People often carry negative outlooks toward gun ownership and only view it from the stance of gun violence. Still, the reality of the matter is actually far more complex, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that even carrying firearms has its relevant benefits. In fact, gun ownership is on the rise in recent developments, and it’s being used as a means to break down misconceptions and biases so that more people realize the more profound truth that lies within.
However, most people remain uninformed about owning a firearm and consequently continue to harbor negative perceptions about them without taking the slightest bit of effort to educate themselves and raise awareness. And so, today, we’ll be going over the crucial details of gun ownership and the critical facts you might’ve missed by following the he-said-she-said phenomenon.
Legal Gun Ownership Operates On Strict Laws
In contrast to how movies and TV shows love to depict the constant gunplay and action, legal gun ownership significantly operates on stringent laws that ensure it only reaches the hands of the trusted and prevents the tool from being passed on elsewhere. Specifically, we’ll be going over the legal age required by federal law, how different states approach gun control, and just who is not eligible to carry one.
#1 At Least 18 Years Old To Purchase A Gun
Firstly, you must be at least 18 years of age to purchase and own your first gun, meaning that gun ownership is only allowed for mature individuals who can act rationally in any of their confronted situations as the need arises. However, you can’t simply head to the closest local gun store and sample the selections; those at the age of 18 are only allowed to purchase long guns such as rifles, shotguns, and firearms that generally require two hands to wield properly. And once you turn 21, you will be officially allowed to visit the gun store and purchase your own handgun.
#2 Regulations May Vary In Every State
Secondly, while most states follow federal law, we must also understand that gun ownership regulations can vary greatly in every state, either being more strict toward implementation or a bit laxer with security. For example, while most states honor the regulation that only 18 and up are allowed to purchase and own a gun, states like Florida and Hawaii have their age requirements both set at 21 for long guns and handguns. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you double-check your state’s laws and sentiments to understand the full scope of gun ownership in your locale.
#3 Not Everyone Is Eligible To Carry
Lastly, even if the person meets the age requirements, not everyone is eligible to purchase and own one because certain criteria and a background check will determine a person’s trustworthiness. Fugitives, convicted felons, patients receiving mental health assistance, and people deemed to be a danger to society are generally restricted from owning a gun and using one for the safety and well-being of the public. In fact, as a precautionary measure, it has also become commonplace to utilize gun shop insurance underwriting services to determine risks, limit liability, and provide protection.
Should You Consider Owning A Firearm?
With those pieces of information for understanding all said and done, the next question boggling our minds is whether we should consider owning a firearm or not. And, although many people would be quick to debate and say that it’s inherently bad, we will be highlighting what gun ownership can provide.
- Personal Discipline And Protection: Nothing teaches you self-discipline better than owning a gun because it not only hones all relevant technical and motor skills of using one, but it also teaches you how impactful your actions become. Owning a firearm also serves as a form of personal protection and keeps you prepared and safe for when something untoward happens.
- Recreational And Competitive Use: Apart from general protection, we must also remember that some guns are intended for recreational and competitive use, such as the Olympics or a simple sport-shooting hobby. Therefore, you’ll find plenty of ways to learn more about using a gun through safer activities that showcase that gun violence isn’t all there is to owning a firearm.
We Must Educate Ourselves About Gun Ownership
In conclusion, we firmly believe that nothing good will come from remaining in the dark about gun ownership. We must take the initiative to further educate ourselves, not only for our personal safety but also for the people around us. Understand that the right to bear and keep arms exists for a reason, and it is our responsibility to be informed and raise awareness.
