GUNS: They can cut both ways

As a use of force instructor I wish to respond to a variety of comments by readers regarding firearms usage, especially in light of recent shootings. “Guns kill, and guns are only for killing” is a gross oversimplification and is clearly not true. First, humans do kill with guns and many other things. Guns are designed to shoot a projectile. Many guns were designed primarily to shoot animals and people. However, many guns were made specifically to shoot holes in paper or other inanimate objects. We decide what and when to shoot, not the gun.

It has been stated, “Guns and the people who use them have the potential to hurt, injure and destroy.” Why, yes, we do. Therein lies another utility of a firearm. Sometimes some people need to be shot. Why do you think that we have justifiable homicide statutes? A violent felon would not be deterred if there was not a potential to kill or injure them. Sometimes a citizen or cop is forced to actually employ the countervailing use of deadly force to save an innocent life. Seven out of 10 people survive a handgun wounding. The intent is to stop their immediate aggressive actions, not necessarily kill them. In essence, they shoot to live or save a life, not to kill, per se.

A knife for that matter may be used to do the same. While there are many knife designs with specific uses in mind, they are primarily made to cut. Whether it is a steak, tomato or a person is solely up to the user. So it is with a gun. To lump police officers and other law-abiding gun owners in with gang members and maniacs is like comparing Julia Childs and Jeffrey Dahmer as similar knife users.

ROBERT SMITH

Coeur d’Alene