@Shotgunner75asked: Do you like guns?

So, this is a delicate subject, and I am somewhat hesitant to answer. But I also think it's important that we as people have an open and respectful discourse about the conversation of guns. Let me preface this by saying that I will NOT allow this to become a place for conflict to breed. Differing opinions are fine, but the second I see disrespectful and rude speech come from anyone, I will start blocking people. I am fine with hearing all sides of the conversation, so long as we can keep it civil.

Whether or not you posed your question politically or recreationally, I think it is important that I give an answer to both. Now, I want to make it clear that I do not identify with any political party. I think politicians as a whole are largely corrupt and most (not all), are in it solely for personal gain and greed. That being said, when it comes to the conversation of guns, I am of the mind that stricter regulations are needed in the United States.

This does NOT mean that I think guns and other firearms should be banned. The possession and right to carry firearms is a constitutional right that should not be inhibited. However, I think there should be a more regulated process involved in the purchasing of guns. It is easier to buy a gun in the United States than it is to obtain a driver's license. I think that the ability to purchase firearms should come with a requirement that one obtain a license that certifies they have taken a course about how to properly handle a gun, as well as proper storage and the numerous responsibilities that come with owning a firearm. 

Furthermore, I personally do not understand why citizens have the ability to purchase military grade weapons. I don't see a reason for non military personal to own fully automatic weapons. I have heard the argument that it gives the government power by not allowing citizens access to this caliber of weapon, but that logic isn't enough to convince me. The idea that anyone could be in possession of a weapon capable of killing hundreds of people in a matter of seconds is a thought that truly terrifies me. That being said, I recognize that it is a right covered by the constitution and that people are unwilling to surrender that right. I understand that. 

Outside of politics, do I enjoy guns for my own personal enjoyment? To be honest, it's neither really here nor there. I'm not a fan of hunting, not because I think it's morally wrong, but simply because I don't derive enjoyment from it. I go to the shooting range occasionally and own a Remington 870 for skeet shooting, and my sister owns several handguns and I go to the range with her every now and then. Again though, sport shooting isn't something I'm passionate about. I have fun, but it isn't what comes to mind when I want to go do something.

That being said, I do enjoy it. It is fun to shoot a gun. I particularly enjoy shooting rifles, though I am a terrible shot. But my passion will always be the martial arts. That's where my mind is always at, and I would rather practice joint locks and throws than my shooting any day of the week. 

In short, I think America has a problem that needs to be addressed in concern to the number of mass shootings, though I understand this isn't solely an issue with guns, though I do believe there are things we can do on that end to help. I have fun when I go skeet shooting or to the range, but if I never did it again, I wouldn't be that upset.