Firearms: Tools Or Objects Of Personal Expression?

By Tom Knighton

Earlier this week, I was reading a post by Tamara Keel regarding whether people should carry so-called “barbecue guns.” Like a lot of people, I’ve often thought about whether these highly customized and often decorative guns really have a place in personal defense.

To be clear, I have no problem with people owning them and never have. Buy whatever you want and can afford. I really don’t care.

The question is whether people should actually carry these pistols, and I’ve personally gone back and forth on this one.

On the one hand, a carry gun is a tool, an instrument meant to protect you and yours from harm. It’s something that could be taken from you following a shooting, at least for a little while as the authorities sort out the details. After all, your pistol is evidence until you’re cleared of charges. While not exactly disposable, it’s something you shouldn’t be too attached to.

On the other, I like the idea of one’s sidearm being an extension of them and their personality. Not only does it make the pistol unique, but it also seems to create a connection between a person and their pistol.

Keel apparently sees the two sides as …Read the Rest

Source:: Bearing Arms