I was just assaulted this past Friday night as I left a night club.I'm not sure if they assaulted me b/c I'm gay or if they were just trying to rob me.Either way,I'll give you the same advice the police gave me.She said I should not allow this to keep me from being me.
Living in the UK, if someone broke in to my house I would take my chances confronting the burglar. This is because the people of the UK tend not to own firearms and where they do they are heavily regulated. That said if I lived in the USA I would have probably done what you did and bailed. It was probably the noise of you doing that that scared him off.
It has occurred to me to wonder, did you have anything in the way of a blunt object you could defend yourself with? Something along the lines of a basebal bat, maybe?
The problem is ontological: by getting a weapon now you could never have to need it again. In effect, you're finding a solution to something that has been and gone. However, if you want one you should be able to have one per see. The problem is that psychological tests are not mandated in America that would pick up psychotic, sociopathic and criminal tendencies, as well as inclinations towards extremism.
My advice for anybody thinking about getting a gun for self defense is to really sit down and ask yourself if, in a split second, you will be able to determine that your life is in danger and shoot to kill another human being. A lot of people, I think, in the back of their mind, have the idea that an attacker will stop at the sight of a gun and are not mentally prepared to shoot as many times as needed to stop the threat. Your gun can easily become their gun if you are not prepared to shoot.
Ujames1978.. video response conveys very limited thinking. While I feel bad for his past painful experiences he should not own a gun. He uses words like murder and vengeance and categorizes crimes into "overwhelming majority" buckets. Not good. While I have been taught to retreat, even in my own home, rather than use a gun I'd rather have a gun in my hand while I wait for the Police to arrive. If you draw a gun and the attacker continues to advance, your life is at imminent risk.
Own a weapon only if you intend to actually shoot someone if you need to when you draw. Otherwise, the bad guy will take your gun from you and may use it against you. Also, realize when you use a weapon, depending on your State laws, you will enter the legal system and may be subject to criminal and civil liabilities. In short, it will cost lots of money and time to go through this system. So, you will only ever want to draw and/or use a gun if you are at risk of losing your life.
Get a gun. It's the great equalizer. You're very lucky. I think women really need to learn how to shoot. You can't rely on anyone to protect you in this shitty world.
@FriendOregon A lot of alarms are silent alarms. The police are not legally obligated to come to your rescue. If another call comes in that is more urgent than the perceived threat to you is they won't come. Yes, I own a fire arm. I've taken many classes and certified to have them. I haven't ever shot outside the range, but I know if I ever need to I am willing and able to protect myself.
@FriendOregon I lived in London and was terrified. The chav culture in Britain is outrageous. It's like nobody gives a fuck, especially the police. They're too busy putting up cctv and spying on citizens. Can't you own a rifle if you're a hunter or something?
@d0llsnatch Thats true, rifles are legal for hunting. I'm not a hunter though. Knew some hunters as I grew up in the countryside but never really wanted to shoot small animals myself, plus rifles bore me. I like the idea of hand guns because I see it so much in the movies and would love to feel it for myself. Unfortunately all handguns are illegal.
London... It is prolly the most dangerous place in the UK in terms of serious crime. Where I live it relatively mild crime and yobbishness.
For Xmas I handed out three stun guns and two pepper spray guns to friends that requested them.I carry a stun gun myself because a schools I frequent (like Georgia Tech) have assaults regularly.I would carry a tazer,but those are considered fire arms in GA and you can't have them on schools.Many of my female friends have fire arms and are licensed to carry concealed weapons for fear of the scenario you described.I have on coworker that had no gun for that scenario and remains emotionally scared.
@TheAnhedonicAngel They got in because i let them in then they charged! i was like FUCK lol they ended up finding it but i refused to tell them where it was lol
also Consider martial arts basic self defense training, its not just a good way to defend your self, it is also a good discipline to control your emotions and reaction in a confrontation. helps with confidence under pressure. - nothing advanced - just a few basics.
I recommend pepper spray, take gun training before even concerning owning a weapon.
a tazer/stun gun is also a good alternative to owning a gun before you are ready.
when you are ready for gun ownership, don't settle on just anything - be willing to spend the money - best stopping power for what you can physically handle, no sense in having a hand canon if you can't control it. and should the need arise where you do need to use the gun, - Hit To Kill, for a good number of reasons. .... cont.
... - also - other than maintenance and practice, never take out the weapon or point it at anything - unless your intention is to kill or destroy the target - be deliberate in every action taken with that weapon. even for an atheist - that is the power of a god in your hands.
A lot of people would consider me an ultra lefty for someone who lives in America, I'm personally opposed to gun control though. Without guns lots of things would all come down to who exercises the most, who trains for combat the most, and whoever inherited high levels of physical strength, that's not my idea of a good world. In your case it sounds like getting a gun might be a good idea, along with additional security measures. Sounds like a scary situation. Especially not knowing the
2. Getting a weapon sounds like a great, but I also agree with a previous commenter in that you shouldn't live in fear. Prepare for the worst, but don't expect it every second of the day.
My first step in moving in was to reinforce the entry door against kick ins, you can buy Door Jamb EZ Armor at Lowe's for around $60 and install it fairly easily or have your landlord's handy man install it for you.
I don't own a gun yet, but I plan to buy one. I was thinking of going with a 20 gauge shotgun because they're easier to fire and with buck shot should be as effective as a 12 gauge in stopping an attacker. I wouldn't depend on a spray to stop someone, it will only slow them down.
A small shotgun, a 410 gauge, is a good home defense weapon but you should learn how to use it, don't get a pistol, you are more likely to be shot with your own pistol than shoot the intruder. Pistols are hard to aim in a panic situation, a pump shot gun is good because the action of chambering around makes a sound that chills most sane men's blood, I use a 12 gauge mossberg with magnum shells but it hurts me to shoot it. bruises my shoulder but it will do the job with one shot
I firmly believe the right to bare arms and form a people's militia is an essential right. Force is often how the status quo is set or overturned. You can give that power only to the state, the enforcers of the status quo, or to everyone, the general public that is affected. The latter choice is clearly better. That being said, firearms are horrible for self defense! You are more far likely to be murdered by a weapon already in your house than anything an invader brings in
that being said, i m happy that you got out of the situation unharmed and if you think it ll make you feel safer, get some gun and / or self-defence training. ;)
i m glad it turned out well for you. I m from a country where nearly nobody owns guns and violent crime is very rare, so i perceive a different normality here. Still, when trying to think about living in the u.s. i wouldnt want to own a gun, because of the likelyhood of either hurting oneself or loved ones by accident or aggravating a dangerous situation into a gunfight. Also, picture yourself in the situation of having shot somebody to death who wasnt armed and needed money to feed himself...
@Lutzifer31337 What country are you from? I would never advocate shooting someone over property, i can buy new stuff, food i give away freely but if i am threatened the other person is gonna see the business end of my 12 gauge, gun fights happen in the movies not in real life. In real life who ever shoots first usually wins, only one shot so you have to make it a good one. a 12 gauge magnum with 000 buck shot will stop a bear or a human with one shot.
@Moontanman You never shoot with out telling the other person to surrender or you will shoot them, you never shoot through walls or doors and you never shoot anyone unless you feel threatened or they are armed. It's not the wild west, there are rules that must be followed or you will go to jail as a murderer....
I personally don't own a weapon, nor do I want to, but I can see reasons why someone would want to own one. There's nothing intrinsically wrong with owning a weapon. Much like owning a car it can be used responsibly or irresponsibly.
That said, a weapon is only as useful as your willingness to use it. If you aren't willing to kill someone, in self-defense or otherwise, never buy a lethal weapon. Merely having it will raise the stakes in any situation.
Here you're unlikely to even see a gun outside of the military, rifle ranges and hunting clubs which also means that they're not really necessary here. I'd imagine in America where there are a lot more guns, these views probably don't translate well.
I am a gun owner. I have 2 WWII-era rifles that I used to take out for target practice. I had to leave them with a friend in Georgia when I moved to New York. Most of my friends back in Georgia were gun owners, either as hunters, for self defense, or simply as gun enthusiasts. I had to explain to my friends that while I like guns and have great respect for them as tools and as art, I will never own a handgun. Since I have depression, it is not worth the risk.
So that is my response: is it worth the risk? You seem intelligent and responsible. If there are not any children around or other concerns, then I see no problems with you keeping a firearm for your own defense. Make sure you get out to the range every couple weeks, though, until you are comfortable loading, holding the weapon, and firing it.
Glad to hear nothing came of your incident. Stay safe.
@Friendough Maybe, but not by a wide margin, I really don't want to get into a discussion about how easy it is to kill yourself with a rifle, I think you might want to reconsider the risk of any firearm. Now, before anybody accuses me of being anti-gun, know that I have a carry permit and carry a handgun everyday.
My Personal opinion I live in out in the bush where a good majority of people own guns and I have little experience with city life. I never understood the fascination from people from urban areas with firearms on both the pro and against side.
If I think you should get a gun. If you feel there maybe a repeat then yes get some means of protection. That's reasonable. Just don't live in fear. That's unreasonable.
Having owned a gun before I second the person that said that call a gun range and see if they have some guns that your could shoot as a trial and see if a gun feels right. If it does then talk to the people at the gun shop and see what they would recommend what would be best for you and your needs. If you get 1 them I do suggest even more practice time with it so you can shoot it correctly. They can also teach you how to claen and maintain it so you don't have any problems with it.
Holy crap glad your alright. He should be glad I wasn't there. Get yo self a gat girl and if he comes back blow his balls off! Ask no questions. I think if more people had gun less people need them. But again glad you're ok ; )
I see no problem with reasonable, law abiding people owning a gun. It's easy to imagine a situation where you couldn't have escaped the burglar, e.g. because of a prior injury. I'm sure you don't want to take your chances in a fist-fight with a significantly taller and heavier man. And to appease the guy by being unarmed and defenseless might not be a good idea either. What if he wants to get rid of you as a witness? What if he'd use the opportunity to rape you?
First of all, I just want to say how relieved I am that you were unharmed and that everything was okay. However, having planned to leave the whole issue of firearms, gun-control and the 2nd Amendment in the past, I am now going to have to re-open that whole can of worms. Because in the end, you were fine, nothing happened and owning a gun might have CAUSED more harm; staying, not running. And having debated with pro gun people, they have nothing but hyperoble, propaganda and fear.
@Ujames1978Forever Yes, fortunately I was unharmed. I think that if I had a weapon I still would have fled. I only would used it if cornered during my escape.
@Ujames1978Forever Yes, fortunately I was unharmed. I think that if I had a weapon I still would have fled. I only would used it if cornered during my escape.
I've never owned a gun and never felt the need to. If the attacker has a gun then I'm probably screwed anyway and I don't want to risk forcing them to use theirs by having one of my own. If they don't have a gun then there's no need for me to have one. Either way, guns aren't for me.
Although I'm Canadian so it's not really a thang. :D
WOW!...all the years of my life I have never suffered such an attack. My first reaction is YEEEESSSSS get a weapon and shoot the S.O.B. When your very life is being threatened it is no time to ponder the failed life of the perpetuator.
I keep a loaded gun in a safe next to my bed. So far I've only had to take it out for cleaning and to go to the gun range. I'm sure that will continue to be the case, but if its not then its there if I need it.
This is probably the one issue I tend to agree with more people on the right than on the left. I think everyone should have one, well except paranoid schizophrenics and the such. And I also support a person's right to protect themselves, their loved ones, and personal property with appropriate force. i.e. Deadly force if the perpetrator has a weapon, but not if he/she is unarmed. I would see that as highly undesirable, but I can't condemn someone for self-protection at any cost. Peace.
Personally, I understand the need people sometimes feel for having a gun. Sure, accidents happen and people get hurt sometimes, but the same thing happens with cars and electricity.
I often find myself thinking it would be a good idea to give middle school kids a little instruction in how to handle a gun safely. Once one has learned this, one has also, in the process, learned how to identify when someone ELSE is doing so.
I did answer that in my comment. I think they should stay outlawed. I don't wan't one. I don't wan't the psycho next door to have one. In fact I want as few of them in circulation as possible.
This works - look up the murder statistics for Denmark (where I live) and compare them to yours.
@ndrthrdr1 In Denmark, you must have had your head buried in the sand. According to Interpol, Denmark is almost as violent as the US in terms of violent crime - burglary, robbery, rape, motor vehicle theft, etc. They may not use as many guns to commit violent crimes, but the crimes are committed.
@itsjustameme Look at all violent crime in Denmark - Interpol is a good source. While there may be fewer gun murders there is ample violent crime. And, HIV in an assault crime can be just as deadly.
Between 1995 and 2000, according to INTERPOL data, the rate of murder increased from 1.13 to 4.03, an increase of 256.6%. The rate for rape increased from 8.44 to 9.32, an increase of 10.4%. The rate of robbery increased from 39.09 to 59.14, an increase of 51.3%. Source: Interpol
@itsjustameme What also concerns me about Denmark is the old data available to Citizens. I could only find data on violent crime that was OVER ten years old. What is going on over there? Is the government hiding information? The increasing trends in violent crime 10-15 years ago were alarming.
Oh please - interpol stopped collecting those data altogether. Check your facts.
However I do have some fresh data from dansk statistik - those are probably the best data available.
The statistics for 2010 that I could find was for murder and attempted murder combined. (I can only find for 3/4 of 2011 but they are there as well) 2011 denmark had 194 cases out of a population of 5,5 million danes. That is 3,5 out of 100.000 for those two crimes combined.
@itsjustameme No, you didn't. You said you are against guns. I asked if you are against gun RIGHTS. Not the same issue.
But you have answered that question now. So tell me, why do you see the neighbor who owns a gun or two as automatically "psycho?" You understand the difference between making something illegal and getting rid of it, right?
Well sorry if I'm not familiar with the jargon. I did think that it was the same but I gather that they are not.
To someone like me who lives in a country where guns are generally outlawed the two are the same - I didn't even think to make the distinction. Like the eskimos are said to have 50 words for snow then I imagine that americans must have 50 different words for stance on gun control. I consider myself fortunate to not live in such a country.
@itsjustameme Jargon? "Guns" and "rights?" I asked you two question in the comment you are replying to here. How about taking a stab at answering one of them. I asked you why you see the neighbor who owns a gun or two as automatically "psycho." This question seeks a reason. Please furnish me with a reason. I also asked if you understand the difference between making something illegal and getting rid of it.
@lazyperfectionist1 For example, alcohol was once illegal in the US. This did not get rid of it. It only drove it underground, creating a black market for the mob to exploit.
Abortion was once illegal in the US. This too did not get rid of it. It only drove it into back alleys and other unsanitary environments where the instrument of choice was an uncoiled wire hanger.
There are only a few countries in the world in which prostitution is legal but none in which it does not happen.
@lazyperfectionist1 Making laws against alcohol does not get rid of it. Making laws abortion does not get rid of it. Making laws against prostitution does not get rid of it. There is the act of making a thing illegal and the act of getting rid of it and these are two different acts. Surely this is not hard to see.
Like I said - where I come from there is not much distinction between the two questions and I actually thought I had answered them both.
But since you insist to pursue the matter I'll try again.
I am opposed to people having guns - even for self defence. I think that as few people as possible should be allowed to own one. I do recognize that police officers and military would have a hard time doing their jobs without, but their guns and ammo should be under massive control.
@itsjustameme Are the comments I'm typing too long or something? Are you not willing to take the time to read the whole thing? The question of whether you object to gun rights or just to guns you DID answer and I moved on to two others.
You said, "I don't wan't the psycho next door to have one," so I asked how you get from someone owning a gun or two to being a psycho. This question you keep avoiding. How do you get from someone owning guns to someone being psycho?
@lazyperfectionist1 How do you get from someone owning guns to being psycho? I would like to follow your reasoning, so I'm asking what your reasoning is.
And I would argue that in a society where guns are outlawed, there is no need for Joe ordinary to own a gun.
And I will look with suspicion on anyone who does. There are a few exception - people who are hunting or in a shooting club or something I can just about accept (grudgingly) - and these permits are very hard to get. But anyone else in Denmark who keeps a gun in their house is probably a psycho. And is keeping the gun there illegally.
Now it is you who is not reading my posts. I would prefer guns to be outlawed all together!
You then asked me if I saw anyone who had a gun as a psycho. And my answer is no - not exactly everyone. I know that there are (a few) groups of people who have a gun and are not psychos.
I think it is strange that society lets these civilians get to keep guns and I cringe every time I hear that someone with a hunting rifle has shot his wife or something. But they are not all psychos
@acromagnonman Yeah, I also heard wasp spray works pretty well. It shoots farther than pepper spray so you don't have to get too close to the attacker.
Weapons, now I have mixed feelings about that... I have bats in my closet just in case, but bat will only break bones or cause brian damage; but a gun will take a life, and sometimes you don't know who your shooting if you know what I mean. Hope this help, good luck. :-)
I was in a similar situation back in the mid 80s. I never wanted a gun then and I don't want one now. But I think if others want them, that's fine. I've held and fired guns. It makes me uncomfortable. I doubt that I'd ever use one even if I had it, & having it would just be an opportunity to make a bad situation worse. For me personally, I get the same uneasy feeling holding a gun that I get standing at a ledge. I know I have no intention of stepping off & probably wouldn't slip ... but I could.
Realistically, I think there are few situations where a gun is useful. However, it sounds like you almost found yourself in one of those few situations! Do you live in a high-crime area? If so, then a gun might be a good idea. Also, maybe other measures: A stronger door? Home security system?
I see nothing morally wrong with having a gun for protection. I do think as a society we'd be safer if no one had guns, rather than everyone armed, but that's not the country we live in.
@iamsmartacus No, we live in a pretty quiet neighborhood, that's what's so shocking. I've lived in way worse neighborhoods than the one I'm in currently and this is the first time someone's tried to rob me. WE are taking measures to properly secure the house.
As for the weapon, I say go for it. I wouldn't get a gun because I'm just a kid who would want to play with it. For protection its all about peace of mind. If owning a gun brings peace of mind then get one. There also other forms of protection though like self defense classes or my personal favorite swords.
Er...you saved the dog first?
xy11xy 1 week ago
I was just assaulted this past Friday night as I left a night club.I'm not sure if they assaulted me b/c I'm gay or if they were just trying to rob me.Either way,I'll give you the same advice the police gave me.She said I should not allow this to keep me from being me.
RiffRaffHandyman 3 weeks ago
Glad to see your ok. I would be devastated if something bad was to happen to you :(. If I was there, I would have protected you for sure. Take care.
Sephiroth082189 1 month ago
Living in the UK, if someone broke in to my house I would take my chances confronting the burglar. This is because the people of the UK tend not to own firearms and where they do they are heavily regulated. That said if I lived in the USA I would have probably done what you did and bailed. It was probably the noise of you doing that that scared him off.
toppledgod 1 month ago
It has occurred to me to wonder, did you have anything in the way of a blunt object you could defend yourself with? Something along the lines of a basebal bat, maybe?
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 No, but even if I did, I don't think I would of thought of using it in that moment :(
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel Oh dear. What if you owned a gun and it didn't occur to you to use it either?
And when am I going to learn how to spell "baseball?"
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 Lol. I think, I won't be taken by surprise the next around
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
The problem is ontological: by getting a weapon now you could never have to need it again. In effect, you're finding a solution to something that has been and gone. However, if you want one you should be able to have one per see. The problem is that psychological tests are not mandated in America that would pick up psychotic, sociopathic and criminal tendencies, as well as inclinations towards extremism.
niriop 1 month ago
My advice for anybody thinking about getting a gun for self defense is to really sit down and ask yourself if, in a split second, you will be able to determine that your life is in danger and shoot to kill another human being. A lot of people, I think, in the back of their mind, have the idea that an attacker will stop at the sight of a gun and are not mentally prepared to shoot as many times as needed to stop the threat. Your gun can easily become their gun if you are not prepared to shoot.
SpaceFrawg 1 month ago
Ujames1978.. video response conveys very limited thinking. While I feel bad for his past painful experiences he should not own a gun. He uses words like murder and vengeance and categorizes crimes into "overwhelming majority" buckets. Not good. While I have been taught to retreat, even in my own home, rather than use a gun I'd rather have a gun in my hand while I wait for the Police to arrive. If you draw a gun and the attacker continues to advance, your life is at imminent risk.
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
Own a weapon only if you intend to actually shoot someone if you need to when you draw. Otherwise, the bad guy will take your gun from you and may use it against you. Also, realize when you use a weapon, depending on your State laws, you will enter the legal system and may be subject to criminal and civil liabilities. In short, it will cost lots of money and time to go through this system. So, you will only ever want to draw and/or use a gun if you are at risk of losing your life.
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
Come on girl... you have a dog for protection!
moogleshieh 1 month ago
@moogleshieh Lol my dog is old as hell ! He didn't even bark when the guy broke in :(
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
Glad to hear you're ok. As for your question, I'm not a gun person so I'd most likely just have a bat or some other type of melee weapon.
ManicRaider 1 month ago
Get a gun. It's the great equalizer. You're very lucky. I think women really need to learn how to shoot. You can't rely on anyone to protect you in this shitty world.
d0llsnatch 1 month ago
Do you have a house alarm?
FriendOregon 1 month ago
@FriendOregon What the hell is that going to do?
d0llsnatch 1 month ago
@d0llsnatch Cause alot of noise so it scares them away and alerts the neighbours. BTW do you own a gun? just wondering.
FriendOregon 1 month ago
@FriendOregon A lot of alarms are silent alarms. The police are not legally obligated to come to your rescue. If another call comes in that is more urgent than the perceived threat to you is they won't come. Yes, I own a fire arm. I've taken many classes and certified to have them. I haven't ever shot outside the range, but I know if I ever need to I am willing and able to protect myself.
d0llsnatch 1 month ago
@d0llsnatch I wish I had a hand gun. Unfortunately they are totally illegal here. I have never fired a handgun.
Really in terms of crime and home invasion in the US. I think its far to different a dynamic for me to be able to comment.
FriendOregon 1 month ago
@FriendOregon I lived in London and was terrified. The chav culture in Britain is outrageous. It's like nobody gives a fuck, especially the police. They're too busy putting up cctv and spying on citizens. Can't you own a rifle if you're a hunter or something?
d0llsnatch 1 month ago
@d0llsnatch Thats true, rifles are legal for hunting. I'm not a hunter though. Knew some hunters as I grew up in the countryside but never really wanted to shoot small animals myself, plus rifles bore me. I like the idea of hand guns because I see it so much in the movies and would love to feel it for myself. Unfortunately all handguns are illegal.
London... It is prolly the most dangerous place in the UK in terms of serious crime. Where I live it relatively mild crime and yobbishness.
FriendOregon 1 month ago
For Xmas I handed out three stun guns and two pepper spray guns to friends that requested them.I carry a stun gun myself because a schools I frequent (like Georgia Tech) have assaults regularly.I would carry a tazer,but those are considered fire arms in GA and you can't have them on schools.Many of my female friends have fire arms and are licensed to carry concealed weapons for fear of the scenario you described.I have on coworker that had no gun for that scenario and remains emotionally scared.
alcedes78 1 month ago
2 stories isn't even high! lol
lever20065 1 month ago
@lever20065 ....to jump out of, without shattering your bones? lol
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel actually your right at 8 feet per story thats 16 feet that would be a good jump! lol
lever20065 1 month ago
@lever20065 especially if you're a shorty like me :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel I have been home invaded before but i was selling weed so they wanted that LOL
lever20065 1 month ago
@lever20065 Haha, well at least you knew what they were after :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel They got in because i let them in then they charged! i was like FUCK lol they ended up finding it but i refused to tell them where it was lol
lever20065 1 month ago
@lever20065 you're a gangsta ;)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel That was a long time ago! feel free to watch my videos and comment :)
lever20065 1 month ago
also Consider martial arts basic self defense training, its not just a good way to defend your self, it is also a good discipline to control your emotions and reaction in a confrontation. helps with confidence under pressure. - nothing advanced - just a few basics.
Afterfauve007 1 month ago
I recommend pepper spray, take gun training before even concerning owning a weapon.
a tazer/stun gun is also a good alternative to owning a gun before you are ready.
when you are ready for gun ownership, don't settle on just anything - be willing to spend the money - best stopping power for what you can physically handle, no sense in having a hand canon if you can't control it. and should the need arise where you do need to use the gun, - Hit To Kill, for a good number of reasons. .... cont.
Afterfauve007 1 month ago
... - also - other than maintenance and practice, never take out the weapon or point it at anything - unless your intention is to kill or destroy the target - be deliberate in every action taken with that weapon. even for an atheist - that is the power of a god in your hands.
Afterfauve007 1 month ago
motivation yet.
LetraRunt 1 month ago
A lot of people would consider me an ultra lefty for someone who lives in America, I'm personally opposed to gun control though. Without guns lots of things would all come down to who exercises the most, who trains for combat the most, and whoever inherited high levels of physical strength, that's not my idea of a good world. In your case it sounds like getting a gun might be a good idea, along with additional security measures. Sounds like a scary situation. Especially not knowing the
LetraRunt 1 month ago
A slide action shotgun. The sound of a round being chambered is unmistakable to just about anyone.
morg52 1 month ago
Yikes, glad to see you're okay.
TruthofthePeople 1 month ago
Glad your safe. That sounds crazy! Be well!
wayman29 1 month ago
Glad you're ok. I think self defense should be a priority. You're opponent could disarm you or prevent you from ever getting close to your weapon.
Reisce 1 month ago
@Reisce True
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
1. Glad you weren't hurt and nothing was stolen.
2. Getting a weapon sounds like a great, but I also agree with a previous commenter in that you shouldn't live in fear. Prepare for the worst, but don't expect it every second of the day.
TheSeraphSlayer 1 month ago
My first step in moving in was to reinforce the entry door against kick ins, you can buy Door Jamb EZ Armor at Lowe's for around $60 and install it fairly easily or have your landlord's handy man install it for you.
I don't own a gun yet, but I plan to buy one. I was thinking of going with a 20 gauge shotgun because they're easier to fire and with buck shot should be as effective as a 12 gauge in stopping an attacker. I wouldn't depend on a spray to stop someone, it will only slow them down.
kitsunegames 1 month ago
I choose to own a sword. It isn't long but it is sharp.
GingerAtheist 1 month ago
A small shotgun, a 410 gauge, is a good home defense weapon but you should learn how to use it, don't get a pistol, you are more likely to be shot with your own pistol than shoot the intruder. Pistols are hard to aim in a panic situation, a pump shot gun is good because the action of chambering around makes a sound that chills most sane men's blood, I use a 12 gauge mossberg with magnum shells but it hurts me to shoot it. bruises my shoulder but it will do the job with one shot
Moontanman 1 month ago
Extremely scary
I'm so glad you are OK.
SiriusMined 1 month ago
@SiriusMined Thanks! me too :) lol
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
I firmly believe the right to bare arms and form a people's militia is an essential right. Force is often how the status quo is set or overturned. You can give that power only to the state, the enforcers of the status quo, or to everyone, the general public that is affected. The latter choice is clearly better. That being said, firearms are horrible for self defense! You are more far likely to be murdered by a weapon already in your house than anything an invader brings in
Coquipirate 1 month ago
@Coquipirate you're better off buying a security system or organizing an armed neighborhood watch
Coquipirate 1 month ago
@Coquipirate That is an option I'm willing to consider.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
that being said, i m happy that you got out of the situation unharmed and if you think it ll make you feel safer, get some gun and / or self-defence training. ;)
Lutzifer31337 1 month ago
i m glad it turned out well for you. I m from a country where nearly nobody owns guns and violent crime is very rare, so i perceive a different normality here. Still, when trying to think about living in the u.s. i wouldnt want to own a gun, because of the likelyhood of either hurting oneself or loved ones by accident or aggravating a dangerous situation into a gunfight. Also, picture yourself in the situation of having shot somebody to death who wasnt armed and needed money to feed himself...
Lutzifer31337 1 month ago
@Lutzifer31337 What country are you from? I would never advocate shooting someone over property, i can buy new stuff, food i give away freely but if i am threatened the other person is gonna see the business end of my 12 gauge, gun fights happen in the movies not in real life. In real life who ever shoots first usually wins, only one shot so you have to make it a good one. a 12 gauge magnum with 000 buck shot will stop a bear or a human with one shot.
Moontanman 1 month ago
@Moontanman You never shoot with out telling the other person to surrender or you will shoot them, you never shoot through walls or doors and you never shoot anyone unless you feel threatened or they are armed. It's not the wild west, there are rules that must be followed or you will go to jail as a murderer....
Moontanman 1 month ago 2
I personally don't own a weapon, nor do I want to, but I can see reasons why someone would want to own one. There's nothing intrinsically wrong with owning a weapon. Much like owning a car it can be used responsibly or irresponsibly.
That said, a weapon is only as useful as your willingness to use it. If you aren't willing to kill someone, in self-defense or otherwise, never buy a lethal weapon. Merely having it will raise the stakes in any situation.
jeremycoatney 1 month ago
Here you're unlikely to even see a gun outside of the military, rifle ranges and hunting clubs which also means that they're not really necessary here. I'd imagine in America where there are a lot more guns, these views probably don't translate well.
Orygyn 1 month ago
I am a gun owner. I have 2 WWII-era rifles that I used to take out for target practice. I had to leave them with a friend in Georgia when I moved to New York. Most of my friends back in Georgia were gun owners, either as hunters, for self defense, or simply as gun enthusiasts. I had to explain to my friends that while I like guns and have great respect for them as tools and as art, I will never own a handgun. Since I have depression, it is not worth the risk.
Friendough 1 month ago
@Friendough
So that is my response: is it worth the risk? You seem intelligent and responsible. If there are not any children around or other concerns, then I see no problems with you keeping a firearm for your own defense. Make sure you get out to the range every couple weeks, though, until you are comfortable loading, holding the weapon, and firing it.
Glad to hear nothing came of your incident. Stay safe.
Friendough 1 month ago
@Friendough Thanks ;) I definitely want to make sure I'm comfortable with the weapon.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@Friendough How is a rifle less risky than a handgun, for you personally?
SpaceFrawg 1 month ago
@SpaceFrawg
A rifle is hard to hold up against your head/ put in your mouth. A handgun represents a much more tempting way out.
Friendough 1 month ago
@Friendough Maybe, but not by a wide margin, I really don't want to get into a discussion about how easy it is to kill yourself with a rifle, I think you might want to reconsider the risk of any firearm. Now, before anybody accuses me of being anti-gun, know that I have a carry permit and carry a handgun everyday.
SpaceFrawg 1 month ago
...or a bigger dog. j/k
But wow. Glad your ok.
My Personal opinion I live in out in the bush where a good majority of people own guns and I have little experience with city life. I never understood the fascination from people from urban areas with firearms on both the pro and against side.
If I think you should get a gun. If you feel there maybe a repeat then yes get some means of protection. That's reasonable. Just don't live in fear. That's unreasonable.
thornisdan 1 month ago
@thornisdan I think that's sound advice.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
I keep baseball bat & a hunting knife in my room.....break into my house your life is forfiet
ThePariahLivesOn 1 month ago
@ThePariahLivesOn I know you keep it gangsta ;)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
Having owned a gun before I second the person that said that call a gun range and see if they have some guns that your could shoot as a trial and see if a gun feels right. If it does then talk to the people at the gun shop and see what they would recommend what would be best for you and your needs. If you get 1 them I do suggest even more practice time with it so you can shoot it correctly. They can also teach you how to claen and maintain it so you don't have any problems with it.
lautz73 1 month ago
Holy crap glad your alright. He should be glad I wasn't there. Get yo self a gat girl and if he comes back blow his balls off! Ask no questions. I think if more people had gun less people need them. But again glad you're ok ; )
OpenAirAtheist 1 month ago
@OpenAirAtheist Fah show! thanks ;)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
There's nothing wrong with empowering yourself. If owning and learning how to use a firearm will make you feel safer than I say go fo it.
julzabro 1 month ago
OMG! I'm glad you are okay!
I see no problem with reasonable, law abiding people owning a gun. It's easy to imagine a situation where you couldn't have escaped the burglar, e.g. because of a prior injury. I'm sure you don't want to take your chances in a fist-fight with a significantly taller and heavier man. And to appease the guy by being unarmed and defenseless might not be a good idea either. What if he wants to get rid of you as a witness? What if he'd use the opportunity to rape you?
NoNiceNameFound 1 month ago
Dear Simone,
First of all, I just want to say how relieved I am that you were unharmed and that everything was okay. However, having planned to leave the whole issue of firearms, gun-control and the 2nd Amendment in the past, I am now going to have to re-open that whole can of worms. Because in the end, you were fine, nothing happened and owning a gun might have CAUSED more harm; staying, not running. And having debated with pro gun people, they have nothing but hyperoble, propaganda and fear.
Ujames1978Forever 1 month ago
@Ujames1978Forever Yes, fortunately I was unharmed. I think that if I had a weapon I still would have fled. I only would used it if cornered during my escape.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@Ujames1978Forever Yes, fortunately I was unharmed. I think that if I had a weapon I still would have fled. I only would used it if cornered during my escape.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
If its legally possible to shoot someone in self defense in your state, buy a gun. Your welcome.
Uhmu45 1 month ago
I've never owned a gun and never felt the need to. If the attacker has a gun then I'm probably screwed anyway and I don't want to risk forcing them to use theirs by having one of my own. If they don't have a gun then there's no need for me to have one. Either way, guns aren't for me.
Although I'm Canadian so it's not really a thang. :D
TheLaughingOut 1 month ago
@TheLaughingOut Yeah, I feel funny about having to get one. I'm just can't imagine myself carrying heat Lol
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel So you've decided to get one for sure then?
TheLaughingOut 1 month ago
@TheLaughingOut Idk, it's idea I've been tossing around. It's entirely possible that I might feel differently after we finish securing the house.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
WOW!...all the years of my life I have never suffered such an attack. My first reaction is YEEEESSSSS get a weapon and shoot the S.O.B. When your very life is being threatened it is no time to ponder the failed life of the perpetuator.
KasparHauser6 1 month ago
I think guns are like cars. They're useful but dangerous. People should be allowed to have them, but they should have to pass tests first.
thethegreenmachine 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel Sorry,To heard that :)
dkhaf 1 month ago
I keep a loaded gun in a safe next to my bed. So far I've only had to take it out for cleaning and to go to the gun range. I'm sure that will continue to be the case, but if its not then its there if I need it.
AtheistKharm 1 month ago
I also think it takes a lot of class to admit that the position one has been holding up to now may have been mistaken.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 It's been a very eye opening experience.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
This is probably the one issue I tend to agree with more people on the right than on the left. I think everyone should have one, well except paranoid schizophrenics and the such. And I also support a person's right to protect themselves, their loved ones, and personal property with appropriate force. i.e. Deadly force if the perpetrator has a weapon, but not if he/she is unarmed. I would see that as highly undesirable, but I can't condemn someone for self-protection at any cost. Peace.
mojosideburns 1 month ago
Personally, I understand the need people sometimes feel for having a gun. Sure, accidents happen and people get hurt sometimes, but the same thing happens with cars and electricity.
I often find myself thinking it would be a good idea to give middle school kids a little instruction in how to handle a gun safely. Once one has learned this, one has also, in the process, learned how to identify when someone ELSE is doing so.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 Such also takes the mystery out of guns, which is, I think, a big part of the appeal.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
I for one am against guns. But fortunately I live in a country where even owning a pepper-spray is against the law.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme How do you feel about gun rights, though? That's a different issue?
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1
I did answer that in my comment. I think they should stay outlawed. I don't wan't one. I don't wan't the psycho next door to have one. In fact I want as few of them in circulation as possible.
This works - look up the murder statistics for Denmark (where I live) and compare them to yours.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme That's right. If they were illegal, the police could send criminals to prison simply for having one.
I lived in Denmark for a summer. I never felt threatened or concerned for my safety. Not even a little.
ndrthrdr1 1 month ago
@ndrthrdr1 In Denmark, you must have had your head buried in the sand. According to Interpol, Denmark is almost as violent as the US in terms of violent crime - burglary, robbery, rape, motor vehicle theft, etc. They may not use as many guns to commit violent crimes, but the crimes are committed.
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
@itsjustameme Look at all violent crime in Denmark - Interpol is a good source. While there may be fewer gun murders there is ample violent crime. And, HIV in an assault crime can be just as deadly.
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
@Sandbag1300
Seriously? What kind of crimes are you referring to?
Please name just one crime related to violence or murder that is more frequent in Denmark that in USA.
For instance in the US you are 10 times as likely to be killed with a gun than you are in Denmark.
And your overall murder rate in the US is some 4 times higher than Denmark.
Source:
Wikipedia: Gun Violence
You have murder statistics like the countries that used to belong to the fucking Soviet union.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme For burglary, the rate in 2000 was 1868.06 for Denmark, 233.60 for Japan, and 728.42 for USA. Source:Interpol
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
@itsjustameme TRENDS IN CRIME
Between 1995 and 2000, according to INTERPOL data, the rate of murder increased from 1.13 to 4.03, an increase of 256.6%. The rate for rape increased from 8.44 to 9.32, an increase of 10.4%. The rate of robbery increased from 39.09 to 59.14, an increase of 51.3%. Source: Interpol
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
@itsjustameme What also concerns me about Denmark is the old data available to Citizens. I could only find data on violent crime that was OVER ten years old. What is going on over there? Is the government hiding information? The increasing trends in violent crime 10-15 years ago were alarming.
Sandbag1300 1 month ago
@Sandbag1300
Oh please - interpol stopped collecting those data altogether. Check your facts.
However I do have some fresh data from dansk statistik - those are probably the best data available.
The statistics for 2010 that I could find was for murder and attempted murder combined. (I can only find for 3/4 of 2011 but they are there as well) 2011 denmark had 194 cases out of a population of 5,5 million danes. That is 3,5 out of 100.000 for those two crimes combined.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme No, you didn't. You said you are against guns. I asked if you are against gun RIGHTS. Not the same issue.
But you have answered that question now. So tell me, why do you see the neighbor who owns a gun or two as automatically "psycho?" You understand the difference between making something illegal and getting rid of it, right?
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1
Well sorry if I'm not familiar with the jargon. I did think that it was the same but I gather that they are not.
To someone like me who lives in a country where guns are generally outlawed the two are the same - I didn't even think to make the distinction. Like the eskimos are said to have 50 words for snow then I imagine that americans must have 50 different words for stance on gun control. I consider myself fortunate to not live in such a country.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme Jargon? "Guns" and "rights?" I asked you two question in the comment you are replying to here. How about taking a stab at answering one of them. I asked you why you see the neighbor who owns a gun or two as automatically "psycho." This question seeks a reason. Please furnish me with a reason. I also asked if you understand the difference between making something illegal and getting rid of it.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 For example, alcohol was once illegal in the US. This did not get rid of it. It only drove it underground, creating a black market for the mob to exploit.
Abortion was once illegal in the US. This too did not get rid of it. It only drove it into back alleys and other unsanitary environments where the instrument of choice was an uncoiled wire hanger.
There are only a few countries in the world in which prostitution is legal but none in which it does not happen.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 Making laws against alcohol does not get rid of it. Making laws abortion does not get rid of it. Making laws against prostitution does not get rid of it. There is the act of making a thing illegal and the act of getting rid of it and these are two different acts. Surely this is not hard to see.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1
Like I said - where I come from there is not much distinction between the two questions and I actually thought I had answered them both.
But since you insist to pursue the matter I'll try again.
I am opposed to people having guns - even for self defence. I think that as few people as possible should be allowed to own one. I do recognize that police officers and military would have a hard time doing their jobs without, but their guns and ammo should be under massive control.
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme Are the comments I'm typing too long or something? Are you not willing to take the time to read the whole thing? The question of whether you object to gun rights or just to guns you DID answer and I moved on to two others.
You said, "I don't wan't the psycho next door to have one," so I asked how you get from someone owning a gun or two to being a psycho. This question you keep avoiding. How do you get from someone owning guns to someone being psycho?
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1 How do you get from someone owning guns to being psycho? I would like to follow your reasoning, so I'm asking what your reasoning is.
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1
And I would argue that in a society where guns are outlawed, there is no need for Joe ordinary to own a gun.
And I will look with suspicion on anyone who does. There are a few exception - people who are hunting or in a shooting club or something I can just about accept (grudgingly) - and these permits are very hard to get. But anyone else in Denmark who keeps a gun in their house is probably a psycho. And is keeping the gun there illegally.
Does that answer it?
itsjustameme 1 month ago
@itsjustameme Now you are contradicting yourself. Are you arguing for guns being tightly controlled or outlawed altogether?
lazyperfectionist1 1 month ago
@lazyperfectionist1
Now it is you who is not reading my posts. I would prefer guns to be outlawed all together!
You then asked me if I saw anyone who had a gun as a psycho. And my answer is no - not exactly everyone. I know that there are (a few) groups of people who have a gun and are not psychos.
I think it is strange that society lets these civilians get to keep guns and I cringe every time I hear that someone with a hunting rifle has shot his wife or something. But they are not all psychos
itsjustameme 1 month ago
/watch?v=W8Wxge7qcUM
CompleteRationality 1 month ago
@acromagnonman Thank you :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@acromagnonman Yeah, I also heard wasp spray works pretty well. It shoots farther than pepper spray so you don't have to get too close to the attacker.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel I second the pepper spray. A muay thai class wouldn't hurt either. lol
PoweredByMagnets 1 month ago
Weapons, now I have mixed feelings about that... I have bats in my closet just in case, but bat will only break bones or cause brian damage; but a gun will take a life, and sometimes you don't know who your shooting if you know what I mean. Hope this help, good luck. :-)
wiseassgamer 1 month ago
I was in a similar situation back in the mid 80s. I never wanted a gun then and I don't want one now. But I think if others want them, that's fine. I've held and fired guns. It makes me uncomfortable. I doubt that I'd ever use one even if I had it, & having it would just be an opportunity to make a bad situation worse. For me personally, I get the same uneasy feeling holding a gun that I get standing at a ledge. I know I have no intention of stepping off & probably wouldn't slip ... but I could.
gamutman 1 month ago
@gamutman Yeah, understandable :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
Was this late at night? So scary...
AwesomeRants 1 month ago
@AwesomeRants No, 11-ish, almost around noon :(
They thought no one was home because my parent's car was gone.
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@TheAnhedonicAngel I'm glad you're safe :)
AwesomeRants 1 month ago
@AwesomeRants Meee too Lol
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
Scary!
Realistically, I think there are few situations where a gun is useful. However, it sounds like you almost found yourself in one of those few situations! Do you live in a high-crime area? If so, then a gun might be a good idea. Also, maybe other measures: A stronger door? Home security system?
I see nothing morally wrong with having a gun for protection. I do think as a society we'd be safer if no one had guns, rather than everyone armed, but that's not the country we live in.
iamsmartacus 1 month ago
@iamsmartacus No, we live in a pretty quiet neighborhood, that's what's so shocking. I've lived in way worse neighborhoods than the one I'm in currently and this is the first time someone's tried to rob me. WE are taking measures to properly secure the house.
Yeah, it's a tough call :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
@acromagnonman Thanks man :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
As for the weapon, I say go for it. I wouldn't get a gun because I'm just a kid who would want to play with it. For protection its all about peace of mind. If owning a gun brings peace of mind then get one. There also other forms of protection though like self defense classes or my personal favorite swords.
MrShway88 1 month ago
@MrShway88 Yeah, I could always just shank 'em :)
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
I'll make a video on this tomorrow
Dar0A0Nakk 1 month ago
@Dar0A0Nakk Coolio :) I'm looking forward to it!
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago
1st
MrShway88 1 month ago
@MrShway88 Don't ever 1st on my videos! It's not that kind of party >:[
TheAnhedonicAngel 1 month ago