SuperMidget

Bravo Candide, that was perhaps the most well thought out and eloquent reply I have heard yet for not wanting/owning firearms. Now, if everyone who was against firearms would think like this, a solution would be possible.

I have to disagree on a couple of points, but those are just opinion/bad experieces.

First, no one, unless I trust them with my life (there are about five people in that category) knows where my firearms are. I keep it that way for a reason. I know too many people who have had firearms stolen because people thought the same way you do, and some jackass takes advantage of that. Most people know I have firearms and they know I do not lock them up. If they are uncomfortable with that they can leave. If I absolutely do not trust someone that is around, I will field strip my firearms and keep a piece of it on me.

Right now, I don't have to worry about children, but if/when the time comes I'll have to do what's right by me and safe for them. I'll probably do the same thing my father did for me. I will not hide my firearms. I will introduce the child to them so there is no doubt. If children are exposed to them, they become tools, that are not to be messed with.

I have had a firearm since I was 3 years old. I was always taught respect for them and I have had safety drilled into my head (and sometimes from the other end if I screwed up) for years. Will I never have an accident, I don't know. If it is in my power to stop it, I will not.

In the end, I guess I just feel safer with a firearm. To each his own I guess. Until you start infringing on my rights.