Ladies and Pistols
Posted on | September 24, 2012 | 32 Comments
I grew up in a household where guns were kept. My dad has a mini-arsenal, and he has always enjoyed hunting. I often ate venison brought home after a hunting trip, and I learned how to skin a deer at a young age. Dad taught me gun safety when I was a little girl. He got me a membership to the NRA before I knew what the “NRA” meant. I never touched his guns. I never went near them. I had a healthy fear and respect for guns that I maintained my adult life. Friends weren’t allowed to know where guns were kept. There was no, “Hey, wanna see my daddy’s guns?” And because of where and how I grew up, the majority of my friends came from families with similar backgrounds. I never experienced being at a friend’s house and feeling uncomfortable because of a lack of gun safety.
Despite all the years of being in the vicinity of guns my entire life, I never shot one. Before Taylor left for his first deployment, he got our rifle out and taught me how to load it. With shaking hands, I attempted to handle a gun that was far too big and powerful for me. I had such little (no) experience, that a gun of that size was just out of my league. But it was all I had, and he wanted to be sure I knew what to do in the case of an emergency. The size and power of the rifle scared the shit out of me, and thank God, I never had to touch it again. When he came home, I stopped worrying about learning how to use it. I assumed he would always be around to protect our little family, and I never took any interest in learning how to defend us myself.
But as the years passed by, and as I spent many a night alone while Taylor was training, I realized that I needed to learn how to use a gun that I feel comfortable handling. I asked around to all my girlfriends and realized that there were various situations, none of which were really great:
1) They depended on their husbands/boyfriends to take care of them, and even though there was a gun in the house, they didn’t know how to use it.
2) They had no gun in the house but still expected their husband/boyfriend to defend them no matter the threat.
3) They had no gun in the house and no husband/boyfriend and were relying on a dog/alarm system/frying pan to keep them safe.
Listen ladies, there is very little in this world more important than knowing how to protect yourself against a threat of harm or sexual assault. You can do all the basics; lock your doors, buy a big dog, keep a kitchen knife in your hand, whathaveyou, but none of these things are sure. Door locks can be jimmied. Alarms can be by-passed. Dogs can be hurt, killed, or bribed into leaving an intruder alone. A knife? Do you really want to have to get that close to someone if they are trying to hurt your or your babies? I know I don’t. Yes, your own gun can be used against you. But by learning how to be comfortable with your gun, you are greatly reducing your risk of having it used against you. By learning how to quickly access risks and dangers, you are reducing your chances of being a victim.
So a couple weekends ago, I signed myself up for a Ladies Pistol Course. Several of the women in the FRG joined me, and we headed out to a shooting range during the early hours of a Saturday morning. We spent the entire day (over ten hours) learning pistol safety, how to load and unload magazine clips quickly and efficiently, how to safely disarm, how to arm, how to rack, how to load bullets in a magazine, how to handle recoil, and how to be a pretty damn good shot. Admittedly, the first time I handled a pistol, even one with dummy bullets, I felt adrenaline course through my veins, and my palms were drenched in sweat. I was scared of the gun. I knew what it could do, and I didn’t want to do anything that could hurt someone.
But as we learned more and more about how gun “accidents” rarely happen and are more often the result of negligence, and as we learned what it took the fire the gun safely and all the basic safety rules, I felt comfortable. Aware of the power, but relaxed that I was being educated on how to handle that power effectively. I felt empowered. The knowledge I was gaining allowed me to control something that had once scared me.
(faces hidden to protect identity)
We all qualified for our Concealed Carry permits. Many of us are already signed up for the next Tactical Pistol class. I can’t wait.
Ladies, I urge you, even if you don’t want your Concealed Carry permit. Even if you’ve always been scared of guns. Even if you’ve never seen a gun in person. Take one of these classes. You will learn so incredibly much. You may change your entire opinion on gun ownership if you’ve been against it before hand. Remember, law abiding citizens not owning guns doesn’t stop criminals from owning guns.
So tell me, how do y’all feel about gun ownership? Is it something you’ve been comfortable with or something that makes nervous? I’d love to hear your opinions.
Comments
32 Responses to “Ladies and Pistols”
"I'm a twenty-five-year old mama to two little boys and married to the love of my life. I have a serious Diet Coke addiction and a tendency to overshare. My biggest dream is to write a book. A good book that tons of people buy and relate to and love. In the mean time, this is the story of us as we flounder through raising our wild, little boys, moving a million times, and buying and renovating our 1968 Ranch home."
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September 24th, 2012 @ 7:07 pm
GREAT post! So proud of you for learning how to properly handle a fire arm! Seriously…more women need to do this. I don’t own a hand gun for myself, but my husband does and I have access to it and I know how to use it. I’ve grown up hunting/shooting/etc and we’re already teaching my 4 year old all about gun safety. It is SO important. She even owns her own gun (talk about an unpopular opinion!).
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 12:59 pm
Hey, Sully has a Red Rider BB gun
September 24th, 2012 @ 7:56 pm
Totally agree. I was in the Army for almost 7 years before I became a Mom and wife. Before that I was a crunchy gal from Portland Oregon who was raised to think that people who owned guns hat to be bad. That changed of course, and my Mom quietly accepts that weapons are apart of our lives as a Military family. and I have two sons who find the most inventive ways to make EVERYTHING a gun! So yeah, unless you are Lara Croft, or you are just that cool, it is almost always safer for woman to use guns instead of knifes. I am pretty petite (something I just admitted to recently btw) I know how to do the basic safety stuff with all the guns we have in our house, but admittedly, I really want to take the concealed weapons course. I think a ‘Gals & Guns’ weekend would be a hoot! Thanks for shedding some light on the topic. Also, where did you take the course?
September 24th, 2012 @ 8:17 pm
My parents raised us on a vegetarian diet. The only person who owns a gun in my family is my uncle. I have no interest in owning or using a gun. But you better believe I will learn to use a crossbow- in the event of the zombie apocalypse.
While my personal view is very different from yours, I can actually relate to it. We might not agree, but I will continue to think you’re awesome.
September 24th, 2012 @ 8:19 pm
I’ve never been a fan of pistols but Mike started buying them and has encouraged me to be comfortable with them. When I get a break between breastfeeding and pregnancies, I’d like to get a carry permit. We live in a “safe” area and my husband is home the majority of the time but I want to be able to protect myself and my babies if neccessary. Great post!
September 25th, 2012 @ 12:52 am
<3 it! I have been a proud CCW permit holder for almost 5 years. Wednesday I'm actually going to get a new one for the state we just moved to.
I could not agree with you more. There is fear that stems from ignorance, or healthy respect that comes from knowing about firearms and their safe handling. Even if you don't own or want to own firearms, learning how to handle them SAFELY is extremely important. As is teaching your kids how to respect and be safe around guns. Just because you don't own any doesn't mean your kids friends families feel the same. Gun safety is for everyone!
September 25th, 2012 @ 10:47 am
I always have this dilemma. I hate guns. Having seen the damage they do working as a nurse and in life, I just don’t like them. I don’t like to handle guns, I don’t like having one in my house. Etc. BUT. There is one is my house. I do know how to use one. Because you just never know. Glad you took a class, everyone should.
September 25th, 2012 @ 11:22 am
I love this post. I grew up in a house where guns were kept and my dad also taught us how safely to use each type of gun he had and that under no circumstances were they ever, ever toys. We don’t currently have any in our house because my husband was not raised in a house with guns and I want us to both take a course together before we even think about bringing one in to our house. Our kids will grow up knowing about & respecting guns as the powerful weapon they are. They will learn that they are not ever toys and how to safely and properly use them. Just like I was.
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 12:56 pm
I love reading stories like this. Education is key!
September 25th, 2012 @ 12:27 pm
My husband recently got his concealed carry and I’m a pretty good shot – but there are no guns in our house. We own a few, but between the strict gun laws in our state, the cost of a high end gun safe and two small children I’d rather they live somewhere else. No matter how comfortable I am around a gun, storing it in my nightstand, underwear drawer or anywhere else accessible is just inviting an accident. What good will my antique dueling pistol do me if it’s locked in a safe in my basement, the ammo is locked in a separate safe, and the attacker is in my bedroom?
I DEFINITELY agree that taking a class and understanding gun safety and the mechanics of a gun is a great idea – if you came across a gun it’s extremely valuable info to know if it’s loaded – but counting on one for self defense isn’t always a great idea.
September 25th, 2012 @ 12:28 pm
I personally am not a fan of guns, however my husband would like to purchase one (he used to have one) and have me learn to use it. I do not judge those who do use / have them, but growing up, there were a lot of irresponsible people where toddlers were accidentally shooting themselves and teenagers participating in suicide pacts. It’s very sad. I think teaching our children about gun safety is incredibly important. Unfortunately as crime continues to rise, I’m sure there will be a day where I find myself in a class.
I must say you have a great shot after looking at your target!
September 25th, 2012 @ 12:31 pm
Eeep! While I am a strong opponent of the 2nd amendment and would never, EVER consider owning a gun- props to you for taking a class. Seriously, that is responsible (not to mention badass) and I think it should be a requirement to qualify for gun ownership.
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
May I ask why not? I respect your opinion. Just curious
September 25th, 2012 @ 3:24 pm
Congrats on getting your permit! Both of my parents have theirs, and as soon as I meet the age requirement I’m getting mine.
I think everyone should know how to use a gun (women especially), and I’m sure as soon as my fiance and I are married and move, there will be one somewhere in our apartment just for safety.
September 25th, 2012 @ 6:02 pm
Congrats! I have such mixed feelings on this issue. On the one hand I can totally see your side, and do support most forms of gun rights.
From a personal perspective, though, I don’t know that I could ever own a gun. My cousin killed himself when he was 16 with one of his father’s hunting rifles. I can’t help but wonder if he would be here today if not for the guns in the house, regardless of how safely he was taught to handle them. I don’t think I would risk it with my children, although I understand that there are also risks to NOT having one.
Anyways, I’m glad for your great experience!
September 25th, 2012 @ 7:23 pm
I have shot a gun, and have never felt uncomfortable around them, but I refuse to have one in my home. Couldn’t imagine it.
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 10:08 pm
Why? What is so wrong with having them in a home? I respect everyone’s opinions, but no one has given me a legitimate reason as to why guns are inherently evil and shouldn’t be in the home of a family.
Here’s the thing, 13% of robberies are of homes with occupants. Over 50% of those criminals are armed. If this happens to you, what is your plan? Are you bringing a knife to a gun fight? What if they break into your childrens’ room and are hurting your babies? Gonna call the cops?
Too late.
Like I said, I respect opinions, but I just don’t understand why a woman wouldn’t want to be armed.
September 25th, 2012 @ 8:44 pm
What a great post. I remember the first time I ever saw a gun, I was at a friend’s house. His dad was a cop, we were teenagers, and he brought it out to show us. I freaked out and ran out of the room, and wouldn’t come back in until he showed me it was unloaded. I have always felt uncomfortable around guns – always. I wasn’t taught gun safety as a kid. My husband made me learn to shoot his gun when he still had it, but I don’t remember the first thing about it. Thanks for sharing this – this is a really good and empowering reminder for all women to take their safety into their own hands.
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 11:53 pm
You know, unless the dad was right there, a teenager should never have access to a fun. I’m glad yall were fine and that the situation didn’t scar you into not letting your husband teach you. I encourage you to keep trying until shooting is something not scary and foreign!
September 25th, 2012 @ 9:29 pm
I wasn’t raised around guns and know my parents never owned any, but once I started dating my now husband I was exposed to all sorts of weapons because his father lives on a huge farm. I have practiced with various types of guns on the farm and in the shooting range but still could learn a lot. Carter got his first gun at five days old but it will be a LONG time before he ever sees it or even knows it’s in the house! Good for you for taking charge and learning what you need in order to keep yourself safe.
Sally Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 11:50 pm
Yes. What a good story! I love this!
September 25th, 2012 @ 9:58 pm
I think you did the right thing. Im pro gun but sadly there are too many in the hands of those who shouldnt have them. Congrats to you for being a responsible gun owner. Don’t forget to work on your non gun deadly hand to hand combat skills
you never know xo
September 25th, 2012 @ 11:58 pm
Suicide is a horrible, indescribable act. Taylor also had a cousin who took his own life at a young age with a gun. We have had a more recent experience with suicide that has been heart breaking. Unfortunately, it isn’t an issue that can be solved by simply not keeping a gun in the house. I am a big advocate of keeping a gun away from children of all ages unless completely supervised. At twenty-six, I still don’t have access to my father’s guns. By knowing how to safely keep a gun in the house, your fear of tragedies like this might diminish.
September 26th, 2012 @ 4:06 pm
I had never even seen a gun up close until my husband decided to buy one. We discussed it for years because I didn’t feel comfortable with it in my house and I still don’t feel completely comfortable. My husband is stationed on land so I haven’t had the need to learn how to use it but its definitely on my to do list! I would love to read a post explaining safety measure/talks regarding children . We have a 2 year old and I have no idea how to approach the subject.
September 27th, 2012 @ 4:38 am
I have no problems with guns or people who use them. I do not have one and see no need to have one in my house. I feel that by the time you were able to retrieve your gun from where it should be safely locked and arm it with the ammo that should be safely locked in a separate location that any intruder would have already found you and done what they please. I’m not saying that people shouldn’t be able to protect themselves with guns and if you have one and use it to protect yourself that’s fine. I just don’t see how practically it’s more effective than other types of self defense. I also don’t see how anyone needs to be able to carry a concealed weapon anywhere with the exception of law enforcement.
Sally Reply:
September 27th, 2012 at 10:03 am
I repect that you feel differently. In our home, if someone were to break in, I still would have at least a good 30 seconds before they made it back to our room or the babies’ room. I feel pretty confident I could be well-armed by then
As for concealed carry, there are countless stories of women being forced into cars, of them being car-jacked at train crossings, of being abducted during a run. A gun may not be able to always protect me, but it will cetainly give me a fighting chance. It’s very rare a member of law enforcement would be close enough to help you in any of these events.
September 27th, 2012 @ 5:28 pm
My sister is a newly-wed and her husband is very into guns. They recently bought her a very small handgun for protection. She was showing it to us and my 3 1/2 year-old said “I want a gun!!” and wanted very badly to hold it. That scared the crap out of me! I’m certainly not against owning guns, but I’m also afraid of them. So probably classes are exactly what I would need. My husband wants to buy a gun very badly (he likes to target shoot as a hobby too) but we can’t afford it right now anyway. If the time comes that we one day buy a gun, I certainly would benefit from some classes. I’d be a much safer gun owner with some lessons, and my cousin’s husband actually teaches concealed carry courses. Just 2 weeks ago in our town their was a 2 year-old boy (son of a police officer) that died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. So tragic. Breaks my heart. My brother is a police officer in Los Angeles and my other brother is in the Army. Luckily, I think everyone in our family has a healthy amount of fear of guns. However, unfortunately, I think all the women in our family would also be totally unreliable when handling one.
October 4th, 2012 @ 5:53 pm
I have one….and it’s loaded…..and it’s in my nightstand. call me crazy, but I’ll get them before they get me…100% sure! The only safety measure I take is that I don’t have a bullet in the chamber.
p.s. I don’t have kids, and my husband and are extremely comfortable with weapons! I’m a lady who doesn’t play around!
Sally Reply:
October 4th, 2012 at 9:38 pm
Good for you! If it weren’t for our babies, we would do the same.
October 6th, 2012 @ 12:52 am
So, like you, I have a mini-arsenal in my home and my daddy is an ex-cop and has trained me well
I am of the opinion that your hubby, like it or not, is just as likely to need your help in the case of a home invasion as you are… or what if he isn’t around? I’m in a military relationship as well and in addition to my bf being very happy that I know how to use a gun, he also wants me to know hand-to-hand combat and knife combat. I think that every woman should know how to defend herself. And besides, if you’re girl, how many criminals will be expecting you to draw down on them?
Get a handgun. Learn how to use it. Get an automated gun safe. Keep it next to your bed. The dogs can be your alarm system (or your alarm can be your alarm system) but I’d rather wait the 5-10 minutes for the police to respond with the bad guy cornered by my 9mm than be holed up in my room with my door barricaded.
October 6th, 2012 @ 8:45 am
I was raised learning gun safety as soon as I was old enough to understand. I have guns in the house, and I have a child. Get a gun safe, and for your personal protection gun, a gun vault. The vault bolts down, mine is bolted to my nightstand, and will only open with the right code (there are also some that are biometric.) This allows me access in time of need yet keeps my child safe. Police are 40 minutes away on a good day, so this is a necessity.
Good for you for learning, I encourage everyone to learn basics of handling and safety, and teach your children (google “eddie eagle” if you’re not sure how) even if you don’t have guns. Your kids could come across a gun anywhere, teach them what to do if it happens. Education is important.
October 6th, 2012 @ 10:35 am
I think this article is wonderful, especially for women that may have a fear of a gun. I try to encorage all of my female friends to learn about guns and learn to empower themselves in this world we have today. I feel that women must learn to depend on themselves in all situations. You need to know because just because you have a man around does not mean that he will always be there and be able to defend you. We do more going, working etc. than women before. Fifty years ago drugs and crime were not big issues like that are now. Thanks for the aritcle and I will be sharing it.