Gun Control and Self-Assessment

Every time gun control hits the news, people are arguing over which new laws government needs to dictate. As adults, it is our responsibility first and foremost to assess ourselves. Think of the mote and beam parable before braying for legislation.

If you are considering buying a gun, consider the following questions for yourself first.

1. Are you inclined to drug or alcohol abuse?
2. Do you have a short temper, struggle with road rage, or otherwise tend to create or escalate conflicts?
3. Do you struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts?

These might be warning signs that you have more urgent priorities which need to be addressed first before spending money on a firearm.

Now, consider your circumstances.

1. Do you live with children, or with people who might have their own issues with the above questions? If so, can you secure your firearm so they cannot harm themselves or others?
2. If your firearm is intended for self-defense, especially concealed carry in public, are you at greater risk of harm from law enforcers than lawbreakers?
3. Are you familiar with your local laws regarding use of lethal force in self-defense?

The first point should be common sense. As for the other two, I don't have a lot of respect for legislators, legislation, or law enforcement, but whether their authority is legitimate or not, there is a real threat to be considered, albeit more so in some jurisdictions than others.

Finally, if you are confident after considering those points, it might actually be time to think about a gun. I would suggest visiting a shooting range which rents various guns to try, and take a firearm safety course at the bare minimum. As for what gun to consider, I know nothing about you, your circumstances, or your needs, but I wrote a series on the various types of guns one might consider as a survival or self-defense firearm. Once again, some questions might help you narrow the scope of possibilities to find the best solution for yourself.

1. Is your primary intended purpose hunting, self-defense, competition shooting, or something else?
2. Will you carry your firearm often, and if so, will it be carried openly or concealed?
3. What is your budget, and have you accounted for the various ancillary expenses like tools, cleaning chemicals, training classes, holsters/slings/cases, magazines/clips with associated pouches and carriers, and most of all, ammunition?

The only gun control that works is self-control. Assess your mental state, your situation, and your budget so you can make a wiser decision for yourself instead of waiting for some stranger to make decisions on your behalf with no thought for your needs.