Increased crime rates, the movement to reduce funding for police departments, and the general anxiety stemming from uncertain times like natural disasters or potential future pandemics have spurred a rise in both gun ownership and the enrollment in gun training schools.
Many individuals, like Eric Stieber, express their motivations for engaging in firearms education as a response to the perceived chaos and vulnerabilities prevalent in urban areas. Stieber, a chef from Arizona, highlights the shift in mindset, stating, “People no longer wish to remain defenseless and vulnerable to criminal activities.”
“While participating in a week-long handgun course at Gunsite Academy in Arizona, Eric noted the stark contrast between the enjoyment of the experience and the serious contemplation it brought about concerning the gravity of using firearms in real-life scenarios. He emphasized the weight of the responsibility one carries when faced with the prospect of using a gun against another human being.
“This part was fun,” said Arizona chef Eric Stieber. “But there’s all the things you have to think about of real life situations, of it’s not going to be a steel target. It’s going to be a human being behind that. And that’s a lot of responsibility to take with you.” (Fox News)
It’s not just handguns. Gunsite owner Buz Mills added combat tactics with AR-15 and bolt-action rifles. More than 10% of students are women.
“I think there are a lot more, especially women who are interested in shooting and handguns and protecting themselves,” says retiree Cindy Hartin.
“I’m a little cautious when I mention it to friends and family, but most people are really excited to hear and ask me lots of questions.”
That’s different from 10 or even 20 years ago when Mills says there was more of a stigma attached with gun ownership. Today, that isn’t so much the case in most of America, where Supreme Court decisions and state laws are more friendly to gun rights.
“Are people in general, becoming more comfortable being associated with firearms than they had in the past?” says Mills. “Yes, and that is absolutely the truth. Because firearms are becoming more mainstream.
