In the tense days following an election, social media inevitably lights up with fear and speculation. Nutjob liberals think that they’re going to be gone after like the humans in Planet of the Apes; others dread the Democrats’ response to a Trump victory. Whatever your reason for fretting, one piece of advice stands out: don’t rush out to buy your first gun without seriously thinking it through.
Guns aren’t a quick fix for every problem, and a hastily-made decision could lead to mistakes you’ll regret. So, let’s break down some key factors to weigh before heading to the gun shop.
Guns: Not a Cure-All Solution
Look, I’m as much of a Second Amendment supporter as the next guy, but let’s be honest—guns aren’t the answer to every issue, and certainly not a way to respond to an election. There’s an old saying, “When you’re holding a hammer, every problem starts to look like a nail.” A firearm isn’t a magic wand; it’s a tool with specific, narrow uses that come with serious moral and legal responsibilities.
For civilian gun ownership, the valid uses boil down to four key areas: personal defense, recreational shooting, competitive shooting, and hunting. If you’re interested in hunting, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with local wildlife regulations, as every region has its own rules. Personal defense? That’s a whole other ball game. Knowing the law around self-defense is critical because one wrong move can throw you into the legal system with severe repercussions.
Remember, guns are meant for use only as a last resort, when there’s an immediate, imminent threat of death or serious injury. In simpler terms, they’re a line of defense, not a problem-solver for frustrations or political disappointments. The stakes are high, and even in justified self-defense, you’ll need to be ready for potential legal fallout and, yes, for the reality that in a dangerous situation, things can go south fast.
Training Isn’t Optional
There’s a popular myth floating around that anyone who buys a gun is instantly equipped to protect themselves, as if all it takes is holding it like they do in action movies. In reality, an untrained gun owner is often a danger to themselves and others. Owning a firearm comes with a responsibility to understand not only how it operates but also how to handle it safely, effectively, and consistently.
A gun isn’t a one-time purchase with guaranteed results, like buying a security system. Think of it more like getting a new dog: you don’t just bring it home and leave it to fend for itself. You need to invest time, attention, and energy into training and maintaining those skills. If you’re serious about gun ownership for personal safety, you need to be serious about training. That means learning basic safety, marksmanship, and committing to regular practice to keep those skills sharp.
Buy a Reliable Gun—Don’t Skimp
When it comes to guns, the market is flooded with options and opinions. You’ll hear all sorts of chatter about the “best” gun, but here’s some advice: start with a reliable, quality handgun that’s known for dependability. For many first-time buyers, a Glock or a Smith & Wesson M&P are solid, no-nonsense choices. These models aren’t flashy, but they’re known for their reliability and ease of use, and they won’t break the bank—especially if you find a well-maintained police trade-in.
If you’re new to shooting, consider a 9mm. It’s easy to handle, and ammunition is widely available and affordable. Many seasoned gun owners stick with 9mm because it’s effective, especially when paired with a well-constructed defensive round. You don’t need a tricked-out race gun or a fancy, expensive model. What you do need is something you can rely on in a high-stakes situation.
Know What You’re Committing To
Here’s the thing: if you’re buying a gun to protect yourself from some potential “fascist” threat, you’ve likely come to terms with the fact that guns themselves aren’t inherently evil. You believe that a firearm in your own hands is a good thing—something that empowers you. But owning a gun also means standing up for the rights that make that ownership possible. You’re tapping into a centuries-old legacy, a tradition of self-defense and personal responsibility that goes beyond personal or political beliefs. So, thank a veteran today because they’ve played a part in protecting this freedom for you.
It’s hypocritical to enjoy that right while denying it to others, suggesting that only those with a particular political mindset should be allowed to exercise their right to bear arms. A right that’s only reserved for one group or another isn’t a right at all; it’s a privilege, and privileges can be taken away. So, if you’re going to join the ranks of gun owners, make it a full commitment. Don’t just see it as a right for today’s circumstances but as a fundamental principle that you’ll stand by, no matter who’s in office.
Final Thoughts
The decision to buy a gun is a serious one. It’s not just a purchase—it’s a responsibility that extends to yourself and to the community of gun owners who take their rights and responsibilities seriously. Buying a gun without thought or training won’t make you safer; it’ll make you vulnerable in a whole new way. If you’re truly concerned about personal protection, don’t rush it. Do your homework, commit to training, and respect the responsibility that comes with that decision.
As a new gun owner, you’re stepping into a tradition built on self-defense, personal freedom, and a commitment to safety. Be smart, stay safe, and remember that owning a gun isn’t about making a political statement. It’s about making sure that you’re prepared to protect yourself in the right way, for the right reasons.
