GUN DOES NOT KILL PEOPLE, IT IS A HARDENED HEART THAT KILLS. But in the act of protecting ones self, the commission of a firearm is the choice many choose....and they have that right. Get over it.
  
  Reply
- May 22, 2009 by David a yost
  
  As a gun owner and a carrier, I think your statement is completely absurd. I have to wonder what would you do if someone broke into your house and raped your wife if you have one , or one of your kids. I have to wonder if the thought to kill someone would cross your mind. Carrying a gun doesn't always mean the person wants to kill someone but at least has the chance to prevent a violent act against themselves. Le'ts face it, the world is not what it used to be and I think all women should carry guns. Remember it is our constitutional right to bear arms and thank God for that.
  
  Reply
- May 25, 2009 by James R
  
  People shouldn’t have to carry guns to protect themselves but this is the real world and weather you like it or not there are criminals with guns. You can't count on the police being there to protect you. Besides if a criminal tries to attack my family and I kill him he knew the risk of trying to assault someone. We are a protected society because we are an armed society! If we weren’t allowed to have guns the only people with guns would be cops and criminals and I don't trust either one.
  
  Reply
- June 28, 2009 by USRNSF_TED
  
  A gun is a tool. In the trained hands of a good person it will do good things. In the hands of a bad person it will do bad things. It's really as simple as that. That said, parents have more to worry about than the bad guy. if your going to carry it, do it legal and do it smart. 1. Know your gun. 2. Know the laws pertaining to your gun and to guns around kids. 3. Practice. A gun is worthless to you if you cant hit the broad side of a barn. 4. (Especially around kids) Your gun should be on YOU not in a bag. It can't protect you if your not protecting it. 5. Know your gun.... yes I said it again. You don't want to be another accident statistic. So use your head. a.) you carry a gun to protect your family not to endanger them so don't handle it needlessly around anyone. You not going to juggle hammers in bare feet. Don't juggle your gun around your family. b.) Learn everything about your gun, know it like the back of your hand, now what to expect from it and take care of it so it will act like you expect it to.If your not going to do that don't carry it. c.) If handling your gun scares you shouldn't handle it. It is a tool, like a hammer or a car. If you know how to use it will do what you expect. If you don't know how to use it you could hurt yourself or someone else with it.
  
  Reply
- July 11, 2009 by Logan Dodd II
  
  In response to Tim Smith, while it is true that people "should not" have to carry guns to protect themselves, families, and even others around them, t is becoming more imperative that responsible people do. This should be done, but also responsible people should make sure they know how to handle, use and respect any guns they choose to own or operate. The more responsible people who do carry and have guns, the safer we all would be. We all hope it is a deterrent, and that the extent of their use will be target practice, and possibly hunting also, but we must 'stand ready' to defend against those individuals who are less scrupulous, and some just plain mean. Growing up on farms, I learned to respect and use firearms at an early age, and I have tried to pass that along to my wife and kids too. Teaching them to respect and the proper way to handle and use firearms takes the 'mystery' that attracts many young people, and gets them in trouble.
  
  Reply
- July 29, 2009 by KEVIN MCFADDEN
  
  Moms should be able to carry guns. They should be able to obtain a license to carry. In a perfect world, this would not be necessary but, face it, crime is rampant and I would never deny a person the right to protect themselves and their family. Hooray for any mom that carry a firearm because she just took herself off the "victim" list!
  
  Reply
- August 6, 2009 by larry mcgee
  
  What world are you living in? what should i keep to protect myself? Should i reason with the lowlife,promise him a job or tell him i wont tell the police about what happen? If this is your plan,you will be victim. Feell the power of owning a firearm.
  
  Reply
- August 30, 2009 by Enrique Bueno
  
  it is sad that americans are filled with a false sense of security, and that the average person dwells in a iam in a sfe inviroment, and bad people dwell on their ignorance, if every one was a responsible gun owner we would be a much safer society the criminals would not have it so easy in terrorizing law abiding people, but would feel a shift of ballance in who has the upperhand, its like the simple phrase locks are only meant to keep honest people honest,, criminals will do what ever it takes to acheive their simple and sometimes hard to understand way of thinking and their acts,, but put a gun in their face and they quickly get a dose of reality,,, that they can relate to,lets let the criminals be terrorized for once....lets keep our families and our country safe.
  
  Reply
- September 28, 2009 by Andrew Levandoski
  
  The reason people carry guns to protect them selfes is because criminals use there weapons against civilains to cause them harm, we are simply fighting back and showing criminals that we are not afraid and will fight back. And it is also my right as an American to bear arms.
  
  Reply
- January 21, 2010 by Sheryl Featherstone
  
  if I'm in a mall and some crazy person starts shooting, I want to have the means to defend myself...it is that kind of world. Just last year people were killed in a mall next to my home by a person just that crazy.
  
  Reply
- January 27, 2010 by Dave V.
  
  I carry for my protection and to protect my family. No questions asked. If someone attempts to assault me or my family they will die trying. For those who say we don't need guns for protection... Good luck to you. May you never need one.. If you do and you don't have one. Call the police, that's why they carry them... I don't feel the need to kill, I feel need to prevent myself or loved ones from being killed. If in the process of doing so I inflict injury that may cause the assailant to die, so it shall be. The assailant made the mistake, his issue...
  
  Reply
- March 2, 2010 by Justin Wyatt
  
  Are you kidding? Maybe you should re-read the article. The emphasis isn't on 'killing', it's on defending yourself and your family. What would you do if an intruder entered your home. Kindly ask them to leave? I don't think so. You would defend your family to the best of your ability, and if you have a gun, your chances of surviving and protecting those whom you love are much greater. Why wouldn't you want a gun? Doesn't it make sense to have the most effective protection available? Remember, restricting legal gun use DOESN'T deter criminals; It just makes their jobs easier.
  
  Reply
- March 5, 2010 by gizmoguy
  
  So in your viewpoint it is better to have a child abductor take your child or a rapist beat you and infect you with some awful disease instead of defending your children against a lowlife or protecting your husband from catching the same awful disease that the lowlife gave you because of your views on killing? Self Defense isn't about carrying a gun and looking for the next opportunity to shoot someone. That makes you as bad as the rapist! It is a means of preserving your family and is to be used as a last resort. You brainwashed idiots that think guns = death have it completely backwards! In fact, if you study statistics you will find that 1 armed citizen who stops "Kills" 1 would be rapist, kidnapper, assailant, etc. who was an immediate threat to their personal safety, has in fact protected numerous lives because these people prey and feed on the vulnerable and would strike again when he finds his next weak victim. It's proven that more guns = less crime. Criminals are cowards and won't approach someone who may be a threat to them.
  
  Reply
- March 10, 2010 by Charles W. Tait
  
  OK Timmy, time to grow a pair and take responsibility for yourself and your family!
  
  Reply
  - July 27, 2010 by bill holloway
    
    I think this is a great comment. Read "Timmy" as "Timid" . Real men protect their families from violence.
- April 2, 2010 by Peter Tran
  
  If someone is out to kill you, the only way to stop them is to kill them. It's the natural law that goes back all the way through history; "Kill or be killed."
  
  Reply
  - January 7, 2011 by SCOOTER
    
    WOW!!! I NEVER !!!!! MANY OF THESE COMMENTS ARE WRITTEN BY PEOPLE WHO (SHOULD NOT) OWN GUNS.
- April 18, 2010 by Ron Y
  
  It is everyones right to carry for self defense. In particular MOMS. In our world it has become a necasary mode of self defense. Don't let the LEFT leaning politicians take thir right away from you or anyone.
  
  Reply
- April 22, 2010 by raven
  
  1# your shold not need a firearm 2# soon you will not babal to buy a firearm will in ca aneyways 3# i say its is better to have a firearm an not need it then to need it and not have it and die...i say if they are willing to risk killing you or ur kids..!!!!blow off the head WHO GIVES THEM THE RIGHT . back in the 1920s-30s-40s-50s there was 10% of the firearms killings compare to now and why you ask back then there was a 80% chanhs that they will shot back.!
  
  Reply
  - January 20, 2011 by jdno3
    
    your missspelled ranting's tell us that we prob need to be protected from you!
- April 27, 2010 by ronnie
  
  im not a mother with young children,however i am a father of a 19yo and a 25 yo. i feel every mom with children and every woman without children should keep a weapon either in their home or on their person.if or when a threat presents itself a woman or a mom should be able to deal with it on the spot. please carry safely.
  
  Reply
- May 8, 2010 by Mo King
  
  Every person on earth has the right, given by the Creator, to protect themselves. By default, that includes violent reaction to an immanent attack. If one does not believe this, that is to their shame and folly. I seek to harm no one, but to protect myself and my loved ones and those being threatened with bodily harm or death. That would include a gun, if I so desire.
  
  Reply
- May 15, 2010 by dale
  
  no law abiding person wants to kill anybody, they also dont want to be killed.
  
  Reply
- May 22, 2010 by Mimi
  
  Ummm...we're talking about a right to self defense and survival. Unfortunately, we don't live in a Utopia where murderers and vicious criminals are nonexistent. You're statement shows either ignorance, or an inability to view the modern world in a realistic manner.
  
  Reply
- May 23, 2010 by ron b
  
  For women or the elderly, a gun levels the playing field. A 98 lb women or an 80 year old can take down 300 lb assailant with a bullet. Ever heard the expression " don't try to mug an old man, he will just kill you" !!
  
  Reply
- May 23, 2010 by Ron
  
  you are so uninformed
  
  Reply
  - January 7, 2011 by SCOOTER
    
    PERHAPS MANY OF THESE PEOPLE ,WOULD BE BETTER SERVED BY SIGNING UP FOR A CLASS IN ENGLISH !!!!!!
- June 8, 2010 by Don McDermott
  
  Of course they shouldn't.
  
  But also, no one should molest or hurt either Mom or the kids. Till then, a gun is a great equalizer.
  
  If a few cases, of attackers being blown away, were shown in the news I'd bet attacks on moms, dads and others would diminish.
  
  Read up on Kennesaw, GA.
  
  Don
  
  Reply
- June 8, 2010 by Joe
  
  This is an oldy but a goodie "If we outlaw guns only outlaws will have guns" Is that the way you progressives want to live. Sorry I refuse to.
  
  Yours truly, a licensed gun owner.
  
  Reply
- June 8, 2010 by Joe
  
  People should not have to carry guns to protect them selves I agree but its a same they have to!!
  
  Reply
- June 26, 2010 by jack
  
  The right to bear arms is not a right to kill, it's a right to protect yourself. Where ever gun control has been put into affect, gun violence has increased. Where people have been able to carry a weapon. gun violence has decreased. I don't want the only ones carrying guns to be the criminals.
  
  Reply
- June 29, 2010 by Bob
  
  AMEN! Avery sensible answer to an irritating subject....quail2
  
  Reply
- July 10, 2010 by Bob
  
  Police are only minutes away when you need protection in seconds.
  
  Reply
  - September 3, 2010 by larry
    
    This is for the person that made the comment " The police would be there in a second " BULL !!!!!!!!! I carry legally and if it's a choice of waiting for an intruder to harm my family or myself while I STAY ON THE PHONE WITH POLICE AND THE INTRUDER IS COMING AT ME OR MY FAMILY the only thing I have to tell the police is send out an ambulance . AND AS FAR AS THE INTRUDER IT'S ALL I HAVE FOR HIM ' IS I HOPE YOU MAKE IT. The police could never bring help soon enough to help or save us , due to being no closer than several miles away. BUT IN REFERENCE TO OUR SECOND AMMENDMENT PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU USE THAT RIGHT ONLY IF NECESSARY, BECAUSE AFTER WHAT I READ UP ON THE FLORIDA STATUES RECENTLY YOU COULD SERVE UP 20 YEARS AND NO LESS THAN 10 YEARS FOR JUST DISCHARGING A FIREARM IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA . EVEN IF YOU FIRE THE WEAPON INTO THE GROUND TO SCARE AN INTRUDER AWAY .There are no laws to protect law abiding citizens , the criminal as of right now in the state of florida has all the rights. You all may want to check on the errors that were made as our law makers wrote up new laws that keep our judges from telling a jury just about all our rights under our SECOND AMMENDMENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PROTECT YOURSELF !!!!!BUT BEWARE 20 YEARS A LONG TIME!!!!!!!!!!! GOOD LUCK AND HOPE THE DAY NEVER COMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- July 12, 2010 by Ed Tschopp
  
  Guns are not the problem. Criminals are the problem. If you think a law abiding citizen should not have the right to legal self protection such as a gun. You ought to leave and take up residence in a communist country. You see, when we loose this right we are headed toward the government controlling our day to day lives. We live in AMERICA not one of those other countries. Look at the crime rates in Chicago after the gun bans went into effect. The Crime rates tripled. The statistics are overwheling for the 2nd amendment. Do the research for yourself. Unbiased and far reaching.
  
  Ed Tschopp
  
  Reply
- July 13, 2010 by little willie
  
  the reason that we as law understanding the bad guys have gun to do harm to us so why not by the law protect ourself. what world are you in. it can`t macon.
  
  Reply
- July 25, 2010 by G. Ayers
  
  Yes -protect yourself and your family-As an American it is our right . 2nd Amendment. My wife and I just got concealed weapons licenses. A 60 years of age we took a safety class in Central Fl. along w/ how to handle and fire weapons. Law abiding citizens should know how to handle weapons confidently and safely. Moms & Dads should be able to protect their families.
  
  Reply
- July 27, 2010 by bill holloway
  
  I agree: we shouldn't have to carry a gun in order to protect ourselves - but the bad guys who intend to do us harm carry theirs. I love these ACLU types who say you should not have a gun to protest yourself and your family, BUT THEY DO NOT OFFER AN ALTERNATE. Police routinely take about 20 minutes to respond to a call - and remember, Police don't stop crime - they investigate it. Please advise me, you anti-gunners, if three druggies kick in my front door at 2AM some morning - WHAT DO YOU ADVISE ME TO DO??
  
  Reply
  - September 23, 2010 by john
    
    My is John masoner and I hold a concealed carry permit and from the time I got home with it I got down on my knees, I prayed to GOD that I would never have to use my gun on another human being,but I will not stand by while some one tries to kill my family or friends or some innosent victom or bystander. I am crippled from one end to the other so I cant run or even fight back so I will have to shoot or die and thats the way it is in my case,but if you have another alternate means to escape then use it! pepper gas, hi powered stungun,tazergun
- August 3, 2010 by Walker
  
  When seconds count......the police are only minutes away.
  
  Reply
- August 22, 2010 by Nadja
  
  I think you misunderstand. I do not wish to ever have to kill someone; but I refuse to be raped or killed.
  
  My family literally had to fight a shooting war against the first organization in the US to promote "gun control" - the KKK. They tried to lynch one of my great-grandfathers and my grandfather and they tried to run another of my great-grandfathers out of the county. Just what do you think would have happened to my family had the Klan been able to get their "gun control" laws passed?
  
  The Klan went after Blacks, Jews, Catholics, American Indians, and many other groups in the 1910s-1920s. Our family was targeted in part because my one great-grandfather had the courage to denounce them from the pulpit.
  
  At one time the Klan was the largest men's "civic" group in the United States. Few realize how pervasive Klan membership was in the US in the past - they controlled the government in such distinctly non-Southern states as New Jersey. Indiana, and Oregon and terrorized people in Eastern Colorado and elsewhere in the Southwest. My family dealt with a common situation at the time - local law enforcement were ardent Klan supporters, as were most clergymen. Both Senator Byrd (D-WV) and President Truman got their start as Klan politicians.
  
  Gun control is rooted in racism and elitism. How many people know that the term "Saturday Night Special" is an abbreviation of "N-wordtown Saturday Night Special?"
  
  Reply
- August 28, 2010 by curtis
  
  I think not only moms should own guns but all law bidden citizen should have a gun.Then bad guys is going to have a gun why should we be the only one that dont have a gun.?? This is a fact Canada ban guns for everyone and the crime went up 50%.That even happen in UK. If you ban guns the only ones that will have guns are cops and the badguy.Cops are short handed so they cant be every where like moms and home owners.They should arm them selfs with guns with the proper training. Thanks Curtis
  
  Reply
- September 5, 2010 by Kevin Butcher
  
  U were not speciffic. R u 4 or against guns? If the politicians and lawyers did their jobs, criminals would not b back on the streets. The laws would favor the law-abiding and victims, not the criminals. Responsible gun owners do NOT want 2 kill. They would do it only as a last resort.
  
  Reply
- September 19, 2010 by chad b
  
  this whiole article was on if mothers should carry to protect themselves and their children. please tell me where there was any part about killing people or using the gun for any reason besides defense.i believe you watch way too much tv and lack real world experience. what you know of about guns is what you see in the gangster movies where they do use guns irresponsibly. what you do not see are the other 85 million gun owners in america who do not go around shooting people or waving them around.
  
  Reply
- September 27, 2010 by Ron R
  
  When you protect your family. You have to aim to Kill, or the bad guy will SUE you for everything you have. I have a doughter of 16months and have a gun and a quick lock box and very good dogs. They sleep on the first floor. I think good dogs are better then just an alarms.
  
  Reply
- October 9, 2010 by Jay
  
  I personally know of the KILLING of a co-workers Son,Daughter-in-law & Grandchildren while they slept by an intruder with an "ASSAULT BALLPEEN HAMMER". I would rather see the KILLING of the INTRUDER than the death of a whole family. Whoever you are, you really need to wake up. The police are not going to be there for you when you need protection the most. They are there after it's all over to document the crime and maybe catch the criminal. It doesn't do a damn thing for the victims when they are dead. And yes there are more bad people out there than you think. Good luck with your 911 call when Your LIFE is in danger.
  
  Reply
- October 16, 2010 by JM
  
  I agree with statement..."People should not have to carry guns to protect themselves.", but I believe America's laws were made to be obeyed and that our Constitutional liberties are just as important today as 200 years ago. And by the way, the Constitution does not say Government shall decree the right to keep and bear arms. The Constitution says 'The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.
  
  So even though I shouldn't have to carry a gun to protect myself and family, it is my right and it is up to me whether or not to exercise that right.
  
  Reply
- October 22, 2010 by charlotte
  
  I think if you are attacked you should defend your self at any cost even if that means causeing harm to your attacker.
  
  Reply
- October 26, 2010 by Salamatin
  
  If you or your family members were getting attacked, and raped, I bet you would Love to shoot them, or would you say, oh please don't hurt us, that's not nice?
  
  Reply
- December 11, 2010 by bob sonnon
  
  i carry agun not that i every want to take a life but to protect my family and myslef iwould not think twice also i do have children in my home and they were taught to respect all firearms the lowlifes in this world wont think twice about hurting someone iwont think twice about protecting my family
  
  Reply
- December 18, 2010 by Danny918
  
  When seconds count the police are minutes away!!!
  
  Reply
- December 28, 2010 by Layne
  
  I think everyone who can legally own should carry. It would drop crime even more. MOTHERS INCLUDED. A friend sent me this letter. Too bad for Brits. They lost their right to defend themselves..
  
  Interesting take and one you don't hear much. . . . . .As the Supreme Court hears arguments for and against the Chicago , IL Gun Ban, I offer you another stellar example of a letter, that places the proper perspective on what a gun means to a civilized society. Read this eloquent and profound letter and pay close attention to the last paragraph of the letter....
  
  "The Gun Is Civilization" by Maj. L. Caudill USMC (Ret) Human beings only have two ways to deal with one another: reason and force. If you want me to do something for you, you have a choice of either convincing me via argument, or force me to do your bidding under threat of force. Every human interaction falls into one of those two categories, without exception. Reason or force, that's it.
  
  In a truly moral and civilized society, people exclusively interact through persuasion. Force has no place as a valid method of social interaction, and the only thing that removes force from the menu is the personal firearm, as paradoxical as it may sound to some. When I carry a gun, you cannot deal with me by force. You have to use reason and try to persuade me, because I have a way to negate your threat or employment of force. The gun is the only personal weapon that puts a 100-pound woman on equal footing with a 220-pound mugger, a 75-year old retiree on equal footing with a 19-year old gang banger, and a single guy on equal footing with a carload of drunk guys with baseball bats. The gun removes the disparity in physical strength, size, or numbers between a potential attacker and a defender
  
  There are plenty of people who consider the gun as the source of bad force equations. These are the people who think that we'd be more civilized if all guns were removed from society, because a firearm makes it easier for a mugger to do his job. That, of course, is only true if the mugger's potential victims are mostly disarmed either by choice or by legislative fiat--it has no validity when most of a mugger's potential marks are armed.
  
  People who argue for the banning of arms ask for automatic rule by the young, the strong, and the many, and that's the exact opposite of a civilized society. A mugger, even an armed one, can only make a successful living in a society where the state has granted him a force monopoly.
  
  Then there's the argument that the gun makes confrontations lethal that otherwise would only result in injury. This argument is fallacious in several ways. Without guns involved, confrontations are won by the physically superior party inflicting overwhelming injury on the loser.
  
  People who think that fists, bats, sticks, or stones don't constitute lethal force watch too much TV, where people take beatings and come out of it with a bloody lip at worst.
  
  The fact that the gun makes lethal force easier works solely in favor of the weaker defender, not the stronger attacker. If both are armed, the field is level.
  
  The gun is the only weapon that's as lethal in the hands of an octogenarian as it is in the hands of a weight lifter.
  
  It simply wouldn't work as well as a force equalizer if it wasn't both lethal and easily employable.
  
  When I carry a gun, I don't do so because I am looking for a fight, but because I'm looking to be left alone.
  
  The gun at my side means that I cannot be forced, only persuaded. I don't carry it because I'm afraid, but because it enables me to be unafraid. It doesn't limit the actions of those who would interact with me through reason, only the actions of those who would do so by force.
  
  It removes force from the equation... and that's why carrying a gun is a civilized act.
  
  By Maj. L. Caudill USMC (Retired) So the greatest civilization is one where all citizens are equally armed and can only be persuaded, never
  
  Reply
- January 12, 2011 by justsumstuff
  
  Do you lock you doors and windows where you live? Why? To protect yourself and your family? You have just acknowledged that you must protect yourself & yours. Do you want you children to bury a parent? My children burying me is not my biggest fear. My biggest fear is getting permanently hurt by a thug. A blow to the head = Permanent brain trauma = I don't function as an adult anymore. neck or spinal injury = paralyzed. I have to be put in a nursing home, or adult group home. I'm still alive, but I'm not functioning. I don't want my kids to visit me in a nursing facility & see me stupid, drooling, in a diaper; or getting passed around for "duty visitation". That is my biggest fear = unable to be a mom. Mothers don't kill, but mothers protect, if killing a threat is protecting, I'm there.
  
  Reply
- January 13, 2011 by Keith Myers
  
  The natural instinct of mothers is to protect her children. The problem arises that the fact is bad guys have guns. They use weapons to instill great fear into victims. They are less likely to commit these crimes if they know people are armed. Weapon or tool, that depends on how it is used by a person. It is people not weapons that kill. Law abiding citizens are not the problem. Crimals are. No guns, criminals would go rampade. Police can't be every where.
  
  Reply
- January 20, 2011 by jdno3
  
  Let's see..kill or be killed?? Daaaa!! This day and age of no justice requires that you MUST protect yourself!
  
  Reply
- January 30, 2011 by maggie
  
  From experience as a mother with two married son's. and has a hand gun license, it was the best thing i ever did. I travel and regularly alone, with the times changing more and more in contact with undesirable people, i would say two thumbs up for all those woman who would like to obtain a license should carry one by all means.
  
  Reply
- March 30, 2011 by Anita Adams
  
  I am a woman who is armed at all times. I am not a fighter, and am small in stature. I feel much safer knowing I have my gun. I shoot at the range regularly so that I am familiar with my weapon. I understand "Know your target and what is beyond". Criminals that are bent on harming me will understand quickly that I can and will protect myself. I think people who are against guns in these times, are in denial that the criminal element has increased over the years. Hopefully, just showing your gun is a deterrent to robbery, rape or murder. I do not dwell on these things happening, and I try to see the good in people, but I also am not naive to crime. Many kidnappings might have been avoided if the victim had been armed.
  
  Reply
- April 15, 2011 by Tom
  
  Every Legitimate, non felon citizen is entitled to carry a fire arm despite the POLITICAL DESIRES OF CERTAIN LARGE CITY MAYORS. WHY BECAUSE A COP IS USUALLY TOO FAR AWAY WHEN NEEDED OR IS TOO HEAVY TO CARRY ON ONES HIP.EVERY ONE HAS A RIGHT TO PROTECT THEM SELVES AND LOVED ONES FROM HARM BY WHAT EVER MEANS THEY CHOOSE OR HAVE AT THEIR DISPOSAL. IF SOME SCUM BAG ATTACKS ANY ONE WITH CRIMINAL INTENT THEY DESERVE WHAT EVER THEY GET. PERSONALLY I PREFER 230 GR JACKETED .45ACP HOLLOW POINTS AT 850 FPS.
  
  Reply
- April 19, 2011 by Mike
  
  I disagree, especially since the criminals will carry anyway. This leaves Law Abiding citizens at their mercy. It is easier to carry a firearm than a Police Officer. A hangun for personal defense is mere seconds away in this case; A Police Officer is minutes away and usually arrives after the crime is committed.
  
  The Supreme Court in 2008 affirmed the fact that the Second Amendement to our Constitution "is an Individual Right" and is not limited strictly to "Militias", i.e., the National Guard. Bet you never saw that reported by any major media outlet or publication.
  
  Reply
- July 14, 2011 by rich bittman
  
  Timmy, what does it say about your thought process when you confuse a persons god given right to protect themselves, with your assumption that they are only interested in killing someone. On the contrary, they are more interested in protecting themselves or others from someone who would do them harm. A gun is not a good thing, or a bad thing. It is just a thing that can be used for good or bad depending on whose hand it is in. Carolyn McCarthy was elected on a anti gun ticket because her son was gravely wounded, and her husband was killed along with many others on a Long Is. train by some nut with a gun. If there was someone there with a right to carry firearm, and shot the nut before he got to her son and husband, would she than have run for office on a right to carry platform ? perhaps so, but one thing is certain at any given time, and any given location people who would do good outnumber people who would do harm literally thousands to one. I can't carry a gun because I obey the law but if I am ever in a bad situation where me or mine are in danger, I hope there is someone there with a "good" gun.
  
  Reply
- August 29, 2011 by Ding Dugay
  
  No I do not shoot to kill, I shoot to stay alive!
  
  Reply
- September 11, 2011 by Jack Lytal
  
  Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness......is an American Right, so is protecting yourself, and especially your family. While it "shouldn't" be necessary, it too often is necessary. It is naive to "wish" it were not necessary, and every day innocent Americans are harmed by their government denying their rights to defend themselves. IS it OK for a "MOM" to carry a gun if she feels the need to protect herself and her kids................You betcha !!
  
  Reply
- November 6, 2011 by john brogan
  
  People in this country have a right to bear arms for their own protection. This is not a right or privelage to just go out and kill people but to protect oneself,family from those that will try and hurt you or kill you. Just recently we've heard of home invasion where mothers have been raped and killed and daughter in their own home. Carrying a gun is for self protection and is very necessary in todays world.
  
  Reply
- December 3, 2011 by walt straub
  
  The courts have ruled against suing police departments by citizens for not protecting them. The courts said police are only responsible to investiogate after the crime was commited. It is incumbent upon the citizen to protect themselves.
  
  Reply
July 29, 2008 by Dave Washburn

I have no issue with a mother carrying a concealed weapon, including a gun, as a means of protection for herself and her children. Frankly, I have no issue with anyone doing this as long as they get a license, register the gun and take safety courses. However, my stance on gun rights is not why I'm commenting, so let me get to my point. The mother who keeps her gun in her diaper bag should be locked up. That's just plain irresponsible. A holster keeps your firearm at the ready, but more or less secure. A diaper bag typically has a big gaping hole that can be reached into by anyone and (if protected by a zipper) unzipped by nearly any toddler. Not to mention the fact that based on my experience with diaper bags, they're not exactly super-organized. I wouldn't want to mess with fishing my gun out if I needed it at a moment's notice.

Reply
- February 25, 2009 by Sally Jane
  
  Toddlers aren't strong enough to pull the trigger on a gun.
  
  Reply
  - February 28, 2009 by MamaG
    
    Typically, a toddler is not strong enough to fire a weapon, but you must never underestimate a toddler! My daughter managed to open a childproof prescription bottle when she was just 9 months old (thank god it was empty!) They may not mean to do these acts of "strength" but they often find ways to do things that we don't expect them to do. My daughter's safety is far more important than anything in this world and I take extreme measures in making sure my guns aren't anywhere that she can get to!
  - March 2, 2009 by brad
    
    The number one reason toddlers shoot themselves is because their fingers are not strong enough to put a trigger but their thumbs are. They will turn the gun to face them and press forward on the trigger with their thumbs. Two hands, thumbs on trigger and barrel in face. Guns are for shooting criminals intent on doing you harm. Keep them away from your children.
  - March 15, 2009 by Jessica Tillson
    
    That was the dumbest thing that I have ever heard! It does not take much strength to pull a trigger, especially with the "hair triggers" now days! You definitely, under estimate what a toddler can do. I am a mother of a toddler and a gun enthusiast; I have a shot gun, a hand gun, swords and other knives. Things like this though, are kept up and out of her reach, but as soon as she is able to hold a gun, I will teach her how to shoot it the right way!
- April 17, 2009 by sj
  
  The diaper bag, I am sure, is one purposely designed to carry a gun. Look them up.
  
  Reply
- August 2, 2009 by Jeff Schwen
  
  As a concealed carry fellow exercising my 2nd ammendment right , how does a licence and registration help me?
  
  Reply
July 29, 2008 by Jane smith

I can understand a parents concern for safety for their children but a mother carrying a gun on her during the day has to also store that gun in their home at night. Anyone who reads the paper should know that guns in the home are a bigger risk to children than protection. There are dozens of statistics that state that guns kept in homes for protection are more likely to be used in an unintentional shooting, a homicide or a suicide. If parents really want to keep their children safe they should teach them about the dangers of gun violence and should educate themselves about how big issue gun violence amongst children is.

Reply
- February 23, 2009 by Ed Noell
  
  You should try reading some real statistics to find out what's really happening with guns. Go to gunfacts.org and give it a try.
  
  Reply
- February 24, 2009 by MD Farney
  
  It was good to see that you put a big question mark behind statistics for your statement and comments are just plain incorrect and the real facts maybe not the newspaper your reading but the facts. Go take a gun safety course and buy a gun and fight for your rights do not let anyone take your 2nd Amendment Rights away or reduce them in anyway. One day you will thank me.
  
  Reply
- February 25, 2009 by Sally Jane
  
  Only 0.1% of all child deaths are gun related. Keeping guns in the home save many times more lives than innocent lives taken.
  
  Reply
- June 2, 2009 by John Gore
  
  I cannot understand why there is such a debate in having guns in the home with children in the home. I grew up with guns in the home and they were not locked in a safe or cabinet. I was taught at a very young age about the dangers of guns and what they are to be used for. I shot my first gun at age 6 and have been handling guns ever since and used them for hunting and for War Time. I am a firm believer that guns are important in our lives today more than ever because of the rise of home invasions and other crimes upon honest citizens. Wake Up and smell the Coffee and train your children at a young age about guns and the importance of safety and only use guns for self defense and for hunting food when necessary. Guns can be used for recreation in target shooting as well. Always remember the gun is not what kills but it is the criminal behind the gun. Do not put down the honest citizens for doing what is best for their family. All I ask is that you train your children as I was by my parents the proper use of a gun whether a pistol or shotgun or rifle. One day we all may need to defend ourselves.
  
  Reply
- June 7, 2009 by Scott Cra
  
  I have raised two boys that are grown and on their own now. I have always had guns in the home but they were taught not to even touch them unless I was with them. They knew better because we had strict rules about them. I know without a doubt they never touched one even if I wasn't in the house. Every home should have a gun for self defense. What needs to be done is teach your children to have respect for the rules of the house but showing them respect for obeying them and you won't have any trouble... My guns were never locked up nor unloaded. I started teaching them how to shoot and gun safety around 5 yrs old. I don’t hunt anymore but we still do target shooting they are 24 and 26 now and I have a tough time out shooting them at competition target shootings. They were taught from the start that guns are made for three reasons and that competition or sport shooting, hunting and killing and we all pray to never be faced with the later one. In the same token I don’t want to have to sit by and watch my family or myself tortured or killed with no means of defense. Yes I have had to use my weapon in self defense on 2 occasions in the last 45 years both were before I started into law enforcement. Once as a determent and once discharged. That’s something you never forget. I have had several neighbors ask me to teach them how to shoot and handle a firearm in the last 10 yrs and I do so starting with the safety and storage first off before they get to touch a gun in my presents. I line in a rural area and the response time for a police officer is 10 minutes plus. Providing they are tied up on another call. ( No I’m not making this up I worked the last 14 ½ years before retirement in law enforcement both on the road and dispatching so I know time spans all too well. ) Anyone that thinks the police can protect you is just fooling themselves. 80 to 90% of the time we end up working to solve the crime. To prevent one give you the feeling that you actually did what you got into law enforcement in the first place. I will always support private gun ownership but you need to know your gun, how and when to use it because home invasions are going to continue to rise as time goes on. Criminals DO NOT LOOK AT THE LAW for guidance. God bless us and the United States because we are headed down a long and dangerous road if we remove private gun ownership!!
  
  Reply
- June 18, 2009 by Debbie Miller
  
  Thank you for your response regarding gun control. You said exactly what I've felt for quite some time. Please consider running for public office where ever you live!!
  
  Reply
- July 23, 2009 by gavin eggleston
  
  If a gun is kept out of reach of children then there is no danger at all. If you'e not good at hiding maybe you should try a safe? It is hippies and liberals like yourself that will ruin this country and our rights associated with it.
  
  Reply
- July 26, 2009 by Bob Grusebic
  
  Wrong. There are roughly 600 accidental firearm deaths of children each year. This figure has been dropping for decades without the intervention of safe storage laws.
  
  Reply
- September 1, 2009 by David Faltot
  
  I read the article stating that guns in the home are more of a risk than a benefit. I would strongly disagree. Several years ago my home was broken into just after midnight. My wife, 3 sons and myself were inside and my wife happened to notice a pickup truck parked across the street from our home. The truck had a driver but all lights were off. While we watched he started the truck, kept the lights off, and drove slowly down the street. We had a high wooden fence around the back and I was worried he would come down the alley so we cracked the back door to hear if anything or anyone was making any noise. Soon we heard footsteps coming up to our rear gate. He opened the gate approached the back door and entered. In the meantime my wife picked up my pistol (which was loaded) and handed it to me. I told him to freeze, which he didn't, so I fired. He turned and ran, escaping through our newly built subdivision. The police later tracked him down and he made the mistake of taking a shot at them. He subsequently died in the exchange and we discovered later than he was responsible for breaking into homes and raping several women over a period of months.
  
  Reply
- December 20, 2009 by Anne Geoghan
  
  Any responsible gun owner has any and all firearms secured at all times. This prevents children or any other person from causing any damage to person or property with the aforementioned firearm. We hear of children discharging firearms generally when the parents who do not teach their children respect for the firearm and have no idea how to secure a gun. The parent is the problem, not the gun. However, a gun, properly handled, is a tool. It is no different than a kitchen knife or a car or a baseball bat. These things, if mishandled, will also kill a human being.
  
  Reply
- January 28, 2010 by Jim Harris
  
  I can appreciate what you're saying in regards to a safety issue however many of the statistics regarding children and safety have been deliberately skewed by anti-gun organizations. They have often based their definition of "children" to include emancipated young adults as old as 25! These include drug induced situations with illegally owned firearms. Beware of the statistics of these anti-gun organizations. After all that's how they recruit and add funds. I am a former police firearms instructor here in the Chicago area and have five daughters. Instead of hiding my firearms, I taught each of them to safely use and respect them at a very early age. This eliminated the "mystery" and subsequent curiosity and also let them know how to safely handle and use a firearm for recreation and home defense. This is the way Americans typically learned about firearms before well-intentioned but misguided activists interfered. As the number of guns have increased, the numbers of accidents involving those under 18 have continued to decrease. As a former police officer I support armed moms. I have seen the result, too many times, of helpless unarmed moms. I want to give them a chance against evil, vicious thugs.
  
  Reply
- February 3, 2010 by JeffKnox
  
  The statistics claiming that a gun is a bigger threat than a help are quite simply bogus and have been roundly discredited. Of course a home with a gun in it is more likely to experience some sort of firearms incident than a gun with out a gun in it - just as a home with natural gas is more likely to have a gas explosion than an all electric home. Such broad generalizations are how those "danger of guns" statistics were generated. The fact is, there are guns in somewhere between 35% and 45% of all homes in the US and while the number of guns in private hands has quadrupled over the past 30 years, the number of serious accidents has fallen by over 50%. Also, research from Professor Gary Kleck at the University of Florida shows that while firearms are used some half-million times a year to commit crimes, guns are used more than 2 million times a year to stop crime. In most of those cases the defender never fires a shot. I've routinely carried a gun for the past 25 years. I have had to change my routines when my kids were small and now with my grandson. Guns can be dangerous and must be treated with respect, but many more children are killed or seriously injured in accidents involving cars, swimming pools, poisons, bicycles, skateboards, organized sports, trampolines, playground equipment... the list goes on an on. Guns are way down low on the list for serious accidents and continue to fall. Should everyone have a gun? Certainly not. Should every responsible, law-abiding citizen have the choice? Absolutely! The right to defend oneself and family is a fundamental human right - as is access to effective means of doing so.
  
  Reply
- March 29, 2010 by Jon
  
  First this is completely false and second consider the source, seriously the newspapers state the fact? Not anymore.
  
  Reply
- April 30, 2010 by VEW
  
  The "study" that is the foundation of the myth that guns are more dangerous to residents of home than to intruders comes from a selected sample of precincts in Seattle, Washington, They only counted incidents of self defense with a firearm when the intruder died. If they fled or were held for police it was not counted. They also did not exclude resident injuries that came from co-resident criminals shooting it out.
  
  The study carried the disclaimer "these results may not be representative". The "study" was not unbiased. It was designed and intended to produce a set of numbers to support a preconceived result.
  
  Reply
July 30, 2008 by Raymond Kelly McElhiney II

Mothers with guns is TRUTH. There are many women who have been in the military and are very well trained. I have been a guardian of history. History tells me in Australia when the Government made guns Illegal crime among the elderly risen 300% overall crime risen 80%. Now let us talk about Hitler. He got rid of guns for the safety of "The Children" (for your protection) and looked what happened. When it comes to truth, I cannot depend on the cops ... after rape! I cannot depend on our military.....during/after 911! I believe in law and what's just. I believe in freedom! THANKS

Reply
July 30, 2008 by Ty

It should be common knowledge by now that gun ownership is a terrible way to defend your kids. Mothers with guns will more likely end up killing their kids with it than saving them. Most of the time when guns are purchased for protection, they end up being used in suicides, homicides or murders, but not for safety. Even in the rare instance that you are attacked by someone with a gun, what help would having one too, do? It might make the assailant even more edgy or scared and more likely to shoot when he intended not to. Americans are in constant fear of being attacked, raped, mugged, shot at and everything else the media makes people fearful of. The fact that the media has mothers so scarred across the country that they are starting to think that carrying a 9mm in their diaper bag is responsible makes me sick. Guns kill many more innocent people than guilty people. Be smart, don’t buy a gun, and stop being so scared of EVERYTHING and EVERYONE!!! If you want to feel safer then get non-lethal protection or even more effective, a home burglar alarm. The best way to stay safe is to use common sense and learn how to identify dangers and avoid them. Just remember no matter what you see on the evening news, the reality is that the world is not full of creeps who are out to get you and your kids.

Reply
- February 23, 2009 by Rich
  
  citizen: an inhabitant of a city or town,one entitled to the rights and privileges of a freeman. subject: one that is placed under authority or control,one subject to a monarch and governed by a monarch's law. You anti-gun people need to take a hard look at those definitions.You are being controlled by fear and ignorance while at the same time fueling a dangerous Marxist philosophy. If your desire is to be an unarmed subject, then by all means exercise your God given right to do so and we who choose to exercise our God given right to self defense, which is secured by an armed citizenry, will do so too. You moms thinking about self defense, don't let fearful people and cowardly men dissuade you from your belief! Get educated, get a firearm and get trained! Check out information supplied by the NRA and get the truth on gun safety and statistics.Shooting can be fun and safe. God Bless.
  
  Reply
- February 24, 2009 by MD Farney
  
  You are just plain wrong! You’re wrong on if not all near all of your comments and so call facts. You need to live with or become closer to Law Enforcement personnel. We can let you in on the facts. You are today and have been more so each day that passes in greater danger than the day before and yes so are our children. If you live in a city, small town or on a country farm you will find more danger today than ever in American history. So, get your facts straight but more important go take a gun safety course and buy yourself a gun - you'll be thanking me sooner or later.
  
  Reply
- February 25, 2009 by Sally Jane
  
  Two-thirds of all gun related deaths involve criminals shooting criminals.
  
  Reply
- February 26, 2009 by Ted Hansgen
  
  Ty, think about this. When only criminals have guns, crime rates soar. Become familiar and proficient with and responsible with guns and the whole society will improve. Take guns away from responsible citizens and your safety along with mine will be in jeopardy.
  
  Reply
- February 27, 2009 by Gy Rich
  
  Sounds like the anti gun lobby has gotten your number. I'm a retired Marine sniper and have no problem with properly trained people carrying weapons. By the way if you read the diaper bag paragraph, you'll discover she is a cop. Lots of plain clothes policewomen carry in their purses. I don't leave the house without my 1911 these days and with the economy going south, many more that won't work will be trying to get what they can, any way they can. They won't get it from me.
  
  Reply
- February 27, 2009 by Bruce Walker
  
  You mention that people end up using the gun for murders and suicide than for home protection. I just wonder if the liberal media were to report every time a gun was used in self protection that there would be no more room to report about guns being used for murders and suicide? I once worked with a man who told me his guns weren't any good because they hadn't killed anybody. Guns do not kill people, people kill people. Occasionally they use guns, and many other times, they use other weapons and means.
  
  Reply
- February 28, 2009 by dj
  
  Unfortunately Ty you could not be more wrong, the world is full of drunks, murderers, rapist who are trying to do anything to hurt someone. Lets not forget that one innocent little girl being raped is too much. And if some bad people have to die to prevent that little girl from being attacked so be it. Please protect your family before it is too late.
  
  Reply
- March 9, 2009 by BOB ROUSE
  
  HOME BURGLAR ALARM IS NOT THE ANSWER. I WOULD RATHER HAVE A GUN IN MY HAND THAN A COP ON THE PHONE.
  
  Reply
- March 9, 2009 by Henzel
  
  People who say guns are bad and evil are the same as the people who ran the Salem Witch Trials. They want an easy excuse for what is wrong in the world, and guns are an easier target than looking at themselves. A gun is a tool, nothing more, nothing less. And any tool can be dangerous when put into the hands of untrained individuals. Should we take away all the Hammers in the country because they might be misused and hurt someone, of course not? People who claim guns are the cause of loss of life are lazy and ignorant. There is an old saying that goes "Guns don't kill people, people do” and its right. If a murderer or a rapist enters your home and intends to do you harm, it's not going to matter whether he has a gun or not, he or she is going to hurt you. I personally don't own a gun, but I do believe that it is our right to own one if we so desire. I wish this world was a better place and that guns weren't necessary, but they are. The first step in making the world a better place is to allow people the freedom of choice without the fear of recrimination or scorn. And a right to bear arms is a choice that we all need to make, but without trying to force others to our way of thinking.
  
  Reply
- March 15, 2009 by LARRY MORSE
  
  Ty and others: Gun ownership for self defense is only good for those dedicated enough to become educated about the benefits of gun ownership, those responsible enough to take the appropriate training and those mature enough to take responsibility for they're own safety and the safety of their families. Some folks just shouldn't have a gun for self defense.
  
  Reply
- March 21, 2009 by mark
  
  The reality is guns DON'T kill people. People kill people. A gun is not living. Do you think a gun jumped up and shot somebody? Get real and use YOUR brain. If somebody puts a gun in your face and tries to rob you are you going to ask him if he really intends to pull the trigger? Oh I forgot maybe the gun is going to jump up and shoot you its self.
  
  Reply
- March 23, 2009 by jim
  
  This is a fine example of a gun control rant. Unfortunately for its author, virtually every single factual assertion made is incorrect. First, "Mothers with guns will more likely end up killing their kids with it than saving them." The NRA's established number for crime prevention due to the presence of firearms is approximately 2 million per year; thus about 1/150 persons a year in the U.S. as a whole. While the exact number may be subject to challenge, I don't see anything like 1/150 children killed by firearms in any reputable statistics. Try less than one in a million. Virtually all are preventable with reasonable safety precautions and training. Second, "Most of the time when guns are purchased for protection, they end up being used in suicides, homicides or murders, but not for safety". The same data also invalidates this claim. Add up the numbers from the FBI's statistics on each variable, and compare them yourself. Third, "Guns kill many more innocent people than guilty people." On what possible basis? And, if so, isn't this actually an argument for concealed carry, so that the weapons are used by responsible citizens against criminals, rather than criminals against helpless victims?
  
  Reply
- March 27, 2009 by Jackie Turner
  
  I believe you are underestimating women, but as a mother, I know for a fact that I could never accidentally kill my baby. The men and women that "accidentally" kill their children are most likely psychologically unstable and doing it intentionally through pure selfishness. A mother's instinct is far more powerful than our tendencies to act out an "oops" of such a large extremity. You say in the event of being attacked by someone with a gun and not having one yourself would not help. That's ludicrous. Wouldn't you want to fight someone of your own size rather than someone ten times beefier or stronger than you? What if us mothers might rather die before our children do? This brings me to my point: if I had a gun and someone attacked me with one too, no matter how fast he shot, I would shoot just as fast, if not faster. And If I died at the same time as the attacker it would not matter because my baby could live. It's not about being scared, either. It's that America is going downhill as far as people losing all sense of morals and compassion. More and more people are realizing they could care less about others and more about themselves. This leads to hurting others by attacks and even murders. I don't see this on the news I live this in reality.
  
  Reply
- April 9, 2009 by J J
  
  You need to grow up, and get some facts. “Mothers with guns” is an excellent Idea, not only an excellent Idea but it should be a law. Next time you think you’re doing the world a favor by getting rid of guns just look up Kennesaw Ga, they have a mandatory gun law there were every household has to own a gun their crime has plummeted with no murders by guns and they were rated in the top ten best places to raise a family. I know that that may rock your world but that is based on facts, maybe you should go get a gun and teach not only yourself to use it but everyone around you including children. That is the only way to make a safer world.
  
  Reply
- May 12, 2009 by J. D. Zahn
  
  I know that this lady means well and is a good person. We all would like to guarantee her and her children a safe and secure way of life. Not realistic though. I'm sorry but that is not possible.Too many thugs are just waiting for the opportunity to take advantage of defenseless people in their homes as well as unarmed citizens wherever they are.Take a concealed license course. Learn to use a weapon. Children can be taught to respect guns and are teachable. Unarmed homes are protected by homeowners with guns. Thugs just aren't sure who is prepared and who isn't so they can't just pick any home with safety. Also get an alarm system. This can also be a big deterrent to burglars and rapist.
  
  Reply
- May 19, 2009 by Hugh J Gaudreau
  
  Ty you are so in the wrong here. Guns can cause some trouble true but responsible moms want something with some more oomph than a taser or mace and do more research before you judge handgun owners.
  
  Reply
- May 21, 2009 by marco ramirez
  
  The truth and facts. Guns don't kill, people do! For the same respect why we as a nation have supported our own to enforce living standards with these tools of death. No, it's prevalent anyone would assume and readily point the finger willingly and irrationally! The maker Glock, has a known psychology for safety with their weapons.Trigger finger off the trigger, safety is on. Finger on the trigger, safety is off! These guns have no safety! Yet, it is a popular choice for military and law enforcement today! I own a Glock! The mind-set is what should be blamed for crimes-today. Sad but true, humans are evil beings and truely sick! No one is really healthy, just conformed! The truth is, in these days, we are now faced with having to come to such terms of preservation! When you really think about it, guns are only "souped-up sling shots"! I believe, responsibility is the culprit of our falters and yet, we have cloaked this reasoning to blame and mislead us from true fault! Really, what do you do with a gun? You aim and point to hit a target, just like darts or with a bow and arrow, and so on. There is nothing sick, about a mother wanting to preserve the safety of herself and her child. However, an irresponsible mother is something we easily deem to be a sick thing! Would you not agree?
  
  Reply
- May 29, 2009 by ron
  
  You are so wrong. The world is full of creeps that want to do you wrong. That's why we have jail overcrowding. They want to steal your property and take your money.Ask any cop on the beat. It is not his job to protect you, it is his job to investigate the crime after it happened.
  
  Reply
- June 7, 2009 by Scott Cra
  
  Who are you trying to fool? Last year there were over 80,000,000 guns bought legally in the US and out of that only about .01% (8,000) actually ended up being involved in a crime or death. Less than 3% (240) of them ended up in death. There were more suicides from over doses, hangings and knife wounds than guns. There were over 50,000 deaths from auto crashes in the US, 1,003 in Va. alone so let’s be real out of 300 million people gun deaths are a lot more rare than suicides or auto crashes.
  
  Reply
- July 6, 2009 by James Fletcher
  
  Statistics can be found, or created by funding your own studies like the Brady Campaign does, to back up any argument. Brady is highly biased. You would probably say the same thing about the NRA and you'd be right. They are biased towards individual freedom, but they don't have to lie to prove their point. Many of the "children" Brady includes in their statistics are actually teen gang members shot by competing gangs. Since you seem to believe statistics I'll give you one may not believe. Based on a study by the U.S. Dept. of Justice, people who spend the time and money to get a concealed weapons permit are proven to be the most law abiding segment of the population. That includes police officers. That's right; permit holders commit fewer crimes than police officers. When you use "I simply don’t believe people should have to resort to carrying guns" as your main argument, you show you don't have an argument, just wishful thinking. There are violent people in the world and it's better to dial 911 with one hand while keeping a firm grip on your gun with the other. A gun is simply a tool that is only as dangerous as the person holding it. Just like driving a car, a person needs training in its safe use and storage. Do you have insurance on your car? I hope so. Do you plan to have an accident? I'm sure you don't but you have insurance anyway. Carrying a gun is the same thing. Better to have one and not need it than need it and not have one. Just ask the woman in Texas that had to watch her parents shot to death and could do nothing to protect them because the law said she had to leave her pistol in the car when they went into a restaurant. A mother, properly trained and carrying a gun, is simply taking responsibility for her safety and the safety of her children. She has my respect. You, madam, do not.
  
  Reply
- July 23, 2009 by Tina M
  
  I would like to see statistics in reference to your first two sentences. If a gun owner is responsible and locks up their guns and educates their children they shouldn't be using their guns inappropriately.
  
  Reply
- July 26, 2009 by benben
  
  All of you anti gun people out there need to realize its not the guns, its the lack of knowledge about guns and uninformed individuals that are causing the problems, What if someone would attack you? Think about that!
  
  Reply
- July 29, 2009 by w.d.allen
  
  It's easier to carry a Glock than a 200 pound cop
  
  Reply
- July 31, 2009 by Patricia Thurmond
  
  Women should carry a gun; but only after she has spent many trips to, and hours at the gun shooting range with an instructor, and has become very proficient in hitting where she aims. She should have no fear of her gun once she knows and understands it. Get your permit and keep it current. A body holster is the best method of carrying. If a surprise purse-snatcher grabs your purse and runs, well there goes your gun!! A properly fitted holster should not move or ride up when you draw your weapon. An assailant pointing a gun at you is not looking for a prayer meeting or ice cream social. He is there to hurt you. Rape is not a sexual affair or encounter. Rape is a very cruel and brutal beating where great harm is inflicted and sometimes torture by a maniac assailant. Fact: Media only reports about 1 to 2% of crimes. This is for many reasons, as police reports taken during and after the daily Media phone calls to individual precincts to get information on crimes committed that day. By the next day when media phones precinct (s) they may have a very large back log of crime reports. Because of TV news limited time and newspapers limited space, only a few are reported. I do not believe in fear. It is just a word which is evil and paralyzing. If attacked, do not allow adrenalin to take you over. React instead. There will be time to fall apart once the incident is over. When installing a burglar alarm, make sure that it will be audible exteriorly. Don’t forget to set it when home alone. Alarms are good but don’t allow it to cause you a false sense of security. Sometimes a cop is a block away when your alarm sounds. Get 911 on the phone to coordinate his arrival. If a cop hears the alarm he will be at your home before the alarm is phoned in to police by the alarm co. If the cop is 5 miles away when he receives the call, it will take him a few minutes to arrive. This is not the time to check the outside of your home while carrying a gun, since the officer does not know if you are the homeowner or the burglar/intruder. If intruder gains entry before police arrive make sure you can see that he is not a uniformed officer, before you shoot. Make sure he is not a family member before you shoot. Most assailants will back down once he sees you have an equalizer.
  
  Reply
- November 10, 2009 by Cindi Cappuccilli
  
  Wow! I found this site by accident? I have a very important story that a few of the people out there that believe moms should not carry guns might find interesting. My husband and I have always been very interested in guns. We find that it has been a great hobby and past time that can be used as great family quality time. I was 8 months pregnant with my first child. My husband and I had many long conversations regarding whether to keep guns in our home as I was having my first child. I had came home for lunch from work one day and any women that has ever had a child knows that the first thing you do is use the restroom. I went in through the back door and went directly to the restroom, while in there I heard a noise so I immediately pulled out my 357 S&W that I always carried on my person. My husbands work moved us around quite a bit throughout the western United Stated and not always in the greatest of cities. As I came out of the restroom with my loaded gun the persons robbing our home decided to just leave taking with them my pillow case and other loaded pistols and rifles. Had I not had that loaded gun things could have gone quite differently. As these people looked as though they would have shot me just for the pillow case. To this day I carry a concealed weapon on my person at all times. There have only been a few occasions that I have needed to pull my gun as the common rule is never pull a gun unless you are prepaired to use it. Each of these situations have been the last resort and were only to protect myself and my children. We have spent many hours at shooting ranges and hunting, These activities have kept my family very close and it not like that is all we do. We boat, camp, hunt, fish etc. my children are now 31, 21, and 18, my grandchildren are 8, 6, and 2. All but the two year old are very adept with a gun from loading, unloading, cleaning and shooting. From a young age each of these children were made very aware of what a gun is capable of doing except the 2 year old of course. As my shildren grew older the biggest concern we had was other children coming into our home, however our children always followed the rule that they called to make sure everything was locked up or put away to avoid any accidents. What I find the most sad is there are alot of people that are either un-educated enough to try to take away the 2nd amendment on the United States. Or from the bloggs they are just so unhappy with their lives they want to criticize others without correct facts. QUOTE: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. Most of these women that are carrying a weapon have gone through classes to be the most safe they can and are usualy adept with a weapon. I know in my heart that on two occasions having a gun on my persons has saved my life so that I may enjoy the time my family spends in the wilderness shooting. The people that are most dangerious with guns are not the mothers, fathers, sons, daughters that follow the laws but the thugs that are going to purchase guns no matter what they have to do to get them or what laws are passed and put into affect. They are the reasons that a mother/grandmother like myself carry a gun. With High Regards Mother/Grandmother gun carrier
  
  Reply
- November 25, 2009 by Jason
  
  I wholeheartedly support any individual of legal and moral standing in exercising their second amendment rights and taking the responsibility for their own protection and that of those whom they love. It is true that merely having a gun is not enough and so I hope that these people regularly practice as if not it should be known that you may only be half as good if that under stress as you are at your best day of practice. That said the title of my post applies to all those who believe that the police etc will be there for you - yes you are right but only after the fact - sorry when posed with that scenario I'd much prefer to have the coroner pick up the scumbags body than mine or my family.As far as the media is concerned yes, they are sensationalist but that's because what sells and the "sheep" baaahhh for. Regarding less than lethal alternatives - good luck on a windy day with pepper spray or foam or air horn for that matter. As for burglar alarms - what's the response time for your police department - u don't know ? Ask the guy robbing you who knows how long he has before he has to go ignoring your alarm - while it might detour some, if you have something they want they will get it - period. The only way to prevent that and harm to you or your family is to put three well placed rounds through him right there and then - two to center mass and one to the head. For those that carry - keep up your skills practice, practice, practice get some training. Bottom line God bless all regardless of your opinion on this topic and hopefully we'll never have to be faced with that decision - but if we are may we be prepared. Don't fear guns, fear the criminals, punish them - not the victims, and flip the switch on those that are beyond rehabilitation ; it's called capital punishment for a reason not delayed appeal decision intermittent care - quit wasting my tax dollars.
  
  Reply
- November 27, 2009 by Scott Mulledy
  
  It is an individuals right to protect themselves and there family..It is also their responsiblity to keep them out of the hands of children....just as there are dangerous parents who don't buckle thier kids in while driving.. Having a weapon does not put holders on edge either it has an calming effect.. anti gun advocates always think that gun owner are looking for trouble...on the contrary most would only use the weapon to exit the situation..Not be a John Wayne... But I will never be the one begging on my knee for some dirt wad not to kill me
  
  Reply
- December 9, 2009 by ray
  
  i hope that if you are ever in a place that it is life or death for you or yours the cops can get there in time to help you if you watch the news you know the odds of them making it there in time is not good but good luck with that and keep your phone with you at all times and know right where you are at at all time this will help them get there faster to help you if you ever need it
  
  Reply
- December 26, 2009 by Joe Kennedy
  
  If you do not wish to defend yourself or your family ,that’s fine, but please refrain from criticizing those that wish to be self empowered.
  
  Reply
- January 31, 2010 by Cynthia Dittman
  
  I am commenting on the following quote: "Mothers with guns will more likely end up killing their kids with it than saving them. Most of the time when guns are purchased for protection, they end up being used in suicides, homicides or murders, but not for safety." Show me the statistics and I might consider your points. However, you cannot show the statistics because neither of the above comments are true. They are typical hyper-reaction mode statements made by people who think that we can sit down with any adversary and talk it out. Opinionated comments without basis are worthless.
  
  Reply
- March 29, 2010 by Jon
  
  I can not believe how ignorant and misleading your comment is, it is totally false. As a self defense instructor, military veteran and with over 17 years in protective service, I can say you are completely misguided and not at all connected to reality. This is shameful, you have a right to an opinion but not a false and misleading one that jeopardizes those whom don't know better. Seek another hobby please.
  
  Reply
July 31, 2008 by Matt

Jane Smith and Ty, do you have the statistics you quote? I have firearms in the house and my children (5 and 1) know it. My 5 year old knows gun safety and shoots with me often. We enjoy shooting as a hobby, and the home protection comes second. Responsible firearms ownership means not hiding things from the children. My wife knows how to shoot, but does not. I respect her for that choice, just as I respect the mothers who responsibly carry a firearm.

Reply
July 31, 2008 by Jane smith

Please see some facts below. Please note that these are direct facts from bradycampagin.org and are cited from national studies: In 2005, 1,972 children and teenagers were murdered with guns, 822 committed suicides with guns, and 173 died in unintentional shootings. Twenty-one were killed in a police intervention, and another 39 died, but the intent was not known. A total of 3,027 young people were killed by firearms in the U.S. Firearms are the second-leading cause of death (after motor vehicle accidents) for young people 19 and under in the U.S. The rate of firearm death of under 14-years-old is nearly 12 times higher in the U.S. than in 25 other industrialized countries. 43% of households with children have guns, and 23% of gun households keep a gun loaded. 28% keep a gun hidden and unlocked. 54% of parents said that they would be highly concerned about their child's safety if they knew there was a gun in the home of their child's friend.

Reply
- August 1, 2008 by Tom Burnett
  
  Your source is incorrect, simply by virtue of common sense. If 43% of households with children have firearms, and the firearms are the second leading cause of death (with your caveats), then there ought to be a lot more deaths than you list. In point of fact, people locking their kids into cars and going into malls, or running over them with cars, or losing them somewhere, or letting them drink the stuff under the sink, or beating them to death because they cry, or letting them go out in the yard to play with the pit bull, or talking on the phone and then noticing them at the bottom of the pool or trying to change their diaper and rolling them out the window, or born and left in dumpsters ....let's lump it together and call it household accidents...are the most common causes of death of children. With teenagers, it's impaired driving. If you don't want a firearm in your home, by all means don't have one. Kitchen knives are the preferred murder weapons within families anyway. But don't tell me that guns cause accidents. As of July 1, 2008, heart disease was the leading cause of death for ALL Americans ages 24 and older - almost 725,000 every year (source: Ban the Ban’s Ten Leading Causes of Death in the USA). How they made it to 24 with a gun in the house boggles the mind. What does that tell you? Instead of going to the shooting range and learning to enjoy the outdoors and be safe with firearms, kids are smoking dope, doing drugs and eating fast food....but you would be concerned if your kid's friend's parent had a firearm? Almost TWO MILLION civilians prevent violent crimes against themselves or someone else annually by owning a firearm. "Civilians" doesn't include police officers. I will let you research the statistics of how many women and children are raped and tortured and murdered every year because they couldn't protect themselves, but almost NONE of them are shot. If you want your neighbors' children to feel safe in your home, you ought to put up a sign out front that says, "There are no firearms in this home. I trust that the government will SEND someone with a gun, in the middle of a dark, rainy night; that the officer will not nave a mechanical breakdown, will be less than two minutes away, and will arrive with the complete knowledge of the situation (the 9-1-1 dispatcher will tell him "Woman screaming; call dropped; unknown further), and that he will be able to save me." Get a book called 'Dial 9-1-1 and die". Madame, your case for not having a firearm in your home applies, more correctly and statistically, to kitchen implements, stairs and slippery floors. The bottom line is that the government has no responsibility for protecting any individual, or even responding to 9-1-1 calls. It's a service, not an obligation. Some humans are predators; some are simply irresponsible. Gun owners are typically the most responsible people in society. The occasional exception does not invalidate the premise of personal responsibility.
  
  Reply
  - February 25, 2009 by Sally Jane
    
    Thank you for bringing some common sense to the situation!
  - May 7, 2009 by Bob Glock
    
    Tom, your line of reasoning and rationale is right on the money. Jane does have a different perspective and clearly is an anti-gun advocate. It is my belief that her life experiences are gained from what she reads and hears and her 'filters' have a bias that in my judgement are unfortunate. Responsible gun owners, including those with children in their homes, will have a far better chance at survival from the 'bad guys' in our society who will never follow the law -- but only seek to make those like Jane a tragic victim. I respect her opinion and wish her well--she will need some luck in the world in which we live. The rest of us will rely less on luck and more on good marksmanship and having that firearm close at hand when the bad guys want another victim. I have never used my gun in the many 'large cities' that I too have lived in, but I can assure you I have displayed it numerous times when I was about to be accosted on the streets of San Francisco when simply returning from a play or concert in the dark evening hours when the street scum (always in pairs) were looking for an easy robbery. They only changed their minds when looking down the barrel of a .40 cal Glock pistol with my stern warning they were about to die. I fortunately never (so far) had to fire that weapon under those circumstances, but I was ready and willing to do so. I know the law and would only shoot in self defense of my life or someone elses and I assure you I shoot often enough that there would be no danger to any bystanders, except the guy who that laser dot was resting on. Don't rely on luck, hope or your fears Jane--be able to protect yourself or your loved ones. I too have faith in our police--but they will not be in your back pocket when that scum sucker decides you will be his next target of some horrific crime. You are both respectful, law abiding people (presumably) but someday you might thank a person--who also knows he/she has a 2nd amendment right to have and use a firearm to protect themself or you. Glockman
  - May 21, 2009 by marco ramirez
    
    Thanks, Tom. It is refreshing to hear the sounds of rationality and intelligence!
  - March 25, 2010 by Rhyzome Wolf
    
    Tom, you probably think that guns don't kill people, people do, but the reality is that America has the highest number of deaths related to guns every year than any other country on the planet! Most of these deaths are accidents and many of them are caused by the very gun that the victim bought to protect themselves with. Mothers shouldn't carry guns, what if one day they go out when their kids are teenagers and leave there gun at home? One teen says to the other, "Hey wanna see my mom's gun?" other teen says sure, they fool around with it and BAM! One of the kids ends up with a bullet hole in his/her body.I've known kids who've died like that Tom, and it's all because the mom thought that they could protect their family with a gun. Guns kill people.
- March 23, 2009 by jim
  
  I trust you are aware that the Brady figures lump gangbangers into the total figures for teenagers? Street gangs shooting each other up are hardly the same as mothers and infants. Perhaps a comparison to Mexico, and the percentage of those under 20 included in the 4000+ deaths in the last year due to the drug war, is in order?
  
  Reply
- April 29, 2009 by Mark Frederick
  
  I cannot believe people saying that guns kill all these people every year. I have several and not once has one of them attacked me. WAKE UP: PEOPLE KILL PEOPLE NOT GUNS! And to think one law abiding citizen on each plane that went down on 9-11 with a 38 and guess what: 9-11 would not have happened! I can’t believe people can be so dense when it comes to guns. It’s easy to tell who has never owned a gun or shot a gun. It’s not like TV.
  
  Reply
- May 22, 2009 by Crassus
  
  Just because people are accidently shot by guns does not mean it is a bad idea to own one for self defense. People die when they attempt to exit the bathtub. Should we outlaw bathtubs? The stats from Australia tell us the real story. Thanks to Ravena for providing that. Take a gun safety course. Buy a gun. By two guns! It is your right as an American and always will be.
  
  Reply
- July 3, 2009 by Andrew
  
  It seems to me that your argument would say that irresponsible parenting is to blame. If a parent takes the proper precautions and teaches their children the proper way to handle guns, then they would avoid these problems. Guns aren’t the problem, the misuse of them is.
  
  Reply
- July 22, 2009 by Mam Loui
  
  In 2005, 1,972 children and teenagers were murdered with guns: The Brady Bunch failed to mention how many of these children and teenagers are gang members that die at the hands of other gang members who also carry unregistered firearms. Evidently some people may be removed from the inner cities and even the rest of the world.
  
  Reply
- July 24, 2009 by eh
  
  Of course the bradycampaign.org is going to make the statistic favor their movement.
  
  Reply
- October 8, 2009 by Evil Monk
  
  Interesting numbers Jane. Let's see here, the population of the United States is appx. 307 million. The average per annum of children killed by guns is... Well, as you can see without grabbing a calculator, all the numbers (3,027) you quote is infinitesimal compared to the big picture. Consider also this: If, as you say, 43% of all American homes have guns, but only 995 (suicides and unintentional shootings combined) were the "victims" of these guns, that is a good record. That is a better record than most cities have for homicide per capita. Be careful that you do not fall victim to the evil form of thinking that is based upon "The actions of the few dictate the treatment of the many".
  
  Reply
- December 11, 2009 by Chuck
  
  Ms. Smith where exactly did those statistics come from?
  
  Reply
  - December 31, 2009 by Chuck `
    
    Cut and paste this address in your browser and get the REAL STORY! http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/2009prelimsem/table_1.html
  - December 31, 2009 by Chuck
    
    Crime in all categories has steadily decreased with the adoption of Concealed Carry rights in virtually all states. My point? Simply that criminals are cowards and do not want to encounter an armed opponent. As the odds of encountering an armed opponent increases crime decreases. If gang banggers were locked up and the key thrown away violent crime would hit record lows. However, the anits would rather punish all law abiding gun owners than do away with criminals. I do have some small amount of experience in the arena. U. S. Army Military Police (retired)
- March 5, 2010 by James
  
  Those statistics come right out of the anti-gun playbook and they were commissioned by a group that sees victim disarmament as the way to make our nation a wonderful meadow filled with bunnies and flowers were everyone gets along. They didn't tell you that their statistics include all gang wars and drug related felonious acts, etc. Please make sure you are talking about teh good and honorable people of society. Rember this is responsibilityproject. BTW, they surveyed all repeat violent offenders that were in prison if they agree with gun control and 97% of them said "YES". Think about it.
  
  Reply
- March 29, 2010 by Jon
  
  Facts from the Brady campaign???? Are you out of your mind?? An organization that has failed on every front to be factual in any since of the word? That depends on the ignorance and sympathy of it's members to be funded????? WOW, you need to wake up, perhaps you are a member of the organization attempting to solicit funds for your cause.
  
  Reply
- March 29, 2010 by Jon
  
  Facts from the Brady campaign???? Are you out of your mind?? An organization that has failed on every front to be factual in any since of the word? That depends on the ignorance and sympathy of it's members to be funded????? WOW, you need to wake up, perhaps you are a member of the organization attempting to solicit funds for your cause.
  
  Reply
August 1, 2008 by Jane smith

Tom, you have asked me to discuss an issue rationally and in my opinion I think statistics are rational. From your notes, what your common sense tells you is not what my common sense tells me so I think it is safe to say we will agree to disagree! I don't think you’re wrong, I am sure there are many responsible gun owners and that people have protected themselves with firearms but an individual with a gun in their home is more likely to have a gun related accident then a home with no guns. I stand by my opinion. I had a request from another writer to provide some statistics for my opinion and I did. I did not make up the statistics or change them based on my opinion - I noted my source, so if you believe that the statistics are wrong I would recommend checking out the Brady campaign directly. Please know I am not an advocate of getting rid of guns or the right for people to own them, however, I simply don't believe people should have to resort to carrying guns around on a daily basis to protect themselves or should keep guns in a house with children unless they are extremely secure. I will mention I do not believe it is a polite way to make a point by assuming someone else’s opinions on items that they have not commented on - I also don't think kids should be eating fast food, smoking dope or doing drugs either. I think they should join a sports team and enjoy a healthy life style and as you stated you think they should go to the shooting range. So again, we have to agree to disagree. I have lived in two of the biggest cities in the US in the last five years and the majority of crime I hear about always has to do with gun violence- especially amongst teens, so we clearly have different perspectives. So while I don't agree with all of your opinions, for example I have more faith in our law enforcement officers than "call 9-1-1 and die"; I respect your opinion and ask that you also respect mine. Thank you.

Reply
- March 9, 2009 by Henzel
  
  People who have scissors in the home have more scissor related accidents than people who don't have scissors. You see how the logic is flawed there. I am also sure that the Brady campaign has very good numbers and has very good reasons, but if one of my friends was murdered or maimed by an ice pick, I could come up with all kinds of official sounding numbers to support my position of ice pick in the house = death. Using an organizations numbers who are bent on getting rid of all legal guns is not a fair representation of the facts or the statistics.
  
  Reply
- April 5, 2009 by joe elliott
  
  I have been packing for 10 years I have two kids 5 and 7 first thing is always gun safety now for me. I know safest place for my gun are on me. If my gun is on me, it’s not being used to shoot anyone and in the event I need it, it’s there and ready. I even carry it in my home now that said. when I sleep its next to me on my night stand in a finger print release lock box that will only let me or my wife open it and it is super fast to get to when or if needed it will never be used to harm anyone without me knowing because. I will not let that happen Jane speaks of the owners that are not responsible gun owners when it comes to gun safety but I’m there. In 10 years I have pulled my gun one time it was to stop a rape in a good area in broad daylight did not have to shoot but was ready to that woman now carries a gun and I see her at the range from time to time. If you don’t think there are bad people in the world you need to pull your head out of the sand and look around, lots of good people but there are bad ones too. Guns equal responsibly if your not 100% up to that every day challenge, don’t have a gun. But if you are, then I sleep better at night knowing that the people can take care of there families. Any one can find stats that support what ever there point is but a smart person gets the fact even from sites that they don’t agree with. It’s your right to own a gun; it’s your right to protect your family. If you can protect your family with out a gun that’s great but I don’t see how it takes just a few seconds for a robber to kill you or your kids and where I live in the city, it takes 20 min for the cops to arrive so they can bag up the dead bodies and write a report. I’ll worry about taking care of it myself but that me. NRA member and CCP gun owner Thanks for reading. Did this on my PDA.
  
  Reply
- April 14, 2009 by gene
  
  I think that you are crazy not to have a weapon in your home for protection! I live in a small community that is within 2-3 hours of several large cities. While this does not pose a large threat in itself, I do have a large amount of drugs and violent criminals that pass through the area. My community has a large number of breaking and enterings, assaults, and drugs. Though it does not appear to be an extremely violent place, you never know when it may trickle into your area. As for the safety of having guns in your house, I believe that it is the owners responsibility to secure the weapon. I think that a criminal might think twice about mugging someone or breaking into a house If the gun laws were more relaxed and they knew there was a greater chance of a gun being in the house or on a person. I respect the fact that some people do not like guns, but don't ruin it for everyone else. Besides that, the bad guys WILL get guns no matter what laws are in place!
  
  Reply
- April 21, 2009 by Jim Noland
  
  Good dialog folks - I would like to take the opportunity to discuss some statistics in brief. I don't use stats from the NRA or the Brady folks because they both have agendas and tend to bend things a little. The latest stats from the CDC - National Vital Statistics report details the following: In 2005 (the latest year compiled): Total number of people killed by accidental discharge of firearms - 789 Children under the age of 15 killed by accidental firearm discharge -75 Total number of suicides with a gun under the age of 15 - 84 Number of people who drown - 3,582 Number of children under 15 who drown - 810 Number of children under 15 killed in car accidents - 2210 So if you can digest the statistics impartially you can see that claims of some wide spread "epidemic" of children being killed with guns is completely false. There is no statistical evidence to support the claim. Of course one death is one too many but overall the number of children killed with guns is less of a crisis than children drowning or being killed in auto accidents. Reference: Center for Disease Control - National Vital Statistics Report 2005 - http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr56/nvsr56_10.pdf In 1997 the Department of Justice issues a research brief entitled "Guns in America: National Survey on Private Ownership and Use of Firearms". In this brief there is detailed discussion on the use of firearms for defensive purposes. The low end of the analysis spectrum of citizens who use a firearm to defend themselves, their family or otherwise thwart a crime per year, is about 100,000 times. The high end of the spectrum in studies performed by Florida State University professors Gary Kleck and Mark Gertz has the number closer to 2.5 million times per year. Even if we use the very conservative low end analysis you are statistically more likely to use or know someone who has used a weapon defensively than someone who is accidently killed by a gun. Remember you don't necessarily have to discharge a weapon to protect yourself. Often times a criminal will turn and run as soon as they realize you have a firearm. Hope this helps shed some light on the subject. Regards, Jim
  
  Reply
- June 11, 2009 by Ray
  
  As the son of a police officer (with 11 more in my immediate family) and a federal prosecutor (with two more immediate family, 3 state in immediate family) and numerous friends in both law enforcement and the military, I feel safe in saying that the problem is not with LEGAL gun owners committing murder or responsible adults causing deaths. What we always see is this: criminals (people who do not care about the law) and sociopaths (people who do not care about hurting others) tend to be the people committing violent crimes. Parents who keep guns in their homes are the responsible ones, those who do not are the only ones to blame when someone breaks in and their child is injured. The average response time to a 911 call in America ranges from 8 to 26 minutes (fire departments usually arrive first, so call and report a fire instead of an intruder). Not everyone can afford to hire round the clock gun carrying bodyguards for their children at and average cost of $120,000 per guard per year plus health insurance and pension. Most parents can afford a handgun (average cost $550), training class (cost $80), ammunition ($20) and a trigger lock ($12).
  
  Reply
- July 25, 2009 by Morgan fay
  
  C'mon Jane, of course you increase the risk of gun deaths in the home if you have one there. Just as you increase the chance of burning your house down if you have a fireplace, or suffering water damage from a flood if you live near a river levee. These are examples of calculated risks that we all make every day. The risk of being killed on the highway doesn't stop you from driving does it? We must weigh the pros and cons of every decision we make, there is a risk assessment to EVERYTHING... The risk of a gun related death in the home is much lower compared to the mere possibility of an armed or unarmed assailant entering your home or place of business with the intention of doing harm to you or your family, much less the theft of personal property. I have grown up with firearms in the home, and I certainly possess them in mine as well. My wife and kids are trained in the use and safe keeping of them; I trust my family with my safety and vice versa. There has NEVER been an accidental discharge or an incident of firearm mismanagement ever in my home or with anybody whom I know. Your "statistics" are wrong and misleading. I hate to say it, but you will have to suffer some sort of incident in order to open your eyes. Most people at large are good folks who follow the law and appreciate life and personal safety. It's that one percent that can change your life forever, and no amount of law enforcement can prevent those who are hell bent on harming you and your family. Personal protection is a right, not a privilege.
  
  Reply
- July 29, 2009 by w.d.allen
  
  In all due respect the Brady organization is a close ally of many anti gun groups. check the FBI statistics. the violent crimes are down because of the right to carry. fact.
  
  Reply
- September 1, 2009 by David Faltot
  
  Jane, I am with law enforcement in our local town and I will tell you that 90% of the time, the police will be there AFTER THE FACT. I do agree that anyone who owns a gun should be well trained and practiced and I do not agree with someone buying a gun, loading it, putting it in a drawer and never touching it again. That is a recipe for disaster. But loading a gun in a high stress situation is usually not possible, even if you are trained. You will have an adrenalin dump that will eliminate your fine motor skills. You will not be able to load a gun in an emergency because your hands will be shaking. The alternative is to have a loaded gun in a safe place in the home that children cannot reach. Secondly, everyone in the home should be familiar with guns and safety (including children over 7). Third, the adults in the home should train regularly, especially with an automatic pistol as opposed to a revolver.
  
  Reply
- December 10, 2009 by Chuck
  
  Well Jane It apperas to me that the statistics you are reading are published by the anti gun crowd. What you need to review are the UCR stats (Uniform Crime Report) published annually by the FBI. These stats clearly show that in states where concealed cary is legally allowed violent crime has dropped significantly without the "dodge city" syndrome that most nay sayers claim will happen. As a retired Law Enforcement officer I can tell you that we used to have very mean folks in this country! They would even fight with the police although most would never dream of trying to take an officers gun or using their own weapon on an armed officer. Sadly this is no longer the case. The mean folks have been replaced by STUIPD people, most of whom are on some sort of drugs, either legal or illegal, and will do ANYTHING to get the money they need to fix their habbit. NOw, in general, they don't have guns. THey pawned them long ago for a fix but what they do have access to are other weapons. Look around you your house if full of weapons that can be turned against you or another family member. Kitchen knives (personally I would rather be shot that have my belly opened by some idiot with a knife), baseball bats that tree limb that fell outa the tree in the front yard, your dining chair, a dog leash makes a wonderful garot, THe table lamp beside your bed makes an excellent bludgeon. In short ANYTHING and EVERYTHING that some moron can pick up and cause you severe bodily harm that is now in your home. The world is becoming an increasingly dangerous place and anyone who does not feel the need to protect their life and property is living in a dream world that really never existed. Talk to folks who have BEEN VICTIMS most now own firearms and have taken it upon themselves to become proficient in the care and handling. It's not an emotional issue as some would have you believe. We kill far more people every year with motor vehicles than were killed in the entire Viet Nam war. I'd lots rather dodge a bullet than a car and I have dodged BOTH. Responsible gun ownership is a right laid out in the constitution and upheld by the supreme court. A very wise man once said "A man without a gun is a SUBJECT, a man with a gun is a CITIZEN" of course the phrase meant both men and women but back in the 1770's folks refered to the citizenry as "men" which was an all inclusive term.
  
  Reply
- March 14, 2010 by jim c
  
  Dear lady you are clearly very uneducated about gun stats , if you are going by the gun hating, gun control Brady bunch ,I suggest you check with the F.B.I. stats. You may find out that what these very rich not so honest folks are saying is totally without base and also most of their stats are done with very small groups of very bad people.We the people who carry guns everyday, who most of you do not know, are in , the stores with you and your family, at breakfast places, most everywhere we are allowed , are checked out very well by the F.B.I ,national and local law enforcement, fingerprinted and back ground checked and trained to use a weapon for our safety and possibly yours,also my dear we are held to the same standard that law enforcement is when it come to the use of deadly force and we understand these laws very well , so sleep good tonight knowing that someone , since you choose not to get your gun license will be there to protect you and your kids if you should ever need it and the police most of the time are 5 to 10 minutes from helping at best. Suggestion, DO YOUR HOMEWORK BEFORE BELIEVING ONE GROUP OF WINKLED UP GUN HATERS.Have a good day and also I do respect your opinion ,but get your facts straight first.
  
  Reply
- July 27, 2010 by bill holloway
  
  Please advise me that if I don't own or carry a gun, how do I protect myself and my family in a home invasion. One happened in our neighborhood just two days ago - and this is an upscale hi-class neighborhood. Three people in the home almost got themselves killed, by having no defence. If you kill the bad guys they won't do bad again.
  
  Reply
August 2, 2008 by Matt

Jane, thank you for providing your source and elaborating. You say "an individual with a gun in their home is more likely to have a gun related accident then a home with no guns” I agree, but you can also say that a child is more likely to drown at a house with a pool, than without. Statistics exist for just about everything. To counter your stats from the Brady campaign, I have found some pro-firearms statistics. Kennesaw, GA passed a law requiring heads of households to possess a firearm to protect the safety, security and general welfare of the city and its inhabitants. Since the ordinance became law, crime has declined 89% in Kennesaw while only declining 10% statewide. States with the largest increases in gun ownership also have the largest drops in violent crimes, based on data for all 3,054 counties in the United States during 18 years from 1977 to 1994. It is important to note that since 1991, the number of states that have Right To Carry (RTC) concealed weapon laws has increased from 17 to 36 and the percentage of the U.S. population that lives in RTC states has doubled to nearly 60 percent. This has led to a 12 consecutive year decrease to a 26-year low in all categories of violent crime? (FBI statistics). Americans defend themselves with firearms roughly 2.5 million times per year. The statistics are there for every angle of the discussion. I exercise the right to own firearms, and I respect those who wish not to. Tom, I don't believe that Jane is trying to say that no one should own a firearm. She is showing statistics she has found, and agrees with. While this is a conversation that will never reach a single consensus, is one that will continue as long as crimes are being committed. That is the great part of living in this country; we have the ability to debate these matters, and can enjoy our own opinion.

Reply
August 2, 2008 by Bea Jones

The police are just minutes away!" I have been carrying a Lady Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver ever since I was driving by myself at night on a two lane road and three men in a BMW with no tags tried to run me off of the road... for seven miles they harassed me, no cop in sight. When I got to the (closed) convenience store, they whipped around me and parked at the phone booth! Two weeks later, I was "armed and dangerous"; a convertible with four men attempted to run me off the road again. Again, no cops anywhere - but they made the fastest u-turn I'd ever seen when I pulled out that revolver and aimed it at them! I didn't have to shoot. And that is what most people don't realize - most times, just the threat of a higher-scaled violence is enough to frighten off most would be attackers. Yes I carry and yes I will shoot and yes I know how... it was something my father insisted on. Not only that, but for my 25-year-old daughter's birthday, we bought her a 9mm Glock and membership in a gun club. No one messes with the women in our family period. When I am at home, my revolver is right next to my head at all times... one noise and I'm up and walking the house. When I travel, I carry it in my vehicle, right next to me. When I'm walking, it is in my purse - and yes I will shoot right thru a perfectly good purse. The police can't be everywhere, all they can do is take reports or chase a criminal AFTER he has done something to someone. I will never again be listed as a "victim" on any report - nor should any woman. Or any man, for that matter. "Armed Women = Polite Men" may not always be true, but it will save many women a lot of grief.

Reply
- September 23, 2010 by John
  
  YOU GO GIRL
  
  Reply
August 2, 2008 by Tom Burnett

Now I am confused. Your original argument was about children being accidentally shot by firearms in their own homes. Now it has apparently morphed into a discussion of gang-banging. Let's try to stay on the subject you originally broached if we can, please. A house with a gun is more likely to have a gun related accident than one without. Yes, and you are more likely to have an auto accident in an automobile. And more people will get hit by lightning this year than children will die from accidental gunshots. A house with a gun is also much less likely to house the victim of a violent crime. An armed citizen is about an order of magnitude safer than an unarmed one to a predator. I spent my career as a law enforcement officer in LA and I NEVER saw an accidental gun-related death of a child so I speak from experience. I saw a bunch that were beaten to death by a parent, or were killed accidentally in their home, but none by accidental gunshot. I'm sure you see a lot of violence on TV, but I simply do not believe that ALL of the violence you have ever seen on TV is firearms related. MOST violent crimes are NOT firearms related. I would like to know how many stories you saw about children who were accidentally killed by a firearm in their own home, which is what you were originally talking about. Any at all? Although we were serious about protecting the public, we usually didn't arrive in time to stop a crime.....the kind you see on TV. We secured the crime scene until the coroner arrived. That's not opinion. Where I live now, the police are underfunded and may or may not even respond to a call. It's not a matter of faith. Until a crime is occurring, no one calls the police. The officer might have an accident or a flat tire or a prior emergency. They simply may not respond to your call through no fault. I am not trying to sway your opinion. I am merely telling you that you have the final responsibility for your own safety. If you choose to delegate it to a telephone, you are welcome to do so. But you have picked an emotional issue to argue, not a particularly rational one. More children will die this year from reactions to bee stings than firearms in their homes. Do you honestly want to argue the danger of guns versus bees when bees are clearly much more deadly to children? Or would you rather argue that the gang violence you see on TV is somehow caused by parents who own firearms to protect their homes against exactly what you have just described?

Reply
August 2, 2008 by Melodyl

One thing everyone needs to avoid is the lies that the Brady Campaign, and the VPC will spew out. These horrible hate groups are supported by the Joyce Foundation, known for fabricating data to raise money. You cannot believe anything that they post as facts. Remember a gun is nothing more than a machine, that used correctly can save your life and can be part of wonderful sporting activities. Teach your children young to respect them. I have three daughters all in their late 20’s now. All have shot their entire lives, never an accident all are concealed carry license holders. Look for the truth - ignore the lies.

Reply

1 2 3 4 5 … 46 »

Tell us what you think.

Let the world know what you think, but please do so responsibly. Comments are moderated and we will not post personal attacks, obscene language or inappropriate material, comments with links, or comments from people under the age of 18. If you have a question, check out our Comment Submission Guidelines.

Find More ///

Related ///

Separation Anxiety: On Sending the Kids to Camp

Modern parents favor keeping obsessive tabs on their sleepaway campers. Is it doing more harm than good?

» read more

Fresh Living: Calling In Sick

The ethics of going in to work or staying home.

» Read More

Coverages For Teachers

From vandalism protection for your car parked in the school parking lot to dealing with theft of school materials from your car, Liberty Mutual offers special coverages for teachers – all at no additional cost.

» Learn More

Party Guest

The story of a blind date that starts off promising — but for one major flaw.

Watch Film

A Champion for Homeless Pets

The founder of The Best Friends Animal Society explains the origins of the “no kill movement” and his continued efforts to help homeless animals.

» read more

Tony

Tate Donovan stars in this George Clooney-produced film about recovering a child’s lost teddy bear.

Watch Now

Europe Deems 2014 the Year Against Food Waste

Should we take waste stats more seriously?

» read more

Follow: Share:

About Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual is a provider of auto, home, and life insurance for consumers, as well as risk and disability products and services for businesses. Because responsibility is integral to who we are, we also support a range of community service programs around issues like fire safety and responsible sports. Through the Liberty Mutual Foundation, we make grants to organizations that show low-income students a path to lifelong success through education, and agencies that provide immediate basic health and human services to the needy. To learn more about us, visit us at LibertyMutualGroup.com

The Responsibility Project^®. Exploring what it means to do the right thing

Mothers In Arms

Find More ///

Related ///

Separation Anxiety: On Sending the Kids to Camp

Fresh Living: Calling In Sick

Coverages For Teachers

Party Guest

A Champion for Homeless Pets

Tony

Europe Deems 2014 the Year Against Food Waste

About Liberty Mutual

Topics ///

Sections ///

The Responsibility Project®. Exploring what it means to do the right thing

Mothers In Arms

Find More ///

Related ///

Separation Anxiety: On Sending the Kids to Camp

Fresh Living: Calling In Sick

Coverages For Teachers

Party Guest

A Champion for Homeless Pets

Tony

Europe Deems 2014 the Year Against Food Waste

About Liberty Mutual

Topics ///

Sections ///

The Responsibility Project^®. Exploring what it means to do the right thing