Guns are part of the American culture. About 30% of the general population or a staggering 98 million Americans own a gun. This is the highest rate of gun ownership globally, and there is no other country in the world that has ever surpassed this number. Guns are integrated into our lives and our culture. There is not a singular moment where it is not talked about. Chances are, you might have been thinking of owning a gun for quite some time now. There are many reasons why Americans chose to own a gun, and one reason might be for protection.
The Majority of Americans Own a Gun for Their Protection
If you’re thinking of owning a gun for your family’s protection, you’re not the only one. The majority of gun owners (67%) say that this is their main reason for owning a gun. This need for protection is not irrational even in a country like the US. Crime rates are growing every year despite the increased funds on law enforcement.
The scariest fact among it all is that property crimes or crimes that happen in people’s homes are the highest forms of crimes. These crimes include theft, burglary, rape, and manslaughter. These are scary crimes, and many Americans believe that they can protect their families from such crimes by owning a gun. The other reasons are hunting, gun collection, and competitive shooting. Only very few claim that they own a gun for their job or work reasons (8%).
You might be wondering if you should buy a gun now, while gun restriction laws aren’t all that strict. Well, the answer to that is that there is no rush. Gun restriction laws aren’t going to change anytime soon.
Gun Restriction Laws Staying the Same
The reality is that the entire country is too busy fighting the pandemic to enact any changes to gun restriction laws. Furthermore, it seems that we have come to a point where both democrats and republicans have agreed to most parts of the gun restriction law. There will always be someone who will go against it, and that’s the reality of every law enacted by the government.
However, it doesn’t mean the change will happen anytime soon. It seems that the 2nd amendment will stay, and the laws that govern it will stay the same for the next few years. So there is no rush to purchase a gun right now. But just in case, here are some laws that you need to know when purchasing a gun.
Laws You Need to Know When Owning a Gun
Before you buy a gun, you need to be at the right age. The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) prohibits anyone aged 17 below from owning any gun. Those who are 18 years old and above can purchase shotguns and rifles. Other kinds of weaponry like handguns are only accessible to those 21 years older.
Additionally, if you have a criminal history or have been diagnosed with a mental disorder, you’re less likely to be given a chance to own a gun. If you plan to purchase a gun, a background check will be done to ensure that you’re safe to own a gun.
When it comes to permits, only a few states in the US demand that you get a gun permit before owning a gun, so check if your state belongs to this list. Those who purchase a gun must get a license that costs $200 for the first three years and $90 to renew it. Gun laws regarding gun ownership depend on which state you live in, so check in with your local gun store and ask them about these laws before purchasing one.
Gun Care
By the end of the day, guns are an expensive investment. For many people, it’s considered to be a luxury item. This is why taking care of your gun is essential. Getting a good gun locker can protect your children from such hazardous items. It can also make sure that your gun is safe from any thieves. However, it’s not safe from storms and other catastrophes. For such disasters, you’ll need gun insurance.
Gun insurance is a growing market throughout the years because more and more Americans are purchasing guns. Because of this, there are now many companies offering gun insurance. The policies from these companies may differ from one another, but its main purpose is simple: to ensure that your gun is in safe hands. Additionally, gun insurance policies usually cover all kinds of natural disasters. So if you live in an area prone to natural disasters, then you must get gun insurance.
Here are some essential statistics and laws you need to know as a future gun owner. Remember that a sense of responsibility is the first thing you need to have if you plan on owning a gun. So make sure that you do your research and know these things by heart. It’ll keep you and your family safe at all times.
