Are any DU'ers considering

[madmax]

arming themselves with guns and ammo, in view of what's going on with these Teabaggers and wing-nuts?

Remember, the Jewish people were optimistic and thought they could ride the storm. I'm getting a little paranoid. I would have to take classes. I know squat about guns. Never even touched one. Although I was robbed at gun point and felt the gun in my ribs. I gave up my wedding ring and he ran away.

Just askin. Would appreciate any feed back, opinons, pro-views, anti-views. I need help working this out. Maybe I'm over-reacting but, I'm more than a little concerned. As I said in another post somewhere, if the shit hits the fan I want to be armed with something more than a rolling pin.

KO's special comment last night left me feeling more apprehensive as he listed each loon candidate that could win and their words and ideas to 'change' America.

On edit: I don't have small children. I'm 61 and the husband is 54. No small visiting grandkids either. They're 20 and she lives in NJ and the grandson is 15 and lives close but, I would put the gun and ammo locked up.

[lame54]

1. No

[Taverner]

2. Yes. Please don't tell my wife.

She made me promise no guns in the house

[seabeyond]

13. ahhhhm. HUGE no no. lol. you be bad. gonna get in trouble

have her pm me. i will convince her. i am anti gun, in house with responsible gun owner. it is ok. not something i love, not even like, but.... well hell, liked them before i married. not gonna change now.

[Taverner]

14. I wish it were just a matter of logic

We have young kids, and she's afraid the gun might be left out, etc...

Granted I would buy a gun lock along with the gun, but that's not enough.

[seabeyond]

27. my husband has his in a safe.

and the one not in safe is way beyond where kids could find or reach, even if they ahd the desire to try or look or i was not home, or paying attention.

sorry though. i hate to see anyone break a promise, or be in a position to break a promise.

[Dappleganger]

40. We have a gun safe and an ammo safe...

actually, more than one for the handguns and then on top of that they are individually locked up.

[seabeyond]

60. yup. but the most important

i told hubby i was not into guns, dont like them and his job to teach the boys RESPONSIBLE at all cost with thse things. he has done a good job. kids repsect the danger and have always held safety in the highest regard. they are safety and responsible oriented kids anyway.

[madmax]

89. Key word - Responsible

We know what that means to Teabaggers - zilch. But, we're different.

[Dappleganger]

98. Yes, but remember that kids sometimes have stupid friends.

REALLY stupid. In our city last year a couple of kids from a "christian" school broke into one of their friend's dad's gun cases (which happened to be a tackle box with an easy-pick lock) and stole an old .45 plus ammo, then the following week took one of their female classmates out and shot her in the head (blew it completely apart). Their friend's father of course was devastated that his old gun (which had been passed down) was stolen and used for this crime, but he didn't find out until later that his own kid had bragged to his friends about the gun and showed them where it was located in the house.

So safety is important, but always plan on the lowest-common denominator variable to screw it up.

[madmax]

102. I'll keep that in mind although I don't have

small children I do have a 15 yo grandson. I wouldn't even tell my son or dil that I have gun, if I did get one.

[krabigirl]

111. My husband said the same to me. I do have pepper spray, though.

I am scared of guns but have considered having one for personal protection. It won't happen, though, as my husband is from a European country where they think you are certifiable if you have a firearm.

[madmax]

128. What country might that be if

I'm not being too nosey.

[cynatnite]

3. Nope. I will never allow them to have that kind of power over me. n/t

[SammyWinstonJack]

109. +1

:thumbsup:

[kentuck]

4. Considering?

No. Already decided.

But I would have no guns if there were children around the house.

[blondeatlast]

5. No. I don't choose to live in fear. nt

[KeepItReal]

10. +1

They are more scared of you than you are of them.

See how they react when one lady with a wig a sign gets close?

[sufrommich]

6. No, I have no intension of turning myself into a teabagger. nt

[zipplewrath]

7. What do you expect to do with it?

Are you planning or joining a militia? Buying a cabin in Montana? I'm not sure what it is you want to do with the weapon? Are you expecting to be attacked in your own home?It's iimportant to understand what threat you are expecting so that you'd know what weapon to buy, and what kind of training to receive.

[madmax]

35. That's a good question

I don't scare easily but, this stuff is making me a bit irrational, paranoid? Maybe I'd feel like it's a security blanket. Just in case... In case of what I have no idea. That's why I posted this here - I know I will get good feed back. In r/l I can't ask nor do I trust a lot of people other than my family. Plus the fact that we just moved here 3 years ago and until my son moved down we were alone, just me and my soulmate.

I haven't mentioned anything to the husband, I know his answer would be NO!!!!

[zipplewrath]

53. Sawed off shot gun

You want a sawed off shotgun. Pistol grip. Unfortunately they are generally illegal. However, for the relatively unskilled, one can shoot them in the room with poor aim, and the shot probably won't go very far beyond the room. And the sound alone when it hits the door is impressive to anyone attempting to enter.

[Upton]

73. I've got a pump shotgun that I use for home defense..

18" barrel, perfectly legal....works just fine for what it's designed to do..

[zipplewrath]

83. Pistol grip?

AIUI, it's really the pistol grip that crosses the line.

[Upton]

86. Nope..

Mossberg 500...regular stock..

[immoderate]

95. You can buy a Mossberg with a pistol grip -- legal.

Perfect for home defense. My recommendation is to get a light load. Shooting heavy shells with it will hurt your hand.

I have a gun. It's victims are over-ripe fruit, beer cans, and paper targets. Guns are not defensive weapons and I have a hard time picturing using it against a living being. Body armor is much better for defense.


--imm

[elocs]

84. Smart man, and you must be for marrying him. I'd go with his advice. n/t

[madmax]

103. I'm not known for 'listening' to him

;) but, in this case he would definately freak out.

[madmax]

129. Well, it's not going over too well

He's listening and we're talking. By this time tomorrow I may be in a white room with rubber walls. He won't go as far as I may but, he definitely thinks the country is going down the crappier and that the Tea baggers, Fox, and hate radio is going to be the cause of major problems. Oh honey, ya think?

I've been thinking a lot of Ms. Valle from the Paul Rand Stomp. Just wondering if she is the catalyst that brings the insanity of the wingers and baggers to the forefront. A Rosa Parks so to speak.

[TriMera]

8. I hate guns, but

I do have swords and knives and I know how to use them.

[Hassin Bin Sober]

77. So did this guy

:)

[TriMera]

79. .

B-)

[madmax]

132. Did you know that the scene wasn't supposed

to played that way?

Harrison Ford had diarrhea and wasn't feeling well that day so he decided to just do what he did and the director liked it and left it that way.

I heard that in an interview and lmao.

[madmax]

104. I have a few rolling pins and long meat forks

do they count? ;)

[TheKentuckian]

9. I make Charleton Heston look like a gun grabber, my friend.

I believe shooting, gun safety, gunsmithing, and ammo loading should be taught in elementary school and that the populace should be armed to a degree that they are a counter-weight to the combined force of the military and police.

But it has nothing to do with current events but a deep belief in checks at every feasible stop.

The surge in insanity just makes me want to get my liberal brothers and sisters to wise up and get off the punching bag mentality.

[Dappleganger]

31. I'm of the same mindset...

and am new to shooting (less than two years) but very actively training. We also enrolled our younger two kids in NRA classes at the range, and the older son (17) goes with us to the range fairly regularly. We haven't been able to convince the oldest daughter to shoot yet--she wants nothing to do with guns--but she carries mace and has had one edge class for self-defense. We plan on doing at least one intensive class together each year (more for me, because I really enjoy them and always learn something new).

[dgibby]

11. I've always owned a gun.

I'm almost 65, have handled guns since I was about 12. My dad was Chief of Police, taught me to shoot, but only for self defense. His rules were as follows:

Shoot to kill, not to wound.

Never go for the gun if the person is already too close to be able to get it away from you.

If you already have the gun in your hand, never allow the perp to get close enough to take the gun away.

Make sure the perp is at least half way into the house before you shoot (laws in some states have changed, but that was the law back then).

Would I follow his advice if my life was in danger? Absolutely!

I'd definitely take classes if I were you, since you say you have no experience with guns. Otherwise, you'll be more of a danger to yourself than anyone else would be.

[madmax]

38. You just gave me an idea

I have a neighbor who is also from NJ who relocated here. He's a retired Police Officer. He was offered Captain but, took early retirement instead. I should talk to him, too. Thanks!

[Caretha]

114. I was taught the same thing about guns you were

but with only one more rule.

Never point a gun at anyone unless you intend to shoot them.

[dgibby]

117. I was taught that, too, but forgot to list it.

Thanks!

[seabeyond]

12. nope. i am never afraid. might be foolish, but has worked for almost 5 decades.

one of the big problems i have with airports. i am suppose to be intimidated. i dont get intimidated. could cause issues. so i stay away.

plus, all my people own adn know guns. i dont need to.

[riderinthestorm]

15. No.

I have a .22 rifle that I inherited (I've told stories in other DU forums about it's uh, ineffectualness harming even small wildlife). I have maybe 30 shotgun shells. I keep it stored up in the barn office ceiling tiles since I have kids in the house and no way do I want it in the house.

I've never shot the thing, neither has my husband. Friends take it out every now and then to clean it for us and keep it in good order since it's a family heirloom (and nobody wants it YET in our family) so I feel more like a custodian than a gun owner.

All that said, I guess you'd say that I do have a gun but in terms of the teabagger threats, nothing has provoked me into knowing/handling/learning any more about weapons than I already do - which is nada.

[Obamanaut]

151. What will you do with 30 shotgun shells and a .22 rifle? The shells

won't do much damage if you throw them at an evildoer.

[guitar man]

16. Always have been

I grew up on a farm and learned to use and respect firearms from an early age. I own several weapons and keep a reasonable stock of ammo on hand. I enjoy shooting and am very proficient with all my arms.

I don't run around advertising that I'm packing heat or acting like some of these dumbass "gun nuts" I see all over the place lately. I have no desire for armed confrontation, but should anyone put me in fear for my life, or the lives of my wife and daughter for any reason, I will not hesitate to draw a weapon and kill them in self defense.

If this makes me a bad person, so be it.

[dixiegrrrrl]

17. I am not worried about "tea bagger violence" as much I am about economic problems

that would motivate more break-ins around here, which are on the rise.

Shotguns and rifles are common here, but the drug dealers all have semi-automatic type weapons and the noise of them at night is becoming more frequent.

Mr. d and I are debating about a gun. He is against, I am more comfortable with having one.

Right now we have a barking dog and live in a house that is not visible to our neighbors.

[madmax]

67. I have a Yorkie he's of a breed known for yapping

not my guy. Quiet as a mouse and he acts like a cat. Very aloof. I've had 4 Yorkies over the years and this guy is not your typical Yorkie.

[SammyWinstonJack]

113. I have 3 Yorkies...all very yappy..

Sammy Winston Jack.

Jack is a real ankle bitter...doesn't take to 'strangers' no matter how many times he has encountered them, in his house.

The other two... Sammy...she loves peeps

Winston...he tolerates.

[madmax]

134. I see a cutie at the bottom of your post

My Maxx defies his heritage. I've had 4 over the years. All yappers and one 4 lb. female, Emily. She was a mid-calf nipper. My girlfriend threatened to sue me. She didn't.

My screen namesake, Max was 4 when he died of renal failure. Kept the name for this guy because I was so used to saying Max that I didn't change the name. Max was very protective. Still miss that little bugger. :cry:

[CBR]

18. We will probably get a handgun. nt

[madmax]

49. That's what I was thinking. A hand gun.

Not going to join a militia or such. However, I'm out there protesting, made the front page of The Newark Star Ledger in NJ name printed, picture. I have a big mouth and talk politics everywhere, anywhere and with anyone. I don't want to be treated like Ms. Valle if someone decides they want to 'show me a lesson' mostly in my own home. In the streets I feel pretty safe despite what happened to Ms. Valle.

[petronius]

19. I already own firearms and appropriate ammo, and the teabaggers have not

had any influence on my decision-making in that arena...

[lightningandsnow]

20. No. I've had severe bouts of depression and that would be an awful idea.

If I were to become depressed again, what would I do?

[madmax]

42. No, no gun for you

I've dealt with depression years ago. It passed. Be kind to yourself :hug:

[uncommon]

21. I am considering the possibility that it could come to that.

The political climate in this country is at a tipping point right now and it could go either way. Hopefully this doesn't become an issue but I am very aware of what is happening and ready to fight if it needs to be that way.

I hope not though.

[madmax]

41. That is exactly how I feel nt

[arbusto_baboso]

22. Had guns for some time for this very reason.

Thought I'd never want to even look at one again after leaving the army, but I would still qualify as expert on an army rifle course.

[MineralMan]

23. Considering? I've been armed for decades.

Most people who will be armed are already armed. I used to hunt. I don't anymore, for a number of reasons, but I keep my firearms in excellent repair and have ammo for all of them on hand. I don't expect I'll need to use them to ward off an insurrection, though. I do have one in readiness in case of criminal activity involving a break-in of my home. That's unlikely, too, but far more likely that some armed force of wingers coming down the street.

Those who recognize the value in being armed already have arms. Those who do not probably won't acquire them or get trained in their use.

[tomg]

24. No. Honestly, I

wouldn't even consider it. I know a fair number who, if not Tea Party, are clearly sympathetic. The ones I know are obviously dead wrong, politically misinformed, voting against their own interests. Not one of them is violent. In fact, I have a token bet with one on the 2012 election.

To me, the really dangerous ones are the ones running for office and the various stormtroopers who work for them. The rise of right-wing militias and traditional hate groups are also serious. With that said, I am from a pretty liberal area. Finally, if things ever do get that bad, I'm siding with Gandhi.

[madmax]

105. Hopefully they won't win in Nov.

but, I don't know. I think I'll really make up my mind after the election.

[rucky]

25. It's worth a try. You have every reason to feel unsafe.

And every right to want to feel safe.

If it makes you feel safer, keep it around.
If it makes you uncomfortable, get rid of it or just keep it locked up somewhere.

I'm not a gun owner, but I realize my own comfort level and that it is a personal choice.

[JustAnotherGen]

26. I already am

I grew up in the care of hunter.

[FSogol]

28. Not afraid of tea baggers or their ilk.

[Dappleganger]

29. Already done.

As a woman, it does give me the sense of being on a more even playing field but it is certainly not a false sense of security. In FL it is fairly easy to get a concealed carry permit, and I have taken several intense classes not just for defensive shooting but also edge training. My husband and I go to the range about every other week to shoot for several hours (that's about all the ammo we can afford).

Please don't just go buy any gun--start out with something for target practice and go from there. I started out with a Browning Buckmark .22 pistol but Ruger carries some great ones too. Go to a gun shop and handle as many as they will pull out for you. You can also go to some ranges, rent specific models to try them out. .22's are great to begin with because of ammo costs and availability. Right now my main personal piece of mind is a Springfield XDSC 3" 9mm for most of the year, and a little Ruger LCP .380 for really hot days and when wanting more concealment.

Once again, please get involved with a good instructor who can teach you how to not kill yourself, LoL. You can probably find recommendations at most ranges and gun shops. Be prepared to be in the company of a lot of tea baggers, although I have met some at my range (including one instructor) who are strong independents and are only interested in giving the best classes they can. There are all types out there. Also get into a good self-defense class where you can learn about awareness and how to stay safe.

Personally, I think that every woman and GLBT out there should be either armed or with some kind of self-defense item where legally allowed. It used to be that I thought the police would keep me safe, but having been attacked before I know now that they only come after the fact (and in my city they have stated this numerous times--we are on our own for protection).

[madmax]

43. I appreciate all your advice and have made

a copy because you gave a lot of details re: gun, etc. Thanks.

[Pathwalker]

69. I asked for a gun for Xmas. My husband agrees with your choice.

I live with a gun owner, but have always been afraid of them. My husband, who's well aware of my fear, told me I would have to take a safety course first - I think to discourage me. He was surprised when I told him I was glad, and would pay for the class myself. I think if I'm going to own one that knowing how to actually use it for something other than a club would be a good idea, and would help with my fear. He just sat there staring at me for a few minutes, and finally said:
Clearly you've been thinking about this for awhile. I'll put it on your list." He began looking for one this morning. I'm tired of being afraid of guns, so I'm going to do something about it.

[Arkansas Granny]

30. No. I've never been in a situation where I wished that I'd had a gun.

I really don't expect to find myself in that kind of situation in the future. I've got nothing against guns, I just don't want one.

[slackmaster]

32. No, I'm not afraid of political violence

Remember, the Jewish people were optimistic and thought they could ride the storm. I'm getting a little paranoid.

I concur with your diagnosis.

[geardaddy]

33. No.

I can understand why some people might feel the need to though.

[kctim]

34. Instead of that

you should stop watching propaganda.
Al-Keeda isn't going to fly a plane into your home and some "Teabagger wing-nut" isn't going to attack it.

[madmax]

52. Oh fuck 'Al-Keeda I'm worried

more about home grown American assholes. I have Muslim friends, my girlfriend is married to a Muslim and has converted. My main fear is 'my fellow American's.'

[kctim]

96. Blah

Fearing you're fellow American's because of the actions of a few is just as dumb as fearing Muslims because some nuts blow themselves up.

My main fear is getting hit by a drunk driver, there is at least an understandable chance of that happening.

[county worker]

36. I think the terrorists won. Now we are going to shoot each other.

[rrneck]

37. Don't make a rash decision.

There's nothing wrong with owning a gun and I have no doubt you will be able to use it properly. It could come in pretty handy some day whether you have to use it against some political wingnut or just a common everyday assailant. But jut because they're playing the fool right now is no reason to change the course of your life in response to something you saw on Youtube.

Owning a gun changes your life. Owning any technology has that effect to some degree, but a gun more so. It's a big responsibility and the demands it will make on you will have a noticeable impact. Don't think you can just go buy one, take a few classes, put it in a drawer and that's it. It is a tool that requires practice to use properly. And if you are unfamiliar with guns, you've got a steep learning curve ahead of you. People who have been around guns all their lives might be able to just pick up a gun and get by, but you have a lot of experience to acquire to be safe and effective with it.

More importantly, are you prepared to kill someone? If you have to use a gun, you will have to use it with the expectation they will die. You will have to make peace with that idea or your efforts will be wasted and you might find yourself in a tactical situation that won't turn out so well.

Edit for lack of coffee.

[madmax]

47. That would be difficult for me

to take a life. I'd prefer to just wound them in the leg and stop them. More to consider - do I have the balls to kill someone. If someone where to try to harm one of my kids or grands. Yes, me? I don't know - it would cause pause.

I'm not concerned with someone robbing my house. Take what you want/need just don't hurt anyone. Tough times, people do desperate things. Robbing my house is not a concern of mine. I don't buy anything expensive as far a jewelry, which is what they're after. Easily carried away. Have never and will never buy a diamond anything. Blood Diamonds.

[rrneck]

50. Another note of advice.

If you get the gun and the training you'll hear all this anyway, but if you have to shoot somebody aim center mass. If you've ever seen those targets they use at shooting ranges with a bullseye superimposed on a black silhouette of a man you'll notice the bullseye is in the center of his chest. There's a reason for that. Under stress fine motor control erodes and you have to depend much more on muscle memory (training) to survive the encounter. Don't believe that crap in the movies about shooting the gun out of somebody's hand. If he has a gun and you shoot him in the leg his gun (or knife, club, fist) hand will still work.

I've never had to shoot anybody. I've never come close and I don't plan to, but I had a carry permit years ago and researched the issue a lot. Every source I have spoken with and everything I have read on the subject says pretty much the same thing:

If you have to shoot, aim center mass and keep shooting until the threat is neutralized.

[madmax]

55. I remember something to that effect in a movie

'Copycat' 'hit him in the bracial nerve, he drops the gun and your Karma is still in tact.' Center mass - right. The question I wrestle with now is do I have it in me to take a life and not just try to stop them. If I can answer that question honestly to myself then most likely will get one.

[deaniac21]

39. Just get the ammo. Stay away from guns.

[rrneck]

45. Heh. Reminds me of an old joke.

"My neighborhood was so tough they inserted the bullets manually."

[madmax]

56. lol gotcha nt

[AlinPA]

44. I've never seen the bitterness between political factions as bad as it is now- not even the

'60's. I am expecting there will be violence, republicans already threatened it at the Beck teabagger rally when they promised "the next time we come to DC we will be armed". The stomping and handcuffs is just the beginning for the republicans. They are crazed over having a person with dark skin in "their White House".

[madmax]

58. Yes, I lived the 60's

Riots everywhere and oh too much to relate here. Maybe my memories of the 60's has something to do with me wanting a gun now. I didn't feel the need for a gun then as you wrote it was bad but, this is worse.

[T Wolf]

46. Absolutely. Those who advocate against defending yourself are saying IBTL. I don't think so. nt

[blondeatlast]

66. Where? nt

[leftynyc]

48. Took care of that during

the last administration. I live alone with two cats who show no interest in guns so it is unlocked in the closet in my bedroom. I'm glad you're speaking about getting some training.

[donco6]

51. No,

[HuckleB]

54. No.

[RedCloud]

57. I think just techno their butts away.

[wicket]

59. Already armed.

n/t

[Edweird]

61. Look into 'practical shooting' competition. Not only is it a lot of fun,

it will keep your skills sharp - and that makes you safe for everyone around you.

[madmax]

64. 'Practical Shooting'

sounds nice. Know what I mean? Non threatening or anything. :)

[Edweird]

71. Here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPmCYEv2cKI

[Edweird]

76. better vid:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-uQ9t7sNng&NR=1

[madmax]

106. Oh man!

That's like war. I don't know if can handle that. I just want to be safe in my house. I didn't watch the whole video but, I bookmarked it and will watch later.

[flvegan]

62. I'm glad that if you do obtain a firearm, you'll get proper instruction.

I don't think being armed is a bad idea, so long as the gun owner is competent with their firearm(s).

[madmax]

63. No absolutely would take a course and learn

as much as possible about a gun. It's a heavy responsiblity and I don't usually do anything half-assed except for maybe housework.

If I do decide to go that route it's all the way and the right way.

[mstinamotorcity]

65. Responsible gun ownership

is something you must consider for your own protection. If you feel the need to be armed then having a weapon is not illegal. Its what you do with the weapon that brings in the legal stuff.
But guns are everywhere. So many people say they are scared. Fear.Fear.Fear. Why would you be scared of people you outnumber? So what their ass is acting crazy. Look the people stoking those fears are not in tune to the real world. We as a people need to stop giving these clowns the power. Meaning, we have the facts and the numbers with us. The people who are ginning up this false fear have everything to lose and more theft to gain. Everyone keeps talking as if all this is a real threat. Maybe I should ask Homeland security to put out an orange,or i mean red, or maybe yellow, hell i don't know. I said this to say you know that there are monetary powers that are agitating this election and peoples fears to heights beyond the normal level. Fear makes critical thinking skills clouded.
Personally, I am not scared of anybody doing a damn thing to me or my family,we are an army in itself.I have been through hard times before. Most of the people bellyaching have never been through anything like this recession or job loss. They have lived on restaurant food, hotels,credit cards,and payday advances. We had become an instant society. But people who know,know that the jobs are the last thing to rebound.

Gun ownership is a personal choice. If you feel the need make sure you take a gun safety class and get gun lock if you purchase a handgun. Keep shotguns in protective case with lock. You also don't need a permit to purchase a shotgun from any local gun retailer.

[madmax]

70. 'Fear makes critical thinking skills clouded.'

Thank you for your thoughtful post. I know I'm acting a bit irrational at the moment. It's not the first time I've thought about owning a gun but, it's the first time that I feel I may act on it.

Of course, you're right and maybe this will pass. I'm going to inform myself about guns, proper training, etc. I'll wait to see what happens after Nov. 2.

If I decide not to get one - no biggie. I've just informed myself about guns and safey - not a bad thing.

[mstinamotorcity]

93. Now you are thinking.

Guns are not always the bad thing. And yes some of the weapons used today are a bit intimidating. But educating yourself on weapons before ownership is best. Most people use shotguns for home protection and even those should be subjected to a gun safety course. You will be fine with or without a gun. And besides you can out think a teabagger any day of the week. You got the DU MadMax :hi:

[madmax]

136. You're a gem

I think this Rand Stomping thing has me freaked out. I've been telling my husband that these militias and seeing people wearing big guns strapped to their legs near Obama rallies - something I've never seen in my life, at any rally much less where POTUS is speaking.

A few years ago DU would post pics from FR of their 'rallies' and there would be a handful of twits and a porta potty. Now, it's different - they're bigger and they're seriously disturbed. It's scary.

If I thought law enforcement would act against them as they did against the Seattle protesters I wouldn't be as concerned but, I don't see that happening. We get free speech zones, tear gas, water hoses and clubbings!

[Upton]

68. You were robbed in the past

and you are just now thinking of arming yourself? How many more alarm bells need to go off?

Get you yourself a firearm or two. Preferably a shotgun and hand gun. And if you don't have children, don't worry about all this gun safe and trigger lock BS. I can tell you, somebody enters your home, and threatens you and your loved one...they're not going to be waiting for you to unlock it..

[madmax]

72. No small children

I wasn't home when the house was robbed so what good would a gun have done me? I don't have a lot of 'stuff' and 'stuff' isn't important to me.

Being robbed at gun point was part of an occupational hazzard. I worked in NYC for Delta Airlines - shift work. I couldn't very well pack heat in NYC working for an airline no less. lol This was back in the 80's before all the terorist bullshit but, non the less, I think it would be frowned upon - even them ;)

:hug:

[Upton]

80. If you feel safer

without a firearm in the home...don't get one. OTOH, having a gun stuck in my ribs, would be all the prodding I'd need. Sometimes burglars enter a residence assuming no one is home and find out differently. They often then precede to act irrationally. At that point, having a ready firearm in your home could save your life..Again though, it won't do much good if it's locked away somewhere. Just my opinion.

[madmax]

85. Ok, got it. Duh, I didn't think of someone

entering the home thinking no one was home. And hand gun in the house is what I'm trying to decide. Carrying now, that's another story. This subject is so foreign to me that it's hard to wrap my head around. I want to feel safe and with the current political situation I do not - at all.

That damn pesky Freedom of Speech - I'd like to see Glen Beck's mouth taped up but, then...

[AndyTiedye]

74. No

Bow and arrows.
If TSHTF I'd hole up here in the mountains until the assholes run out of bullets.

[sweetapogee]

75. Let's see,

for in-house protection, I use a Mossburg bantam 500 (youth) shotgun 20 ga. For back up I rely on a Remington 890 "Wingmaster" pump 12 ga. In both cases, the first thing out the barrel is bird, 2nd through 5th is buck. My main carry is a S&W 6904 autoloader in 9mm and I have a Taurus Mill Pro 140 (40 cal. S&W) and A Kel-Tec 32 "pooddle shooter" auto loader. I also have a BB in TKD and a blue in BJJ but would rather not get that close.


Around here the question isn't do you have a gun, it's what kind and how many? Another poster recommended a sawed off shotgun. Well, whatever you use, make sure it is 100% legal.

[madmax]

126. Hell, I should just hire you or

let you live in the guest room! It's only been used 3 times. It would be a hell of a lot easier. ;)

[FedUpWithIt All]

78. We are purchasing our first gun this week but not to arm ourselves against crazy people.

We feel that it is a good idea to have a rifle about due to possible economic/food instability. We eat very little meat now but feel more secure having hunting as an option should food scarcity become an issue.

The rifle we are buying is also an antique with a bit of history and i would actually consider this a bigger factor in our decision to purchase.

[supernova]

81. No, I already live in gun country

Have for close to 50 years now.

We have our differences, but people generally don't bring their guns to the town square here.

The SO and I debated this one evening early on. He self-identifies as conservative. That's a whole other post. LOL. The point is he was basically arguing for concealed carry. That such a community would be "safer," his words if a good majority or good sized minority of folks CC'd. My point was that if I learned that a significant portion of the people I rub elbows with casually on a daily basis were CC'ing, *I* would be the uncomfortable one. So much so, that I would want to move somewhere with people who were less paranoid.

IOW, the rural people and farmers that I know who do target practice and subsistance hunting, I feel completely comfortable with. Others who may enjoy carrying guns out to the grocery store, or the ball game or the pizza joint. I'd feel very much less comfortable with. For now there are more of the former here, rather than the latter. I hope it remains so.

[madmax]

87. Seeing people wearing guns

BIG GUNS strapped to their legs, in holsters at an Obama function took my breath away. That is some scary shit! And no one could stop that? In view of JFK,RFK,MLK. Our first AA President and people are carrying guns to rallies.

I think people 'mis-underestimate' these Teabagging scum. That's what's bringing all this gun ownership into my life.

[elocs]

82. Never had a gun, never will. Never felt fearful or paranoid enough to have one for protection.

I will not live my life in fear, I will not become like them.

If the shit hits the fan like that having a gun will give a false sense of security. You will live your life in constant fear and paranoia, always feeling you are under siege, never knowing who is around the corner or hiding. My guess is, though, that we probably have DUers who are as orgasmic over the prospect of this as the teahadists are.

[madmax]

88. I respect your opinion and value your input

I'm working this out and I know that DU is the place for me to be free to let my feelings out or my stupidy show without fear. With all our fighting and bickering and pet issues - we're still family. Hell, we reall are like family. lol With all the faults, love, fights.

Thanks to Skinner, Elad and EarlG - Gotta love these guys and give'em some props.

[Hassin Bin Sober]

90. I already have a 9mm handgun but I'm considering some sort of rifle.

Maybe an AR-15? But they seem expensive.

I don't have any illusions of using the weapons for home defense from home invaders or burglars etc. In fact, I'm more concerned with the weapons being stolen when I'm not home.

Although, there HAVE been some armed home invasions in my neighborhood in the last couple months - a friend of a friend was held at gun-point and tied up. That's made us more vigilant about locking windows and setting the alarm for "instant" at night - something we've done in the past and should do anyway. Regardless, if you are not walking around the house in slippers strapped with the weapon, what good is it going to do you?


Re: Tea-baggers. I don't know if that is the main reason for me wanting to be a little more heavily armed. Sometimes I think it's because I'm gay (though I worry more about my not so street-smart boyfriend driving around in the suburbs with his pride flag on his car - He's been verbally assaulted by high school punks).

Sometimes I feel like I should probably keep a weapon around in the event of some major catastrophe that causes a temporary breakdown in society. I have friends who were trapped in New Orleans hotel for several days after Katrina. The lack of any police presence for several days was enough to turn them from total gun-phobic to the "maybe it's not such a bad idea" category.

[Ikonoklast]

91. I have owned and used firearms since I was seven years old.

Dad used to hunt, is a Marine vet of Korea, used to do Civil War re-enacting, and is still an avid collector at age 81.

He was of the opinion that it is up to you to defend your rights as a citizen, and never expect someone else to do it for you, and passed that opinion down to his children.

I learned about firearms and the responsible use of them many years ago, but took a safety refresher course with my kids before I took them to the range.

You should see my daughter swing a twelve gauge around on a clay pigeon...waaay better than I ever could.




But we have seven kitties, and anyone looking for trouble would be found lying on the floor of the vestibule, horribly rubbed to death.


The horror.

[proteus_lives]

116. Virtually the same story here.

Dad was always an avid shooter and collector, Army Vet who served in Vietnam.

Taught me and my sisters how use firearms correctly and safely when we were kids.

"He was of the opinion that it is up to you to defend your rights as a citizen, and never expect someone else to do it for you, and passed that opinion down to his children."

My dad said pretty much the same thing. Only with more cursing.

Now I'm teaching my nephew to shoot.

[B Calm]

92. This old veteran is not afraid of those loonies!

[grahamhgreen]

94. No. Purchasing guns and ammo financially supports the military industrial complex.

[RobinA]

97. Last Time

I started feeling like I was living in Germany circa 1936 I applied for and got a passport, which will be kept up to date. I don't plan on being here for any shooting. I don't have that 1936 feeling at the moment, but things could change.

I fully expect the teabaggers to crash and burn before it gets to that point.

[madmax]

100. Hell, you just reminded me that I

don't even have a valid passport! Hope your feelings are spot on. :hug:

[kath]

176. Robin, if you read the articles mentioned in the thread I link below, and watch Olbermann's piece

showcasing all the Teabagger craziness, that 1936 feeling just might come back:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x9410816

Olbermann:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=385x519810

(on edit-- just realized that I didn't see ALL of Olbermann's comment -- the end is the link under "PART TWO" in the OP of the thread I linked above. The ending is very powerful.)

[KansDem]

99. Does a BB gun count?

I call it my "B-Bagger"...;)

[madmax]

101. LOL my grandson has one.

Aggravates the hell out of me that he does but, that was before I started thinking about a gun. My dil grew up around guns. She told me her parents did some type of target shooting but, I haven't asked her anything about it because I don't want them to know that I'm thinking about buying one. They don't have any except for the BB.

[SammyWinstonJack]

107. No. nt

[aikoaiko]

108. Firearms are good tools for self-defense if you ever need them

There are a lot of Democrats who have already armed themselves for any number of dangers.

[LanternWaste]

110. No.

For my own part, I'd perceive my purchase of a handgun or rifle to be a surrender of my own convictions, and thus illustrative of my own defeat.

(And for the proud alumni of the College of the perpetually Offended, the preceding statement implicitly applies to me alone)

[Rochester]

112. Yes, better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

This is one of the only issues I agree more with the evil (R)'s about. I'll give up the guns when they pry them from my cold, dead fingers!
Don't lock it up, either. Those few seconds fumbling with the keys might make or break your self-defense effort. Hide it someplace out of sight where it can't be found without a deliberate search, but you can find it instantly if you ever need to.

[XemaSab]

115. I have considered this, yes.

A shotgun is a good gun for a n00b.

[onestep]

118. First take a safety course!

Before ever buying a gun! Tell your spouse they are going with you also, and until they agree, sleep in the damn garage. I grew up with guns and you may both find it as a great sport. But buying from a fearful point of view, seems to be a knee jerk reaction which can lead to an unrealizable disaster. And always treat every gun as if it is loaded. The end of that barrel is a death ray that is on 24/7.

[madmax]

120. Solid sobering advice as are so many other

posts. I appreciate the advice both pro and con. Of course, it goes without saying that the safety course aspect is priority #1.

[L0oniX]

119. Already done. I have a CWP and carry all the time.

S&W MP9 for the range and a Kel-tec PF9 for carry. I need a 9mm carbine yet.

S&W MP9 http://www.texasgunrunner.com/resources/_wsb_235x176_Kel-Tec+PF9.jpg Kel-tec PF9

[madmax]

121. Talking about buying a gun and seeing

one in a pic bothers me - it's going to be really weird when/if I hold one in my hand.

Someone posted, better to have one and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Makes sense to me but, the thought of holding one in my hand is foreign as of now. I'm still working this through. No rush, they aren't planning the revolution overnight.

The Teabaggers won - they've driven me over the edge.

[lonestarnot]

122. LOL

[austin78704]

123. Personally, I refuse to hide behind one.

I think it's important to confront & resist the fear.

[madmax]

131. I felt that way too when I was

younger and thought I was a big bad ass. I'm not that old but, I don't think I'd win at arm wrestling.

[RagAss]

124. Been armed since I was of legal age to carry. Safety first is my advice....then..

Then get good at it. Have someone teach you point shooting, since you'll never have the time or dexterity to aim under the stress of a life and death situation. If you chose to carry a handgun, ammo selection is very important...and read...read...read.. the web is full of reliable information.

[madmax]

130. Since I've not worked in NYC in years and live

in relatively safe Wake County, NC, I don't go out at night - too busy on DU and watching KO and Rachel I don't feel the need to carry a gun. Just want one for the home.

It's the little things that make you go hmmmm. I had my Obama for President sign on my lawn and several people made comments which I just blew off. But, my neighbor stopped talking to me for a year. He's definately not violent and a reasonably nice guy and yet my Obama sign pushed him to not speak to me for a year?

I can only imagine what it might have been like if he were a rabid winger.

[nadinbrzezinski]

125. Weapons are not toys

But this goes into a myth. Many liberals already own weapons and know how to use them. Hell, many are vets as well.

The myth is that liberals don't serve and don't know how to use a gun, after all we'd not hunt. :sarcasm:

I'm not a hunter, but if you decide to get them, realize if you ever bring one out in anger you'd better pull the trigger, center of mass. Yes, shoot to kill. If you are not willing, don't.

Oh and for home defense, 12 gauge, nothing fancy but damn effective.

After that, then go take that safety course and learn how to care and feed for it...and it is always loaded.

[madmax]

127. Shotguns seem to be the consensus for home

protection, is it because of the scatter pattern? I think I'd be a terrible aim with a hand gun.

Now, shoot to kill.That's what I wrestle with.If I go through with this and get a gun - someone is trying to enter my home, yes, I know they have to be 'inside' if I shoot and kill them or even just shoot them. I have to be ready and able to shoot to kill. No aiming for the legs - center mass. A dilema. I'm not sure yet if I can kill someone. It would depend on my level of fear and the level of threat. This is why I posted this on DU and not just 'brain storm' more to the point bullshit with friends. I get no nonsense answers here. As always, thanks Nadine. :hug:

[nadinbrzezinski]

135. Yes it is the scatter pattern

And that is why you don't get solid.

Oh and any training you get will be center of mass. Trick shots are for the tv and the movies.

As I said, that's the first question. If you are not willing to pull trigger don't buy it. Any hesitation it will be used against you.

[madmax]

137. Right, shot by my own gun.

by an unarmed intruder. Yep, that would be me.

[Zephie]

133. Saddly, yes. I backed down on my no guns policy yesterday

Which made my husband ecstatic in a morbid way, as he's a former Gunners Mate... He also knows that my backing down signifies something terrible going on in the country, as I have been long anti-gun.

(Please no questions on how I ended up marrying a former gun nut - you can't help who you love :shrug: )

[madmax]

138. LOL

You forgot that part on your wish list. :hug:

[old mark]

139. I have enjoyed guns and shooting for over 50 years. I see some of the RW posts

in the political forums on various gun oriented sites. There are many posts suggesting the extremeists - especially those who believe they are "religious" have serious intentions to kill Democrats either after they lose or even if they win the next elections.

If you are not at least seriously considering defending yourself and your home, you are living in a fantasy world. They really hate us and they are really nuts...they believe god hates us, too and wants them to take over the country one way or another.

FWIW, the idea that all Democrats are afraid of guns or hate guns is bullshit. Quite a few members here are gun owners, and many of us carry firearms.


mark

[DLine]

140. I'm already armed...

Always have been. But even with as crazy as the righties are I don't worry I will need them and I certainly didn't purchase my guns out of fear of anybody.

[defendandprotect]

141. Jews had been persecuted by Christians for thousands of years ...

NOT something that happened suddenly -

the ground had been well saturated with hatred for Jews by the Vatican which

keep them in Jewish ghettos for 1,100 years -- and then when the Papal Ghettos

were closed by first the French and then the Italians, the Pope went into exile

and when he came out, he announced Papal Infallibility .... and began a 100 year

war of propaganda against the Jews!



ONLY the right wing benefits when we become so fearful and hate-filled that we

begin to act like them!

[madmax]

144. Thank you - great post.

Organized religion - it's a killer.

I do get your point. Thanks.

[defendandprotect]

148. Remember ... Vatican also gave us capitalism ... just a few hundred years ago ...!!

Patriarchy and its underpinning =

organized patriarchal religion and its economic system =

capitalism

_________________

The Unholy Trinity!!



:)

[madmax]

142. I've gotten so much good information

Many posts brought up things I hadn't even thought about - that's a good thing. I respect all those who are anti-gun for whatever reason and those who choose to own a gun and are responsible for whatever reason.

I've never been anti-gun per se. AK-47's and such I've been against, not needed to hunt deer. Now I'm thinking of owning a gun. It's good to have choice wheather it's over ones body (abortion) or the ability to defend yourself. It's personal and it should be respected.

Still haven't made up my mind but, I'm leaning maybe ;) Have to talk to the spousal unit who will freak out, but listen and tell me his view. Then we'll do it my way ;) j/k We'll work it out.

[HEyHEY]

143. I prefer to kill with my bare hands

[madmax]

145. That's because you're so big and strong.

You're the 800 lb. Gorilla in the room :P

[HEyHEY]

146. Not just big and strong, but also too poor to afford ammo/

[madmax]

154. Oh hell

I just saw your avatar - you live in Canada. If the shit hits the fan here my family is moving in with you ;)

[wickerwoman]

147. Try watching To Kill a Mockingbird again...

remember the scene were Scout pulls out the sawed-off shotgun and caps half a dozen of her neighbors. That was fucking awesome!

In all seriousness, you don't stop an angry, ignorant mob by escalating the violence. You look people in the eyes and you deal with them. They're a bunch of cowards having a very public meltdown which is being hyped up by the media to sell commercial time. Nobody is going to storm your house or attack you in a way that the police can't deal with.

Turn off the news, go to the park, smile at a complete stranger, volunteer at a food bank, go borrow a cup of sugar from your neighbor. Not that much has changed. Really it hasn't.

[Name removed]

150. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[madmax]

160. That is one helluva post!

You struck almost every nerve and to take the time and interest in my dilema, it's touching. :hug:

As it's been pointed out, if I'm not able to shoot to kill then perhaps a gun is not such a good idea. For your average purse snatching type situation I'll get some pepper spray.

My brother in law is gay, lives in NYC and doesn't carry. He's street smart and stays aware of his surroundings. I'm sure if I asked him if I should buy a gun he'd say no. He produces plays and isn't very interested in politcs except for GLBT issues and he votes. I think we all have our pet issues.

I haven't seriously talked to the husband about the gun issue. I think now it's mute. As you pointed out, I'm not in any grave danger that I should get a gun. The fear is a bit over blown. I need to chill the hell out because, reflecting on a worse case scenario - I would hesitate to shoot to kill and thus end up dead myself. Need to let it go and trust that the powers that be and the pressure of decent Americans will win.

If the Revolution should happen, I'll feed and shelter the warriors.

Thank you - be safe. :hug:

[madmax]

155. Watching Ed's show from yesterday - tivo'd

You may be right - I spent a few weeks without watching the political shows. Instead I watched Bones and other shows I like. It made a big difference.

Oh, The Ed Show - he's showing another Dem being tackled by 3 Police Officers at a Cantor rally.

I'm weak, this violence sucked me in and has made me crazy. I wasn't like this a few years ago. At a protest rally again W in NJ there were sharp shooters at the top of the buildings and some w supporter was giving shit and telling me that those 'guys' would shoot me and I yell up at them and yell shoot me and I didn't take any crap from her either. What the hell! I've lost my nerve.

I'm going to give it a rest. The world will continue to spin on it's axis without me for a few days. I'll stick to the organizing projects I've started here at home. Closets and dresser drawers. That's my speed now.

Thanks for another dose of reality. :hug:

[Connie_Corleone]

164. I've been doing the exact same thing...watching Bones and Law & Order reruns.

I haven't watched any political shows in weeks because I'm sick of all the craziness going on. I'll be glad when this election is over.

[madmax]

171. Oh honey, you and me both.

Bones, Leverage, L&O and a few other are my favorite escapes.

[madmax]

157. I've watched it and not too long ago

Scout looks like my grandaughter when she was that age. That was awesome and my girl has guts just like that - she takes after me when I was younger ;p

Just found out yesterday that my 15 yo grandson watches the Daily Show and Colbert. I almost fell over! My daughter in law doesn't watch it so she said, 'that's comedy' he replies 'it's the real news - it's awesome'. OHMY!! I'm proud of those kids.

[Raine]

149. I already have plenty of guns

I inherited them from other family members and I'm keeping them.

[Scuba]

152. Took care of that during Reagan's years. n/t

[malaise]

153. Why are you allowing the real welfare kings and queens

to frighten you. ReTHUGS are the real cowards. Their only tool is fear.

[madmax]

156. I'm begining to realize that, malaise.

It's morning - a new day - new feelings. I'm going to forget all this stomping and crazyass wing-nut stuff for today. My head needs a rest.

There are good people in this country, even on the other side. The Teabaggers are getting a lot of attention but, as someone here posted. We do outnumber them. :hug:

[Scuba]

172. True, true, true. n/t

[Le Taz Hot]

158. No.

Imho, guns only escalate the problem.

[Upton]

159. Check out the audio of this woman's 9/11 call

listen to the fear in her voice as she hides in the bathroom with her child, while two intruders rummage through her home. In this case, the police arrived in time, but that doesn't always happen. Despite what the anti-gun folks would have you believe, there is absolutely nothing wrong with being prepared for the worst..

http://www.kirotv.com/video/25332740/index.html

[madmax]

161. Have heard similar calls

over the years. Horrible.

[marmar]

162. Fire on gasoline.....

......and I don't really think that handguns would have helped Jews in Nazi Germany, if that's what you're suggesting.

[Fearless]

163. No.

[ScreamingMeemie]

165. My husband shot himself with a gun that we owned.

So, there's your answer. It can happen to anyone at anytime. I used to be supportive of the idea as long as they were locked up with ammo not nearby. I was wrong. People can snap. The steadiest of people (my husband) can snap. I urge you not to.

[RiverStone]

166. No --- never owned a gun. Don't see a reason to start now.

[ileus]

167. been armed since I was 13....

After getting caught flat footed last year, I don't make a trip to WM without bringing home at least 50 rounds of ammo.

But all this hyperbole from the survivalist to this thread make me laugh....SHFT, TEOTWAWKI, 2012 ect...are all just a big load of imagination. Relax the tea party isn't going to send out patrols to shoot liberals, obama isn't going to send out patrols to round up teabaggers for the FEMA camps. 12-21-2012 is a non-event.


That being said, arm yourself, get trained, and carry...it never hurts to be ready for a self-defense situation and it's never hurts to show your support for the second amendment.

[madmax]

168. A new day - same ol stuff, but I made a decision

At this time the consensus is, if I'm not able to shoot to kill then don't get a gun.

Right now, I'm not ready to go that far, maybe I never will.

So many offered advice that I'm able to put them all together and feel comfortable with the knowledge that I'm not ready to own a gun or use one therefore, I won't act based on fear and/or stupidity.

As a few DU'ers suggested - more or less, take a deep breath, chill, relax and words to that affect. I'm going to take that advice.

I love DU - I was devastated after 2000. The USSC was my awakening. I lost complete faith in our Justice system and our country. I always knew we were a bit screwed up but, seemed we would get back on track - for a little while at least. DU was a haven for me, I found others who were able to articulate my anger and despite what the MSM was telling us that all was fine and dandy, it was not and we were not.

Now the craziness of this new Tea Bagger movement and the violence. Candidates who have a chance to make life altering decisions for us but, are dumber than a box of rocks are leading in some polls in some states. It's crazy!

Thanks for taking the time to reply to my post. :grouphug:

[Rebubula]

169. LOLZ at the irrational fear!!!

There may be some violent assholes in the Tea movement...but it is not like they are going to be roaming the streets looking for gays and minorities to kill.

Seriously...what the hell? You ARE over reacting.

Now...if you decide to crash a teaparty rally or something - well, then you might want to take a weapon. Other than that - stop being such a chicken little.

[madmax]

170. That isn't at all what my OP was about

I realize it's a long thread and you may have picked up bits and pieces that went off in a few different directions. :hi:

[Tsiyu]

173. Lots of liberals have guns

I've had guns in the house for years, even with six kids in the house.

I will always have firearms. I will not end up outlined in police tape on my own property, but someone else might if they threaten me or mine.

Not a gun nut here, just a realist in this crazy society.

[cottonseed]

174. You're going to end up shooting yourself, someone close to you, or an innocent.

This gun will never be used. And if it is, will not be used as intended.

A 61 year old person does not need to think about getting a gun. No good will come of it.

[kath]

175. madmax, have you read the article discussed in this thread?:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x9410816

I'm more than a little concerned as well. Reading Sara Robinson's articles, after seeing Olbermann's piece the night before, has me pretty freaked out.
Hubby and I hate guns though.
Don't know what to do. I do have an application for Irish citizenship pending - hope that comes through soon, then it takes a few more months to get the Irish passport. Hope it gets here in time...
:scared: :scared:

[madmax]

177. I read the post and want to read the

article but, for some reason today all hell is breaking loose around here and I want to read it calmly.

Don't know why but, during the campaign of 2000 and then the recount, the congressional aids (thugs) storming the election office and claiming voter fraud and all the bullshit that went down with that recount. In the pit of my gut and thoughts in my head screamed, fascism is coming to America.

Hang in there - I'm not going to get a gun or leave, just yet. I still have a sliver of faith that sane right will overcome wrong.

I posted something similiar to this on this thread.

Ms. Valle may well be a catalyst to bring this very un-democratic behavior to the forefront. I went so far as to write that she may be this movements Rosa Parks. Ms. Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus. One wouldn't think that was such a big deal - but, it was BIG F'EN DEAL, as our VP likes to say. One woman - made a difference and started something that no one, no way could stop.

:hug:

[meeshrox]

178. No, didn't even cross my mind for that reason.

The hubby and I have considered getting a gun for protection for quite some time, but it wouldn't be just because of the teabaggers.

If you are feeling paranoid, the gun may not help...some people start feeling like they have to have it around all the time to feel safe. I think having one reinforces fear with some people (not saying for you, but in general). That happened with my hubby's roommate long ago, although he was a dumbass, he carried it in his pants to the mailbox 'just in case'. :rofl: