Picking the Right Gun, Part 1: Rifle, Shotgun, or Handgun

In recent months, riots and civil unrest have opened a lot of eyes to how bad it can get in a hurry and untold masses of people across this nation have come to realize that they are the only person truly responsible for their security and that of their family. In addition, this week was the four year anniversary of the terrible Pulse massacre, the founding event for Operation Blazing Sword. In light of these two things, this seems a good time to offer a basic primer on selecting the right kind of weapon for your needs.

There are two big considerations when you start to select a defensive weapon:

1. How do you intend to use it?
2. What are the laws concerning ownership, possession, and use in your area?

We'll start with the easy one, the law question (this is probably the only time I'll call the law 'easy'.) If you can't own it or effectively use it, time spent considering it is wasted. You can contact your local police or do a Google search for firearms law in your area, but probably the easiest way to get good information is to contact your state's firearms advocacy group. For me, it's the Utah Shooting Sports Council. I can think of a couple others off the top of my head, and if you need help finding yours, ask in the BCP Facebook group and we can certainly point you in the right direction.

Once you know what you're able to own, it's time to look at your intended uses. Are you simply looking for a gun to keep at home, in case danger comes to your doorstep? Are you planning on getting a CCW permit and carrying your weapon with you? Are you looking for a defensive tool, but don't think a firearm fits your needs? Take some time to seriously consider these questions, as the answers will tell you what kind of gun you need:

• Handguns: If you're planning to carry, a handgun is the only choice. They're a bit less accurate than long guns, with lower power and shorter range, but their size makes up for it.
• Rifles: Rifles offer extreme accuracy and very good power up to long range, at the cost of portability and concealability.
• Shotguns: Shotguns deliver devastating power at short to moderate range, with a reduced capacity and concealability akin to rifles.

In the coming weeks, I'll delve into the particulars of these types of arms, what to look for and what to consider between them.

The only security you can count on comes from you. It is up to you how you provide it.

Lokidude