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texasfiddler

(1,990 posts)
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 07:54 PM Nov 2021

As a Democrat, Do you own a gun?


147 votes, 7 passes | Time left: Unlimited
I own a gun
93 (63%)
Hell no. I do not own a gun.
44 (30%)
I would buy a gun if the situation in the US became more dire.
10 (7%)
Show usernames
Disclaimer: This is an Internet poll
143 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
As a Democrat, Do you own a gun? (Original Post) texasfiddler Nov 2021 OP
Don't have a gun, don't want a gun Sherman A1 Nov 2021 #1
Out in the sticks of west texas, gay texan Nov 2021 #2
Or rattlesnakes n/t TexasBushwhacker Nov 2021 #81
I leave rattlesnakes alone mostly. hunter Nov 2021 #104
My rattlesnake frogmarch Nov 2021 #113
I have a True Dough Nov 2021 #3
If you use it to shoot flaming projectiles, it's literally a firearm Bucky Nov 2021 #42
Multiple drexelkathy Nov 2021 #4
Ahhh, ok?? USALiberal Nov 2021 #23
It was a poll drexelkathy Nov 2021 #40
No, and I wouldn't own a gun even if I were 'merely' independent. elleng Nov 2021 #5
Many marie999 Nov 2021 #6
Don't have one don't want one, but neither will I say never. Maru Kitteh Nov 2021 #7
Never have Never will!! aeromanKC Nov 2021 #8
Nope - they are not allowed on my property period FreeState Nov 2021 #9
Multiple forthemiddle Nov 2021 #10
Several, mostly inherited but some bought. Shrike47 Nov 2021 #11
Will never own a gun. rownesheck Nov 2021 #12
Have we seen you in action True Dough Nov 2021 #30
Buckaroo Banzai nt sarisataka Nov 2021 #45
Please just keep this in your fantasies Woodswalker Nov 2021 #31
😂 Duppers Nov 2021 #75
That's all? LiberatedUSA Nov 2021 #103
When I was a kid my mom went berserker on a fool holding a rifle. hunter Nov 2021 #106
Agreed. Caliman73 Nov 2021 #138
I grew up hunting... VarryOn Nov 2021 #13
I have no problem with responsible gun ownership. I have never desired to own Arkansas Granny Nov 2021 #14
I have no political reason for not having a gun-- it has just never come up. TreasonousBastard Nov 2021 #15
Yes Timewas Nov 2021 #16
I am armed due to the magat infestation. Ya never know... nt Progressive Jones Nov 2021 #17
I'm not in the hell no category cinematicdiversions Nov 2021 #18
We had them in the house when I was a kid. Mr.Bill Nov 2021 #19
No. No reason to. Demobrat Nov 2021 #20
if gun owners would just stop shooting people, wouldnt need a gun nt msongs Nov 2021 #21
Uh neh WaterSong1951 Nov 2021 #22
No not a gun GusBob Nov 2021 #24
Yes vercetti2021 Nov 2021 #25
I have owned many, right now I have two... Enter stage left Nov 2021 #26
Don't have a need zipplewrath Nov 2021 #27
What does one sarisataka Nov 2021 #28
I own a gun ex husband left with the property alittlelark Nov 2021 #29
First thing is to "have it checked" to see if it's loaded... yagotme Nov 2021 #133
It is FAR more likely sarisataka Nov 2021 #135
Yes, I was assuming the poster had some knowledge of the firearm in question. yagotme Nov 2021 #136
Back in the day sarisataka Nov 2021 #137
Yeah, a "gun class" with no shooting would be BOOOR-INGGG... yagotme Nov 2021 #139
I'm a true Blue Dem and Woodswalker Nov 2021 #32
Never had one, but not ruling it out. Haggard Celine Nov 2021 #33
I did have one that I used for target shooting, but got rid of it Poiuyt Nov 2021 #34
No, but I probably would never own one regardless of political leaning LeftInTX Nov 2021 #35
Yes liberaltrucker Nov 2021 #36
I own a Walther P99 compact SA, look into it, wonderful action... Enter stage left Nov 2021 #43
Thanks, I'll check it out liberaltrucker Nov 2021 #51
Mr Lake sold nine guns when we moved to Costa Rica are not banned but hard to get. LakeArenal Nov 2021 #37
recreational shooting is somethine me and my teenage son enjoy. SYFROYH Nov 2021 #124
Yep it's not really how many guns. Although they are beautiful pieces of machinery. LakeArenal Nov 2021 #125
Yes. Many several. MontanaFarmer Nov 2021 #38
Not me...hubby has and needs for utility work in NorCal. Works often deep in Emerald Triangle. MenloParque Nov 2021 #39
That sucks. hunter Nov 2021 #109
My husband has a couple shotguns from his dad who passed away some years ago. Wingus Dingus Nov 2021 #41
there's a question. Igel Nov 2021 #44
I am not a gun enthusiast. I am just curious. That is a tough situation. texasfiddler Nov 2021 #60
Its your gun. former9thward Nov 2021 #64
Technically EVERYTHING is in probate fescuerescue Nov 2021 #99
Yep, got a gun... Septua Nov 2021 #46
Yes but only if you include antique 22cal. rifles not fired in decades. KY_EnviroGuy Nov 2021 #47
So I'm surprised by the results and posts in this thread. Calista241 Nov 2021 #48
I've noticed that many of the posters in this thread almost never post here. Crunchy Frog Nov 2021 #71
Yeah, but there's a whole lot of posters here with very high post counts. Calista241 Nov 2021 #72
Perhaps, but you can also click the link in the poll to see who voted on each answer petronius Nov 2021 #79
It's really depressing, if true. lagomorph777 Nov 2021 #111
Since I've NEVER lived in a household without a gun forthemiddle Nov 2021 #115
I am for very strict gun control obamanut2012 Nov 2021 #123
There's nothing wrong with responsible gun ownership GusBob Nov 2021 #128
Got a lil .22 for the fun of target practice Bucky Nov 2021 #49
Interesting statistic... Septua Nov 2021 #50
Ever hear of "google"? LOL traitorsgalore Nov 2021 #52
Ever hear of Google isn't everything? LOL texasfiddler Nov 2021 #55
I have... Septua Nov 2021 #78
No, and don't plan to mvd Nov 2021 #53
No. I would be a hypocrite to own a gun and also be against guns. Doodley Nov 2021 #54
I live in trump-red north dakota with all the racists/white supremacists... cntrfthrs Nov 2021 #56
Where the entire population of North Dakota BumRushDaShow Nov 2021 #62
At this point I probably would if I didn't have kids. Crunchy Frog Nov 2021 #57
gun toting liberal here dsp3000 Nov 2021 #58
Nope. Never. NewHendoLib Nov 2021 #59
My neighbors think I have a gun Generic Brad Nov 2021 #61
Why do your neighbors think you own a gun? Sapient Donkey Nov 2021 #65
When we moved out here in the country MuseRider Nov 2021 #63
I ran the numbers. Statistically I decided my family would be less safe with a gun around Quixote1818 Nov 2021 #66
I have 10 at this time nt doc03 Nov 2021 #67
In the middle of nowhere with 30 minute police response time Amishman Nov 2021 #68
My hubby loves his CZ75B Single Action. He says it's butter smooth. MenloParque Nov 2021 #114
More than one UpInArms Nov 2021 #69
We go hiking in remote areas and have physical limitations. Baked Potato Nov 2021 #70
I've owned guns all my life ripcord Nov 2021 #73
Having downsized my collection a great deal, I now only have 14. Dial H For Hero Nov 2021 #74
Many madville Nov 2021 #76
I own 3 KentuckyWoman Nov 2021 #77
Two .22 pistols Rob H. Nov 2021 #80
As a person who lives with depression TexasBushwhacker Nov 2021 #82
this day and age... myohmy2 Nov 2021 #83
If Republicans trust God to take care of them during covid Tribetime Nov 2021 #84
It's too much work to get one in NYC Polybius Nov 2021 #85
Nope: there are too many people I'd like to see lined up against a wall and shot. struggle4progress Nov 2021 #86
Several. Shotgun for bird hunting. Other for duck hunting GulfCoast66 Nov 2021 #87
I am neurotically terrified of the things. So no. nolabear Nov 2021 #88
I have several, all kinds Raine Nov 2021 #89
I have quite a few. Straw Man Nov 2021 #90
I do not value this life so much that I would harm another in order to keep it wackadoo wabbit Nov 2021 #91
Nope. I think have guns tend to attract other people with guns In It to Win It Nov 2021 #92
No. No guns. PERIOD Scottie Mom Nov 2021 #93
Own them and am proficient in their usage. Ligyron Nov 2021 #94
as a farmer living in hurricane country bluecollar2 Nov 2021 #95
I used to. bluedigger Nov 2021 #96
No. Aristus Nov 2021 #97
i own several rdking647 Nov 2021 #98
Why do I need a gun? I have Spot. hunter Nov 2021 #100
Interesting that the comments are predominately negative, but the poll is positive MisterProton Nov 2021 #101
No. tavernier Nov 2021 #102
Can't get one without jumping through a lot of very necessary hoops here. GoneOffShore Nov 2021 #105
I live in Germany DFW Nov 2021 #107
If accurate, this poll result is incredibly depressing. lagomorph777 Nov 2021 #108
It's an internet poll krispos42 Nov 2021 #120
Don't forget to factor in the multiple firearms owned by a typical US gun-owner Devil Child Nov 2021 #121
Eeesh. lagomorph777 Nov 2021 #122
What a curious statement GusBob Nov 2021 #127
Then I have some worse news for you. LiberatedUSA Nov 2021 #129
Nice NRA talking points. lagomorph777 Nov 2021 #132
We don't have an... LiberatedUSA Nov 2021 #134
What do you think the issue is? Happy Hoosier Nov 2021 #131
Most Democrats Elessar Zappa Nov 2021 #141
We haven't done this in a while, but it usually comes out about 50-50. SYFROYH Nov 2021 #110
I have two Shrek Nov 2021 #112
Yes, we have these in the fields around us DashOneBravo Nov 2021 #116
Message auto-removed Name removed Nov 2021 #117
My daughter gave me a gun because I live way out in the country womanofthehills Nov 2021 #118
I'd suggest a compressed-air rifle for your needs. No gunpowder, fine for small/medium game. n/t Decoy of Fenris Nov 2021 #119
I thought you could only own a gun as a gun owner. Iggo Nov 2021 #126
Yes... quite a few. Happy Hoosier Nov 2021 #130
I own sporting firearms. Act_of_Reparation Nov 2021 #140
Yeah, but just an old-fashioned lever action sir pball Nov 2021 #142
Don't. Did one/once. My government trained me 2 major occasions. Support drivers license type rules. UTUSN Nov 2021 #143

hunter

(38,311 posts)
104. I leave rattlesnakes alone mostly.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 01:45 PM
Nov 2021

They're fairly shy and eat critters that are worse.

Killing a few of them doesn't reduce the overall population much so there's not much point to it.

Pigs are the scariest animals in the California forests, more so than bears, and they're an invasive species.

frogmarch

(12,153 posts)
113. My rattlesnake
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:29 PM
Nov 2021

Many years ago when we were living in the basement of the house we were building in the wilds of South Dakota, my then-6 year old daughter called out from the bathroom, "Mom, I need toilet paper! Also, there's a snake." I dropped the dish I was washing and ran and cracked the bathroom door open. A large rattlesnake was coiled a few feet from the toilet and my daughter. It was shaking its rattles. I told my daughter to not move, and I ran and looked for my husband's 22 (his dad gave it to him as a kid, but my husband had never shot it, or any gun). I had never shot a gun either. Still, not even knowing if it was loaded, I took aim at the snake and fired. Turns out, it was loaded. I got the snake - and also the water heater. My daughter was okay and again asked for toilet paper.

Bucky

(54,003 posts)
42. If you use it to shoot flaming projectiles, it's literally a firearm
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:49 PM
Nov 2021

unless you're darker than Tony Orlando. Then it's a invitation for police violence

drexelkathy

(118 posts)
4. Multiple
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:00 PM
Nov 2021

Just got more this week.


Had my baby shower at a shooting range. My husband is a skilled and competitive marksman. I have freezers full of meat.

elleng

(130,895 posts)
5. No, and I wouldn't own a gun even if I were 'merely' independent.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:00 PM
Nov 2021

(I did teach riflery and archery when in summer camp in high school.)

Maru Kitteh

(28,340 posts)
7. Don't have one don't want one, but neither will I say never.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:02 PM
Nov 2021

I live in the forest, in one of the reddest counties of one of the reddest states in the country.

rownesheck

(2,343 posts)
12. Will never own a gun.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:05 PM
Nov 2021

Plus, my reflexes are hyper fast. I would charge a fucker shooting at me while dodging all his bullets. Then I would grab his gun, beat him to death with it, and have it melted down.

While all this is going down I would be laughing at him and making fun of his bullshit "Come and Take It" sticker on his truck.

 

LiberatedUSA

(1,666 posts)
103. That's all?
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 01:45 PM
Nov 2021

Have it melt down into tiny miniatures of you beating him to death and have the copies sent to all his relatives.

hunter

(38,311 posts)
106. When I was a kid my mom went berserker on a fool holding a rifle.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:01 PM
Nov 2021

He was probably too busy shitting his pants to pull the trigger. Or possibly he suffered a moment of common sense.

My mom broke his gun, but she didn't beat him to death with it.

We're pacifists in my family by necessity, not by any natural inclination.

I've had too much gun drama in my life. I don't romanticize it.

Gun fetishes are disgusting.

Caliman73

(11,736 posts)
138. Agreed.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 12:12 PM
Nov 2021

Guns are tools and can be deadly either on purpose or by negligence. It is a huge responsibility to own and carry one. Too many people "like" or "love" guns which is really odd.

I don't demonize guns and I don't deify them. I see them as what they are and understand the consequences of their use and misuse.

 

VarryOn

(2,343 posts)
13. I grew up hunting...
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:07 PM
Nov 2021

Never seen it as a big deal. Even have my concealed carry license, but I never carry on my person. Got it so I can have one under my seat in the car.

 

cinematicdiversions

(1,969 posts)
18. I'm not in the hell no category
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:17 PM
Nov 2021

I don't own a gun because where I live I don't need one. In the past I have lived in areas where a gun was a more useful tool.

Mr.Bill

(24,284 posts)
19. We had them in the house when I was a kid.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:20 PM
Nov 2021

I owned one for awhile as an adult. I sold it about 35 years ago and don't have one now.

Demobrat

(8,976 posts)
20. No. No reason to.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:24 PM
Nov 2021

If bears, boars, or rattlesnakes were a factor, sure I’d have a gun, but I have never felt the need. Nor would I know how to use one if I had it. I’d have to get a lot of training. Now, pepper spray, different story.

vercetti2021

(10,156 posts)
25. Yes
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:30 PM
Nov 2021

I own a few handguns and a couple of rifles. I grew up shooting guns and actually being responsible with them. After our neighbor threatened to kill us. I took more classes on proper usage and storing. I have no trust in that guy since he comes off mentally inept

Enter stage left

(3,396 posts)
26. I have owned many, right now I have two...
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:30 PM
Nov 2021

My father, military trained, taught me gun safety and how to shoot when I was 7-8 years old.

Boy Scouts took over after that, I won every event I entered.

I am also military trained (far advanced training, not just basic) shot expert with pistols, rifles, grenade launchers and mortars. Missed the 105mm cannon. Damn, I'd buy one if they were available to civilians.

I have hunted big game (never birds, I love birds) but now all I hunt are targets at a range. I hope I never have to use a gun in anger, but I'm more than qualified if it becomes necessary.

Any RWNJ that thinks all liberals are going to roll over and play dead when confronted, better get their heads out a very dark smelly place.

zipplewrath

(16,646 posts)
27. Don't have a need
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:30 PM
Nov 2021

If I had a true need, I would get one. As an engineer I can appreciate the technology and workmanship. But at the end of the day there are precious few people who can justify the ownership. God's to honest truth, if you enjoy shooting at targets, go to a range, rent a gun, or store a gun there, and shot as many paper targets as ya want. Go out on the range and plink yer heart out. But leave the gun there.

yagotme

(2,919 posts)
133. First thing is to "have it checked" to see if it's loaded...
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:48 AM
Nov 2021

Mechanical failure could lead to an accidental discharge.

ETA: Have knowledgeable person check if you don't know about said firearm.

sarisataka

(18,633 posts)
135. It is FAR more likely
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:52 AM
Nov 2021

And untrained person would fire it while trying to check it than it firing due to mechanical failure.

Better to have someone who knows firearms check it

yagotme

(2,919 posts)
136. Yes, I was assuming the poster had some knowledge of the firearm in question.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 12:00 PM
Nov 2021

I should have posted "Have it checked", instead. That did pass quickly through my head, but I hit "Post" before it fully sank in.

sarisataka

(18,633 posts)
137. Back in the day
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 12:07 PM
Nov 2021

When I still had the belief the NRA could be changed from within, I taught a class specifically aimed at such situations. It involved no shooting, only to teach a person how to verify if a gun was loaded and unload it if necessary.

It was never a very popular class, which didn't matter, but mostly it was older widows whose husband's left behind guns. The ladies wanted to be sure they could move them to storage or sell them without accidentally shooting someone.

Haggard Celine

(16,844 posts)
33. Never had one, but not ruling it out.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:35 PM
Nov 2021

I wish there were a lot fewer guns in this country, but at the same time I understand why people would want or need one. My friends encourage me to get one because I live alone and my neighborhood isn't the best in town. But I feel safe here, not afraid to go anywhere around here. With the way things are going in this country, though, I'm beginning to think that owning a gun would be the best thing for my safety. If I get one, it'll be something easy to handle and shoot, like a .22, maybe.

liberaltrucker

(9,129 posts)
36. Yes
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:40 PM
Nov 2021

A .357 Mag revolver and a 30.06 hunting rifle.
Thinking of getting a Sig Sauer or Walther 9mm, since
I live in very red western PA.

Enter stage left

(3,396 posts)
43. I own a Walther P99 compact SA, look into it, wonderful action...
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:50 PM
Nov 2021

won't fit in a pocket well, but a small holster is ideal.

No safety, has a "decocker" feature after inserting the magazine. After decocking, first round is double action, about 11-12 #'s pull, all rest are single action, about 5#'s pull.

Extremely accurate, fits my smaller hands.

LakeArenal

(28,817 posts)
37. Mr Lake sold nine guns when we moved to Costa Rica are not banned but hard to get.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:41 PM
Nov 2021

It was never about shooting people and many times not about deer. Some of the best times at night with his dad or brother just hanging. Not always getting a deer.

SYFROYH

(34,169 posts)
124. recreational shooting is somethine me and my teenage son enjoy.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 10:58 AM
Nov 2021

My body is too broken down to play sports with him and I'll never understand his video games, but hitting the range is something we can do.

LakeArenal

(28,817 posts)
125. Yep it's not really how many guns. Although they are beautiful pieces of machinery.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:20 AM
Nov 2021

Mr Lake used to say to NRAcaller: Hillary Clinton doesn’t want to ban-guns. She wants to stop weapons of mass destruction.

MontanaFarmer

(630 posts)
38. Yes. Many several.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:44 PM
Nov 2021

Sporting rifles, shotguns, a couple pass down 22s. Haven't changed any gun ownership habits due to political climate but i refuse to say that i wouldn't given where i live and the fact that i believe our country is teetering on the edge of authoritarianism.

hunter

(38,311 posts)
109. That sucks.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:13 PM
Nov 2021

I wish they lowered the entry level for legal cannabis farms and reduced the taxes enough to put the violent guys out of business.

They'd switch to meth, of course, but you don't need a hidden place in the forest to make that.

Wingus Dingus

(8,052 posts)
41. My husband has a couple shotguns from his dad who passed away some years ago.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:47 PM
Nov 2021

He doesn't hunt anymore, so they're just basic home defense now, along with barky little dogs.

Igel

(35,300 posts)
44. there's a question.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:50 PM
Nov 2021

My father owned a gun.

He died.

I am his heir. I will own the gun.

But it's in probate. So I don't quite own it.

But he committed suicide. With the gun. It's why he bought it.

And the fiduciary knows nothing of it. It's at my brother's. A federal firearms dealer. In his gun safe. And the local police granted me custody of the gun to prevent my mother, suffering from dementia, custody of the gun. I mean, she came at me with a knife, why would the cops let her have a gun?

So do I own a gun? Do I want to own *that* gun? Do I want to own a gun, in principle.

CH3CH2OH.

texasfiddler

(1,990 posts)
60. I am not a gun enthusiast. I am just curious. That is a tough situation.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:20 PM
Nov 2021

I would personally prevent my mother from getting it, due to dementia. I am sorry you are going through this.

former9thward

(31,997 posts)
64. Its your gun.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:30 PM
Nov 2021

Why its part of probate is beyond me. Normally that stuff is outside any will unless it has special value (antique) or it was specifically given to an heir in the will. If there was no will then you will have to answer your last two questions as you see fit.

fescuerescue

(4,448 posts)
99. Technically EVERYTHING is in probate
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 11:10 AM
Nov 2021

Not just the stuff mentioned in the will. Technically the gun is owned by the estate right now.

But as a practical matter? Exactly what you said.

Septua

(2,255 posts)
46. Yep, got a gun...
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:51 PM
Nov 2021

I started "carrying" legally several years ago because of the pre-Trump kooks. You can be sitting in a restaurant or shopping at Walmart and some wingnut might show up. I want to be in a position to defend myself if I can't find an escape exit...for me, it's just common sense.

During the past 6 months, I bought more guns...for the post-Trump kooks...I take their threats seriously and am very concerned as to how far they will go.

I'm not gun crazy or even fond of guns...soon as I started carrying, I took an online course in pistol shooting, safety and gun owner responsibilities. I know how to handle and shoot a pistol safely and I know what I can and can't do, legally. Trump's kooks are not as conscientious as me...

Calista241

(5,586 posts)
48. So I'm surprised by the results and posts in this thread.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:54 PM
Nov 2021

Given the vocal number of gun control people on DU.

Crunchy Frog

(26,579 posts)
71. I've noticed that many of the posters in this thread almost never post here.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 10:00 PM
Nov 2021

I've rarely seen so many posters whose usernames were so totally unfamiliar.

petronius

(26,602 posts)
79. Perhaps, but you can also click the link in the poll to see who voted on each answer
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 11:23 PM
Nov 2021

Lots of long-term regular posters in each of the answer categories...

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
111. It's really depressing, if true.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:23 PM
Nov 2021

We have fallen down the rabbit hole. America is about to explode in unprecedented violence.

Imagine how the Civil War would have gone if:
(1) There were no North and South, but instead a Swiss-cheese with thousands of pockets of Red and Blue (instead of Gray and Blue)
(2) Instead of muskets and revolvers, everybody was carrying assault rifles

forthemiddle

(1,379 posts)
115. Since I've NEVER lived in a household without a gun
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 03:44 PM
Nov 2021

I doubt I’m part of “falling down the rabbit hole”

For my whole life, a gun has been nothing but a tool. Everyone in my family has been trained in gun safety. I won’t give up my guns for a political ideology.

And if, in the end, there truly is a Civil War, you will be happy I’m on your side.

Bucky

(54,003 posts)
49. Got a lil .22 for the fun of target practice
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:55 PM
Nov 2021

Doubt I could shoot a person. Don't like to think about it.

My gun nut friend took me to a shooting range to practice with his rifle once. I was pretty obnoxious about my support for Obama while there and pissed off several of the other customers.

After I took my turn hitting the target, one of the rednecks told me I had "a pretty good spread." I told him he'd have to buy me dinner first if he wanted to find out for sure. I did not make any friends that day. My proudest moment.

Septua

(2,255 posts)
50. Interesting statistic...
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 08:59 PM
Nov 2021

70% of the poll takers own a gun...and the Republicans think WE Dems want to take them away.

BumRushDaShow

(128,906 posts)
62. Where the entire population of North Dakota
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:27 PM
Nov 2021

is less than HALF the population of my one city of Philadelphia (which encompasses 142 sq. miles vs ND's 70,700 sq. miles).

dsp3000

(483 posts)
58. gun toting liberal here
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:13 PM
Nov 2021

although i don't advertise it like some people do and no one would know it if they saw me. If the other side is armed, you better be ready too. also i'm a minority in an all white neighborhood. i'm in a very purple rural suburb in bucks county pa ( went trump by literally 4 votes in 2016, and biden by a few hundred in 2020) and some people are not right here. I bought my first firearm at the beginning of the pandemic but would have bought one sooner. Have shot before that though.

Sapient Donkey

(1,568 posts)
65. Why do your neighbors think you own a gun?
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:34 PM
Nov 2021

Also, I am curious why you may want them to believe you own one. I only ask because your comment made me laugh and curious about the situation you’re in. I never thought much about the gun ownership status of my neighbors

MuseRider

(34,108 posts)
63. When we moved out here in the country
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:28 PM
Nov 2021

my husband thought we needed a couple of guns. I do not know where they are, I do not know where the ammo is and I have no idea why we needed them, it isn't like there are bears out here. They have never been used or needed. The funny thing is, my husband had never shot a gun before. I KNOW how to shoot, my dad taught me when I was just a wee little girl and I had to learn again when I worked at the zoo, just in case. I have probably shot no more than 20 times in my whole life nor do I care to ever do it again. The guns are well away from anywhere that is easily accessible. Makes a lot of sense doesn't it?

Protection, lol. It would take an hour for him to find everything and put it together.

Quixote1818

(28,930 posts)
66. I ran the numbers. Statistically I decided my family would be less safe with a gun around
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:34 PM
Nov 2021

Maybe if I lived in a high crime area or had a specific threat I might consider it. As my statistics professor would say, if you think owning a gun makes you safer then you are mathematically challenged. That being said, I think if I was an ex-cop or military and extremely skilled and knowledgeable, I might consider it. I think someone extremely well trained is probably safer with a gun around.

https://www.thetrace.org/2020/04/gun-safety-research-coronavirus-gun-sales/

Amishman

(5,557 posts)
68. In the middle of nowhere with 30 minute police response time
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:40 PM
Nov 2021

Yes I do.

I have a few old heirlooms, but also a modern pistol (CZ 75) that stays in a bedside quick access lockbox.

MenloParque

(512 posts)
114. My hubby loves his CZ75B Single Action. He says it's butter smooth.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:32 PM
Nov 2021

I assume it’s a soft shooting pistol with little recoil. He likes steel pistols and hates plastic, polymer pistols.

UpInArms

(51,282 posts)
69. More than one
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:47 PM
Nov 2021

I live in the middle of nowhere …

Have had a rabid skunk in my yard … you have to at least have a critter gun

Baked Potato

(7,733 posts)
70. We go hiking in remote areas and have physical limitations.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 09:51 PM
Nov 2021

Sometimes bad people hang out in the woods, so pack we do.

ripcord

(5,372 posts)
73. I've owned guns all my life
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 10:07 PM
Nov 2021

Gun safety has been drilled into me as long as I can remember. I live in a fairly remote part of the desert and unfortunately with all the meth labs and illegal pot farms "hiding" out here 4 legged varmints aren't all I have to worry about.

madville

(7,410 posts)
76. Many
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 10:37 PM
Nov 2021

I don’t post in many gun/2nd amendment threads here anymore, it’s a futile endeavor and no one will change their mind. I have hunting rifles, antique family guns (Colt 1903, 1911, and two police positive revolvers), modern concealed carry handguns, shotguns, etc.

I deer and hog hunt, I’m trying to get through the 50 pounds of ground venison I still have left from last season, so the freezer will be almost empty when it reopens in about a month I rarely buy meat at the store except some occasional chicken or seafood, usually get 200-300 pounds of venison and wild pork a year.

KentuckyWoman

(6,679 posts)
77. I own 3
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 10:49 PM
Nov 2021

I do not own any bullets. These days my idea of hunting food is sales and coupons.

In my younger days, I could track and shoot better than the men in my family.

Rob H.

(5,351 posts)
80. Two .22 pistols
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 11:23 PM
Nov 2021

One’s a collector piece that lives in its case, the other is the one I use to go target shooting with my dad.

TexasBushwhacker

(20,185 posts)
82. As a person who lives with depression
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 11:29 PM
Nov 2021

I will never own a gun. I've lost 2 friends and a boss to firearm suicides. Nothing is as fast and lethal as a gun.

struggle4progress

(118,282 posts)
86. Nope: there are too many people I'd like to see lined up against a wall and shot.
Mon Nov 1, 2021, 11:51 PM
Nov 2021

As long as I'm still trying to learn how to love my enemies, I'll keep telling myself not to make it too easy to murder them

GulfCoast66

(11,949 posts)
87. Several. Shotgun for bird hunting. Other for duck hunting
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 12:11 AM
Nov 2021

The deer rifles which I can hit a salad plate sized target at 300 yards. The gun can shoot farther but 300 yards is my limit. At 100 yards I put 3 shots in the size of a penny. Many hunters think humane kills are important. If you can’t hit where you aim you should not hunt. Vegans and vegetarians are free to criticize hunters. But if you eat meat you are paying someone else to do your dirty work. Hunters do it themselves. And get better meat.

Also have a .22 for squirrels and rabbits although have not hunted them in decades.

The idea that Democratic Party members don’t own guns is crazy. It’s all about where you live.




nolabear

(41,960 posts)
88. I am neurotically terrified of the things. So no.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 12:18 AM
Nov 2021

Realistically I’m not likely to ever need one. Theoretically if I had to protect myself or a loved one I would use one. But I don’t want to be near one or anyone who has one on their body, and I’m not crazy about being in a place with one. And yes, I know it’s extreme.

Raine

(30,540 posts)
89. I have several, all kinds
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 12:34 AM
Nov 2021

I inherited them. I've never shot them, I doubt I ever will. I probably should take some classes to learn how to handle them safely.

Straw Man

(6,624 posts)
90. I have quite a few.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 12:44 AM
Nov 2021

I have a C&R FFL -- that's a "Curio-and-Relic Federal Firearms License," a license for collectors that allows me to purchase firearms over 50 years old or have been deemed "curios" by the ATF, foregoing the usual background check for each purchase. (I still have to have a background check for each purchase of any non-C&R firearm.) I have a small collection of vintage rifles, mostly WW II era, and Cold War era handguns from the Eastern Bloc: Russian, Czech, Bulgarian, Yugoslav. I also have more than a few "modern" firearms.

I compete in three target disciplines: trapshooting (shotgun), .22 rifle, and .22 pistol. I also have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. I live in a state that makes that a very difficult thing to get, and the powers-that-be have deemed me sufficiently trustworthy to have one.

wackadoo wabbit

(1,166 posts)
91. I do not value this life so much that I would harm another in order to keep it
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 01:46 AM
Nov 2021

So, obviously, no, I have no gun.

In It to Win It

(8,248 posts)
92. Nope. I think have guns tend to attract other people with guns
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 06:04 AM
Nov 2021

More guns = more gun related injuries or harm

No thanks

Scottie Mom

(5,812 posts)
93. No. No guns. PERIOD
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 07:41 AM
Nov 2021

I hate them and do not have one and do not allow them in my home unless it is law enforcement.

Ligyron

(7,632 posts)
94. Own them and am proficient in their usage.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 07:42 AM
Nov 2021

I would never have said this 10 yrs ago, but:

Considering what we are up against?

I urge all Dems who can afford it to purchase one or two plus ear protection, take a basic gun safety course and then become familiar with their use.

Like everything else in life practice makes perfect so … practice, practice, practice.

You might even begin to think this is fun.

But let’s face it: guns and ammo are $$. However, a good, used pump shotgun that can be had for a couple hundred dollars is a very versatile weapon.

bluecollar2

(3,622 posts)
95. as a farmer living in hurricane country
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 07:59 AM
Nov 2021

yes,,,critter control for the Grove (snakes,iguanas,feral dogs)

Law enforcement non-existent in unincorporated part of the county. When power lines are down after a hurricane you're on your own.

Being a Democrat doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things.

bluedigger

(17,086 posts)
96. I used to.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 10:52 AM
Nov 2021

I bought a handgun when I lived in the French Quarter after a holdup went bad around the block from me. You could literally climb in my second floor bedroom from the street... Sold it for rent money a few years back after I had moved to Colorado. Now I live 7 miles out of town and am considering acquiring another one for self-defense, but don't really feel any sense of urgency. Army veteran and high scorer on the range in basic training with the M-16...

 

rdking647

(5,113 posts)
98. i own several
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 11:09 AM
Nov 2021

ivae always said i dont own guns becasue om worried about the random criminal.. I own them becasue im jewish (at least by ethnicity) and i own them incase the whack jobs take over...

I never thought about it actually coming true but i live in texas.

hunter

(38,311 posts)
100. Why do I need a gun? I have Spot.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 11:59 AM
Nov 2021

Spot lives under my staircase.

Sometimes I find partially digested guns in his poop.

That and the nukes...


MisterProton

(56 posts)
101. Interesting that the comments are predominately negative, but the poll is positive
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 01:29 PM
Nov 2021

Not sure what that implies beyond the obvious of who is more vocal.

tavernier

(12,383 posts)
102. No.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 01:41 PM
Nov 2021

I enjoy buying jewelry and perfume. If I ever have the need to shoot somebody I’ll get some counseling.

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
108. If accurate, this poll result is incredibly depressing.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:13 PM
Nov 2021

I didn't realize we were mostly on the other side of this issue.

krispos42

(49,445 posts)
120. It's an internet poll
Wed Nov 3, 2021, 10:08 PM
Nov 2021

People are self-selecting to answer it, which means the results aren't scientific.

Nonetheless, my opinion on the matter is documented on DU.

 

Devil Child

(2,728 posts)
121. Don't forget to factor in the multiple firearms owned by a typical US gun-owner
Wed Nov 3, 2021, 10:45 PM
Nov 2021

For maximum depression!

GusBob

(7,286 posts)
127. What a curious statement
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:32 AM
Nov 2021

what "other side" of what "issue"?

Responsible gun ownership has long been advocated here and by most Dem policy makers, along with control of guns like AK's

The real "other side" is claiming we want to eliminate all gun ownership (i.e. 'take away all our guns&quot

Are "you" claiming that nobody should be able to own a gun or are you claiming "we" should be advocating such?

Please explain

 

LiberatedUSA

(1,666 posts)
129. Then I have some worse news for you.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:36 AM
Nov 2021

The rate of ownership is likely higher than reflected.

Why would anyone want to answer it “yes I own guns”? Then have that used as proof down the road on a reason to do a house search?

Anyone residing in a state with no gun registration has no gains no benefit from letting others, especially others with opposing views, from knowing that answer; especially if the question is gun type specific.

The point being (from the non benefit of answering truthfully),in the event of an type of gun ban, make it so they can’t prove or disprove you hand guns to hand over or if you handed them all over. You can’t prove or disprove a negative. A court can’t make a person prove they didn’t dig a hole and stuff it with guns the court can’t prove they ever had to begin with.

 

LiberatedUSA

(1,666 posts)
134. We don't have an...
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:51 AM
Nov 2021

…Assault Weapon Ban in our party platform that bans semi-automatic weapons from purchase for those not in Law Enforcement? If that doesn’t classify as a gun ban, then what are the objects being banned classified as?

And as always, we want to ban them for being war weapons, while allowing the same cops we protest for murdering us to keep theirs; and that somehow makes sense to us.

Happy Hoosier

(7,296 posts)
131. What do you think the issue is?
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:40 AM
Nov 2021

The vast majority of Democrats I know do not oppose gun ownership, but rather favor greater regulation of them.

That's me. I own guns. But I favor 100% background checks, tight control of public carry (open or concealed), liability laws, etc.

Elessar Zappa

(13,975 posts)
141. Most Democrats
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 12:21 PM
Nov 2021

don’t have a problem with responsible gun ownership. I’m very pro-gun control but I don’t have a problem with someone owning a gun or two.

SYFROYH

(34,169 posts)
110. We haven't done this in a while, but it usually comes out about 50-50.
Tue Nov 2, 2021, 02:18 PM
Nov 2021

But it should be noted that DU gun owners hold a wide variety of views on gun laws and regulations although we all want to see gun violence decreased.

Response to texasfiddler (Original post)

womanofthehills

(8,703 posts)
118. My daughter gave me a gun because I live way out in the country
Wed Nov 3, 2021, 09:17 PM
Nov 2021

I think I have shot it only about 3 times because I’m allergic to the gun powder and get an instant headache. A woman in my town taught me gun safety, but I’m definitely not into guns.

I live in rattlesnake country and was bitten by a rattler a few yrs ago and one of my dogs was bitten last month - so if rattlers are near my house, I kill them with big rocks.

Happy Hoosier

(7,296 posts)
130. Yes... quite a few.
Thu Nov 4, 2021, 11:37 AM
Nov 2021

Mostly antiques. Most I do not actually have live ammo for (or the ammo itself is antique and unfit for use).

I do have a few modern guns. I practice with them occasionally. I enjoy shooting them, but I hate gun culture, so I shoot them less than I otherwise would.

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