What Do Normal Law-Abiding People Who Own Firearms for Self-Protection Look Like?

Like any other normal law-abiding person, many firearm owners for self-protection look exactly like you, your neighbors, friends, and family. Popular misconceptions often paint a nefarious picture; however, the reality is quite different.

The Reality of Law-Abiding Firearm Owners

Contrary to popular belief, firearm owners for self-protection do not differ significantly in appearance from the general population. They are ordinary men and women from various ethnicities, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. According to a 2018 estimate by the Small Arms Survey based in Switzerland, American civilians own an astounding 393 million firearms. That’s approximately one firearm per person in the country. Furthermore, in 2020, 23 million firearms were sold by Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs).

Ordinary Americans with Firearms

Consider this: firearm owners for self-protection could very well be the mechanic who fixes your car, the receptionist at your clinic, or the person you see walking down the street. They are just like you.

In many cases, bad guys or wanted individuals are easily distinguishable as they may appear similar to those people who have been diagnosed as 'dead on arrival' in the medical field. They stand out from the crowd and do not blend in with the general public. Conversely, law-abiding firearm owners simply appear as regular people.

One example of a bad guy who stands out is an individual wanted in northern California. He does not fit the stereotypical description of most firearm owners and thus would be out of character for your 'law-abiding' neighbor or friend.

Personal Experience

Take a moment to look in the mirror. That is the face of a law-abiding firearm owner. There is no sudden transformation or distinctive feature; the only difference is the ownership of a firearm for self-protection. The firearm owner and the rest of us share the same appearance, behaviors, and lives.

My family provides a prime example. My mother, the first in my immediate family to own a firearm for self-protection, purchased a 38-caliber revolver. Others eventually followed suit, including myself and my wife, who took up shooting for the first time at age 58, obtaining her own firearm, “license to carry,” and regular practice at the range. Statistics show that many women join the ranks of firearm owners later in life, often after reassessing their personal security needs.

Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions

It is crucial to dispel the myths and stereotypes surrounding firearm owners. They are not a separate and distinct group from the rest of society. Instead, they are just regular folks, often seen in the everyday activities of life. Whether at work, at home, or in their communities, firearm owners are not easily identifiable or distinguishable based on their appearance.

So, why do misconceptions persist? Often, it stems from a lack of understanding and a flawed understanding of what it means to own a firearm. Stories and media portrayals often emphasize the dramatic and extreme, leading to a skewed perception of firearm ownership. However, statistics and personal experiences demonstrate that the reality is much more mundane and relatable.

Conclusion

Law-abiding firearm owners are ordinary people. They are not altered in any way, except that they have chosen to take steps towards self-protection. By owning a firearm for self-defense, they have taken responsibility and have reaffirmed their commitment to the rule of law. As you interact with the people around you, be aware that many of them may be firearm owners without you ever knowing. They are just like the rest of us, living ordinary lives and making ordinary choices.