With Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New years snooping around the corner, it’s that time of year again when you get together with your family and discuss several topics. But if you are a gun owner or 2A advocate, one thing that is sure to come up at these family gatherings is firearm use and the rights surrounding it.
Today, we are going to discuss tips on how to be a responsible gun owner at such family gatherings and among friends. We’ll cover what to say, what not to say, and most importantly, how to keep and carry your firearm. So let’s get to it. The first tip is:
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Don’t Be A Jerk, remember this is your family
The first thing you need to know is when it comes to family gatherings or holiday getaways is that you are sure to engage in conversations with people that have anti-gun views, especially when they know you are a 2A model or a pro-gun advocate. Many of their anti-gun views and beliefs are birthed out of misinformation from the media. They ask you questions and make statements that may or may not annoy you.
It’s important for you not to patronize them or make them feel little due to their views and beliefs. Instead, you need to show a positive mindset. Don’t yell out your points or engage in violent arguments. That just makes you come off as aggressive. Instead, be assertive and confident.
Also, don’t engage in political discussions. I can’t say this enough. Trying not to play into the whole NRA propaganda through political discussions just sets you up for failure because, for every political view or pro-gun legislation that you manage to bring out, the other person will have 2 or 3 legislations to counter that. This is because there are more gun-control laws out there than pro-gun laws.
Another thing to do is to expose people with opposing views to positive posts, magazines, videos, and media like the articles on this website. Ensure to show them videos and articles relating to firearm safety and training.
Many of those that disagree or are on the fence when it comes to the second amendment and pro-gun rights are afraid of guns because they see them as tools that cause misery and harm. Now, you need to change that narrative by exposing them to videos that discuss firearm safety, regulations, and proper firearm usage and control.
They need to understand that firearms shouldn’t be feared and the best way to do that is to show them media that is both entertaining and educating.
You should also explain how carrying a firearm doesn’t make you aggressive or volatile as the media makes people believe. Instead, the firearm is a part of your rights as a US citizen and the firearm is in your possession for protection.
Also, ensure to get your facts and information right. There is a host of misinformation and propaganda out there being spread by the NRA, publication houses, TV news, and social media. The last thing you want to do is to add to these lies and false information. what to say when questions are asked
You should also share posts and videos about people who have saved their own lives or the lives of others through the use of a firearm. Give examples of individuals that used their firearms for good. There is already a host of examples of negligent discharge and firearm-related injuries. You need to make them understand that these injuries and accidents were caused by users who didn’t pay attention to firearm safety rules.
If you don’t follow safety rules, accidents will happen not just with firearms but with every tool. You should also drive home your point by explaining the golden firearm safety rules and regulations.
Take Them To The Shooting Range. Nothing changes a person’s mindset about something than trying the thing. A high percentage of first-time gun users that go to the range give positive feedbacks about enjoying the experience.
Also, when you get to the range, start them off with the most basic practices. You can let first-time users handle a 22’ caliber. Don’t start them off with an AR-15 or a shotgun. These firearms have heavy kickbacks and can be heavy to handle. If you start a non-gun user with an AR or shotgun, you’ll only increase their fears of firearms and make them play into the NRA nonsense.
You should also use something fun to shoot at. During target practice, don’t use any target that looks like a human or animal. Instead, use cans, balloons, and other fun targets. You can also play fun games like paintball, battleship, and poker. This shows them that humans aren’t targets.
Also, the person doesn’t have to shoot at the range. Merely watching others practice and shoot is a huge step for a non-gun user. Remember to always follow safety regulations at the range.
Finally, be a responsible 2A model. Invite them to firearm training sessions, instruction classes, and the likes. This helps to arouse their interests. Remember, you don’t need to force ideas or beliefs on anyone. Merely showing them is enough.
Let’s check out some other tips to prevent firearm-related accidents:
Keep Your Firearm Locked in a Safe
The first thing to do is to keep your firearm locked in a safe. It’s important to keep the firearm in a place where it can be easily accessible by only you in case of emergencies. With different people snooping around the house, the last thing you want is an unauthorized person handling your firearm. So much can go wrong with this. It’s better to keep your firearm in a safe with biometric or pin security.
Always Keep The Safety On
It’s better not to keep the firearm loaded but if you must, ensure to keep the safety on. This prevents the firearm from discharging even if the trigger is pulled accidentally.
Remember Your Firearm Safety Rules
Always remember the golden firearm safety rules whenever you handle the firearm, go to the range, or do anything firearm-related. This will ensure you spend more time at dining tables and family functions than waiting hours at the nearest ER.
Final Words
Overall, you don’t have to be a jerk or a pain just becasue there are people with opposing views. Always take the high road and be a good 2A model. Also, pay more attention to individuals sittinng on the fence. You know, people who are unsure and people willing to try. So there you have it. If you liked this post, ensure to check out others like it on the website for more firearm-related tips. Have a great holiday.
