The Positive Impacts of Law-Abiding Citizens Owning Firearms

Gun control is a frequently discussed topic these days. There’s a lot of conversation about regulations, but not a lot about the positive impacts that firearms have on society.

Law-abiding citizens who are sensible gun owners can make for a safer and more confident nation. Unfortunately, it’s those who shouldn’t own these powerful tools in the first place that ruin it for the majority of citizens who exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly. Take a look at some of the beneficial effects of law-abiding citizens owning firearms when you read on here.

Influence on Criminal Behavior

It’s no secret that crime happens in spite of law enforcement. In fact, in some major cities, crime happens even more frequently in areas that are highly concentrated with police. The simple truth is that violent criminals fear armed citizens more than police officers. There are a few reasons for that:

• It takes time for police to respond to a crime — especially in remote rural areas. A law-abiding citizen in the area can often react much quicker when an incident occurs.
• Many civilians are well trained in defending themselves and others, as they are forced to take additional courses and training in order to conceal carry.
• In states where Open Carry is legal, visible weapons can act as a deterrent to potential criminals knowing there will be resistance should they try to commit a violent crime.

A Sense of Safety

Responsible gun owners don’t want to have to use their weapons, but it’s nice to know that they’re available if a last resort situation should occur. People deserve to feel safe and secure in their own homes and in public. The simple fact is that law enforcement can’t be everywhere at once, and in some areas, it can take a significant amount of time to respond to an emergency call.

Owning a firearm empowers the owner to take action to protect loved ones or neighbors in a timely manner — when it matters most. Stable, levelheaded firearm owners can fill the gap that police officers can’t. When push comes to shove, having an armed, law-abiding citizen around can benefit anyone unfortunate enough to require fast assistance.

Shooting Can Be a Rewarding Hobby

Besides the impact on society, shooting guns is a classic hobby and way of life for many law-abiding gun owners. Hunting is an economical and eco-friendly way to provide food for a family. Spending time at the shooting range is a great way to meet like-minded people while refining shooting skills.

Becoming a skilled shooter is a fantastic way to boost self-esteem and confidence, and it can really help gun owners to understand the responsibility that comes with owning such a powerful tool. Shooting doesn’t have to be a disruptive hobby either. There are plenty of silenced weapons that make hunting and target shooting just as unintrusive as any other sport.

Guns Create Jobs

Plenty of passionate gun owners have made firearms a career. There is a massive subculture behind the industry, and enterprising individuals can make an honest living selling products such as handmade gun holsters and rigs for firearms enthusiasts. For many, the gun industry provides a livelihood and allows good people the opportunity to work in a field they genuinely love.

It’s an American Right

American citizens have the right to bear arms. While a citizen uprising is unlikely in these modern times, history has shown that the government wields less power when the people are able to fight back if necessary. If a large-scale conflict should occur, it’s important that American citizens are able to stand together and take necessary action to preserve their personal safety and the safety of their loved ones.

The Takeaway

Good people with guns make the world a better, safer place. It’s the mentally unfit minority that makes headlines. It’s critical that gun owners understand the responsibility and the power that comes with owning a firearm in order to offset the negative attention garnered by people who do not respect the law.

If more law-abiding citizens carried firearms, and those who were deemed unstable or had criminal records didn’t have access to them, the scales would be tipped in the favor of the law-abiding majority. Be the change that you want to see, and show the world that safe gun ownership is entirely possible if the right people continue to use their weapons for their intended purpose.

Author Bio – Alex G Forrester is a content marketing and SEO professional who enjoys the challenge of driving sales through blogging while creating awesome and useful content. In the beginning of 2015, Alex quit his day job and ditched his plan to head to law school all so that he could start and launch his freelance career.  When Alex’s not at work for clients or coaching business owners and solopreneurs on how to start a website and earn money online, he can be found on the beach with his black lab, Louie. Say “hi” to Alex on Twitter!