We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Pros and Cons of Keeping a Gun for Home Protection?

By Lauren Romano
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 22,243
Share

While some people may not believe in keeping a gun in the home, those who are considering it should be aware of the pros and cons before making the purchase. From keeping the weapon away from children to having protection from an intruder, there are several aspects that a homeowner must consider. Before buying a gun, a homeowner must review the laws of the area that he or she lives in, and he or she may also be required to have a license for the firearm.

One pro of keeping a gun for home protection is that some people may feel safer having it in the house. There are some individuals who worry about not being able to protect themselves, and having the weapon there may ease the fear. Individuals who are away from home may also feel safer knowing that their partner has the protection there if it is needed.

Having a gun in the home may also allow a homeowner to defend himself or herself against an intruder should the moment arise. Those who do have a gun should learn how to use it safely and be prepared for the possibility that it might be used. Taking proper safety courses to use the weapon can be a huge asset.

If there is a gun in the house, however, it is possible that children could get their hands on it. Guns should always be kept under lock and key, preferably in a safe. Unfortunately, some kids may be able to get a hold of the combination and gain access to the weapon, and they could injure themselves or others. Children should always be taught about weapons in the home and their potential danger. Many families enroll their children in gun safety courses so that they understand the seriousness of having a weapon in a home.

What some may not realize is that while a gun can be used against an intruder, the intruder can also potentially use it against the people in the home. Should someone come into the home and get his or her hands on the weapon, the situation can take a turn for the worse very quickly. This possibility is one the owner of the firearm must think about carefully before bringing it into the home.

Evaluating all the pros and cons of keeping a gun for home protection should not be done lightly. It is a very important decision and a homeowner must consider not only personal safety but also the safety of those who are also living in the home. People considering buying a gun should avoid making snap decisions and really take the time to really think about if it is the right option.

Share
HomeQuestionsAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By anon995781 — On May 25, 2016

I have been a police officer for 28 years, and feel there are no other means that a person can have that provide defense against a violent attack. Defensive tactics, pepper sprays, tasers etc, may or may not work, I will not take those odds with my life or the safety of my family. A firearm is the great equalizer.

Let's be clear: there are dangerous people in the world. Reasoning with someone intent on harming or killing you is not an option. That being said, a firearm is nothing more than a tool and just like any tool, it takes responsibility and training to properly and safely operate. Any tool, if it be a firearm or a chainsaw, requires education and training. A gun doesn't have a mind of its own, so if you get a gun, please take the time to train yourself and be responsible.

By anon354076 — On Nov 05, 2013

I feel that no matter what they decided to do about the problem, they will never solve it at all.

By anon309299 — On Dec 15, 2012

Where are these statistics that support you?

By vigilant — On Oct 09, 2012

Looking at it in purely economical terms, a gun is a very affordable way to protect your home. Security systems are expensive to install and require a monthly subscription. A gun requires some initial investment, but once you have it you rarely need to put more money in to it. You get a lot of peace of mind for a very low cost.

By nextcorrea — On Oct 08, 2012

I think that there are only cons. The idea that having a deadly weapon in the hands of an untrained person in a very stressful situation makes anyone safer seems ridiculous to me.

And the statistics support me. If you have a gun in the home it is a lot more likely to shoot someone you don't want than to stop a dangerous criminal.

Share
https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-keeping-a-gun-for-home-protection.htm
Copy this link
HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.