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What are the Pros and Cons of Keeping a Gun for Home Protection?

Lauren Romano
Lauren Romano

While some people may not believe in keeping a gun in the home, those who are considering it should be aware of the pros and cons before making the purchase. From keeping the weapon away from children to having protection from an intruder, there are several aspects that a homeowner must consider. Before buying a gun, a homeowner must review the laws of the area that he or she lives in, and he or she may also be required to have a license for the firearm.

One pro of keeping a gun for home protection is that some people may feel safer having it in the house. There are some individuals who worry about not being able to protect themselves, and having the weapon there may ease the fear. Individuals who are away from home may also feel safer knowing that their partner has the protection there if it is needed.

There are many pros and cons to consider before deciding to keep a gun for home protection.
There are many pros and cons to consider before deciding to keep a gun for home protection.

Having a gun in the home may also allow a homeowner to defend himself or herself against an intruder should the moment arise. Those who do have a gun should learn how to use it safely and be prepared for the possibility that it might be used. Taking proper safety courses to use the weapon can be a huge asset.

If there is a gun in the house, however, it is possible that children could get their hands on it. Guns should always be kept under lock and key, preferably in a safe. Unfortunately, some kids may be able to get a hold of the combination and gain access to the weapon, and they could injure themselves or others. Children should always be taught about weapons in the home and their potential danger. Many families enroll their children in gun safety courses so that they understand the seriousness of having a weapon in a home.

What some may not realize is that while a gun can be used against an intruder, the intruder can also potentially use it against the people in the home. Should someone come into the home and get his or her hands on the weapon, the situation can take a turn for the worse very quickly. This possibility is one the owner of the firearm must think about carefully before bringing it into the home.

Evaluating all the pros and cons of keeping a gun for home protection should not be done lightly. It is a very important decision and a homeowner must consider not only personal safety but also the safety of those who are also living in the home. People considering buying a gun should avoid making snap decisions and really take the time to really think about if it is the right option.

Discussion Comments

anon995781

I have been a police officer for 28 years, and feel there are no other means that a person can have that provide defense against a violent attack. Defensive tactics, pepper sprays, tasers etc, may or may not work, I will not take those odds with my life or the safety of my family. A firearm is the great equalizer.

Let's be clear: there are dangerous people in the world. Reasoning with someone intent on harming or killing you is not an option. That being said, a firearm is nothing more than a tool and just like any tool, it takes responsibility and training to properly and safely operate. Any tool, if it be a firearm or a chainsaw, requires education and training. A gun doesn't have a mind of its own, so if you get a gun, please take the time to train yourself and be responsible.

anon354076

I feel that no matter what they decided to do about the problem, they will never solve it at all.

anon309299

Where are these statistics that support you?

vigilant

Looking at it in purely economical terms, a gun is a very affordable way to protect your home. Security systems are expensive to install and require a monthly subscription. A gun requires some initial investment, but once you have it you rarely need to put more money in to it. You get a lot of peace of mind for a very low cost.

nextcorrea

I think that there are only cons. The idea that having a deadly weapon in the hands of an untrained person in a very stressful situation makes anyone safer seems ridiculous to me.

And the statistics support me. If you have a gun in the home it is a lot more likely to shoot someone you don't want than to stop a dangerous criminal.

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    • There are many pros and cons to consider before deciding to keep a gun for home protection.
      By: Netfalls
      There are many pros and cons to consider before deciding to keep a gun for home protection.