How does anyone reconcile the fact that innocent people are killed every day buy gun owners

[StateApparatus]

7. The real answer...

...is that they don't care. Gun owners will yammer on at great length about their rights, and self defense, and freedom from tyranny etc., but the truth of the matter is that owning guns makes them feel powerful and safe, even though it really does neither. Until one of their children accidentally shoots someone, or is shot, gun violence is a far-away statistic that happens to other people. Tragic, yes, but of small importance compared to their "right to bear arms."

Never underestimate the potential of the human mind for self-delusion. Yes, a gun might prove an effective defense against a burglar or a rapist... but you are statistically more likely to shoot yourself or a family member. Yes I suppose hunting might be considered a sport (??) Do you need an automatic pistol to hunt? Yes, our founding fathers wanted the citizenry to be ably to resist the government if necessary. Do you really think a few thousand out of shape, half-trained, weekend-warriors in surplus camo can resist a vast, technologically advanced military?

These people would do themselves a favor and admit it: they're afraid. They're afraid of taxes, of blacks, of Mexicans, of gays of the future. They're afraid they don't control their destinies, and they're right: nobody controls the future. Sadly, having weapons makes them feel like they can exert some force. Unfortunately, some of them decide to exert that force, and society pays the price.