I have long since learned that arguing about gun control with anyone who has a set opinion is futile. As someone who is pro-gun and pro-self-defense, please allow me to offer the following:

While firearms are illegal to carry concealed in Ohio, and illegal on campus, they are perfectly legal to own off-campus.

However, firearms are not for everyone. More so than many tools, an awesome responsibility comes with ownership. A gun is not a magical talisman that wards off danger. It is, with the proper training and mindset, an extremely effective method of self-protection when combined with other strategies for making your home, loved ones and self safe.

Without this training, it is a useless, heavy piece of steel that will merely cause tension. Too many people are under the illusion that they are protected by a dusty gun under the bed they never practiced with, much less used under stress at 3 a.m. when someone has just broken into their home.

Owning a firearm is an intensely personal decision, requiring owners to ask hard questions about themselves. Being mentally prepared to take the life of another in defense of your own or your loved ones is not an easy thought for many people. Having the power to affect another’s mortality should cause you to question your deepest held moral values.

When combined with the proper training and legal knowledge, this soul-searching should lead people to be respectful of life, but at the same time, resolute in the face of danger. It does not mean you have to be a blood thirsty killer – itching to try out your new shotgun. It merely means that you are prepared for the worst which will – luckily – almost never happen.

Regardless of your opinion on firearms, your safety is your responsibility. When you are in trouble, will the police arrive in time to save you? Ask anyone who has been mugged. Despite their best efforts, police are not staffed enough to maintain a constant vigilance over you and your family. Anyone who says the police can protect you is either a liar or severely overconfident.

Finally, whatever your defense of choice: firearms, pepper spray, kubatons or martial arts, it must be practiced seriously for it to be able to work. Anything else would create a false sense of security. Practice as if your life depends on it. It just might. Keep an eye on your surroundings, watch out for your friends and be safe.

Thomas MarkerOSU Staff Member