you should have the best tools
There are many wild things said about firearms; people in positions of power (most of which have armed private security) spread ridiculous concerns and thoroughly debunked myths with the result being that normal, everyday people have developed irrational fears that limit their desire to possess the best possible tools for self-defense. We believe that you should have the best tools available and that you should be able to carry those tools with you safely and confidently.
First, everyone who has ever responsibly carried a firearm knows that firearms do not randomly and inexplicably fire–it’s never happened. Second, despite crafty efforts by anti-gun lobbyists to dramatically skew the statistical data, places with the strictest and most enforced gun restrictions are the most dangerous; criminals have guns because they do not follow the law while law-abiding citizens are left defenseless (and criminals know this!). The worst acts of violence occur in gun-free zones and yet those claiming to protect us always immediately demand that you continue to remain defenseless. The data is in, but most people are not privileged to the data; they only give you the skewed reporting. The result of gun myths is the negligence of personal safety. So, here’s the truth: guns are the great equalizer. We do not believe in a fair fight; but this is also because we are not the ones starting the fight.
We know that if a large, strong male lunatic intends harm upon a small (old or young) woman, she will be at an incredible disadvantage regardless of any specialty training. That woman has the right to be able to defend herself with the best tools available, and a firearm (with the most basic training) is the only tool that will change the outcome of that scenario.
Then, we also must know that firearm safety is extremely basic. If you follow a handful of simple rules, you will never have a reason for concern.
1. Treat every gun like it’s loaded. It doesn’t matter how many times you think you have checked, this is not a toy. Also, others around you might not know with certainty that it is unloaded. Most accidents occur because we have allowed ourselves to be negligent and make assumptions; never assume.
2. Always point the gun in a safe direction. Another way of saying this may be more direct: only point the gun at things you want to destroy. Firearms are weapons and should be taken seriously because the consequences are serious. Be mindful of where your gun is pointing.
3. Be sure of your target and what’s behind it. If you use your firearm (hunting, sport shooting, or self-defense) you will only want to hit your intended target. Even the best of shooters miss from time to time and bullets are indiscriminate; bullets travel in whatever direction they are fired. Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Guns will not fire unless you pull the trigger, and the best way to prevent accidental discharge is to not play with the trigger. Only when you are ready to fire should your finger then touch the trigger.
5. Keep your gun in a safe place. It is obviously irresponsible to leave your gun lying around especially when children are or may be present. Store your tools wisely.
If you follow these basic rules, you will be safe, your family will be safe, and you will be able to safely carry a firearm. Then, you will be able to confidently carry the best tools for self-defense.
