Sharing gun rights

May 18, 6:40 AMCleveland Gun Rights ExaminerDaniel White

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Courtesy of Oleg Volk

Every so often, a newspaper or news program runs a story about a non gun owner (usually a woman) who is afraid of guns who then goes and takes a gun class and is converted to being pro-gun. This time, it is The Boston Globe's turn.

Margot Livesey's experience is typical of the genre, but with a twist in the beginning. In Massachusetts (unlike many states) a training class and gun permit are required before ownership. Regardless, these stories always include gun training and when aired on the evening news usually include range footage of the new shooter.

Livesey's story progresses through the steps, completing the story arc from initial fear to confidence and the realization that guns aren't as scary as they are painted to be.

These kinds of stories are supported by hundreds of anecdotes I have heard over the years. While not 100% effective and won't work on someone truly brainwashed against guns, it is true that usually all it takes to convert someone casual anti-gun to pro-gun status is a trip to the range.

It is on the range where a person discovers, as Livesey did, that guns don't turn you into a homicidal maniac and are actually a lot of fun to shoot. The skill of shooting accurately is also easy to learn if you're willing, and anyone can soon be getting good scores on their targets after a little instruction.

If you're a non gun owner interested in following in Livesey's footsteps, casually mention your interest a few times around the office or amongst friends. You might be surprised by how many gun owners you already know, and many of them will be more than happy to take you to the range and help you get started. Another option is to visit your local gun shop. If they don't have a range, they'll know where one is located. Most gun ranges have guns available for rental and instructors ready and willing to give a short lesson, often for less than the price of a tank of gas!