The stories going around about the non-gun owning public swamping gun stores – particularly but not always in infringing locales like California, New Jersey and others – are all over social media. They’ve generated two lines of response.
One is like that of ace-trainer and exasperated gun owner John Farnam. The story he tells on his (currently via email only) “DTI Quips” is of a ‘progressive’ type who asks what gun he should buy “for home protection.” The response is frustrated bemusement; this fellow who considered us all as paranoids and who knew the government would “be there” when he was in need, now wants to join the brigade.
As John notes, it’s a little late for that. The ship sailed – without you. Maybe next time, you could actually think for yourself. John, while sympathetic, can’t help this fellow. Perhaps no one can – now.
The response in social media was measured in levity – they thought we were crazy – and in disgust. The disgust part was typified by one common-tater (thanks, Claude!) who noted that we can use this as an opportunity for outreach, to increase our numbers. It strikes me that it could be like welcoming California types to Colorado . . . so they can vote the same infringement nonsense into Colorado law they had in California . . .
But, hope springs eternal, it was said. In keeping with that, there’s a new page on Facebook, started by Claude Werner, to address the questions potential (or actual) new gun owners have: New Firearms Owner Information Page.
It seems that buying the gun, ammo and whatever support gear the newly enlightened thinks they need isn’t enough. We know that reading the manual is unlikely – so maybe social media outreach would help.
It certainly won’t hurt. Along with NRA Safety Rules and the Metro DC Police Online Safety Course linked in the page, there’s safety info from NSSF on safe storage. Sure, he’s linking stuff that’s already out there – but he’s putting it in one place where all (who care to) can find it. And I get the feeling he’ll be adding to it.
So there may be some time off for some folks while some of us continue to work away. Consider it time for a new skill. Or to add to skills you already have. Concerned about a lack of ammo? Claude also has his 1000 Days of Dryfire page on Facebook. That’s a good place to check in as you develop gun handling and precision without the use of ammo.
It’s a time of great change – but when isn’t? You can work to improve our image with the non-(but soon to be) gun owning public and increase your skills – or you can binge watch whatever passes for TV programming these days.
Stay safe.
- - Rich Grassi
