I do agree that people don't respect firearms enough and are not trained enough. But Most criminals are not looking for a shootout and the victims possession is the deterrence. If its a violent attack I think you'd rather at least get off a miss than watch someone put a gun or knife to you and be persecuted. If it's a known 'fear of death situation' would you want to be defenseless, maybe in your own home? I do also agree that their are people that should NOT be allowed to have a gun. There are restrictions and rulings that need to be enforced. But everyone who does comply the laws with safety and usage protocol and qualified should have the option to own a gun. That said there is a need for age limits, drug use screening ( I think depression and mental heath meds restrictions, and phsychiatric disqualifications, should be in place and enforced) that exist and that need better management.