How do you explain it to people who're pro-gun but didn't grow up owning them? I've had some conversations with freedom lovers over the years where I'd describe something as perfectly normal and they'd look at me as if I just announced I like to paint myself blue and march around my yard. Not hostile responses, but *confused* responses. e.g. I learned to shoot before I could read. Of course I had guns when I was four - didn't you? Preteens shooting guns unsupervised - sure, so long as they're strong enough to carry and shoot the gun (e.g. .22LR is great for youngsters, particularly lighter youth models). Leaving guns lying around the house is perfectly normal - you just teach gun safety the same as you'd teach kids not to play with knives or run in the street. Locking up guns is crazy unless you're worried about thieves while you're out of town - would you lock up a hammer or screwdriver? Taking kids hunting and cleaning game afterwards is great - that way they learn to appreciate dinner and aren't pansies who faint at the prospect of butchering an animal. Calling the cops is a joke - where were they the last time I got mugged? Doesn't everyone experience tragic boating accidents?