How Do We Make A Difference?

[HoustonGrey]

It has been interesting watching the gun culture the last few months... Now we see thousands of people rushing to get their guns before Obama bans them. It is obvious that the gun culture could make a difference before this happens. If as many people that bought guns the last few weeks were also politically active I can't help but think we could make a difference...

Case in point - Since January 1, I have introduced 7 new people to firearms. Most of them I work with, but this was the first time I got pro-active to introduce and educate them on handguns. Every single one of them had a great time and have now purchased a handgun. Many of them are now considering a concealed carry license in their various states.

My next step is to help them understand that "most" concealed carry classes will teach them legalities of lethal force but not necessarily train them to defend themselves with a handgun. They need more training... I have coordinated a Tactical Handgun 101 class for Randy Cain, guntactics.com, at the Columbia Police Range in late May. My hope is that many of these individuals will take the class at my urging. If you know anyone new to shooting this would be a great opportunity for them in the local area.

Next I need to help them understand the importance of joining the NRA. Last I checked no one in Washington will give me an appointment to speak on gun rights. The NRA is one of the most powerful lobbies in the US but we only have 3.5 million members. What kind of difference could be make if we were over 10 million strong?

I know I am probably preaching to the choir here but I think if every gun geek (and you know who you are!) used a three point plan like this we could really make a difference.

1. Introduce as many people as possible to the safe use of firearms.

2. Encourage them to seek professional training to defend themselves.

3. Encourage them to join the NRA.

I just feel like we are reacting or just giving up when we run to buy the guns before he bans them... Doesn't that sound like we think the fight is already over?

That is how I have started getting active but I don't know much about what we could do politically in the area as a group. Any Ideas??

[midtennchip]

I agree, NRA membership is the first step in the process. But, it occurs to me that the NRA (unless they are doing it and I just don't know about it) is missing the boat on the recent gun purchases. If the NRA could have put it together fast enough (maybe impossible), it would be a great idea to approach FFLs about adding the cost (or maybe splitting the cost) of NRA membership to the gun price and have new buyers sign up. To avoid duplicate fees, the FFLs could offer a "discount" to NRA members.

I know certain authorized vendors are already doing this, but it would make a big difference with all the new buyers for FFLs to be doing it right now.

[Guest jcoyle6]

If there is a spot open in the May class, please let me know.

[HoustonGrey]

PM sent Justin... Plenty of spaces open

[Bassoneer]

Great post. I just now getting back into guns after being out of it for years. First, I got my 12-year old son hooked. I'm still working on my wife. Then the guys are work...several of us went through the permit process together and we go shooting together. Others are asking about it, and are on the verge of trying it for the first time. Several grown men that have never held a gun in their hands. So, I hope to have several new shooters in the next few months. I am a member of the NRA, but I have not asked any of my co-workers...I will begin doing so. Again, very good post. Very proactive. Thanks, B

[Guest bluecanary25]

/mounting soapbox

Folks, ya'll missing a more potent method of making a difference.

Join and be active in your local 2A organizations. The NRA is a national organization. Hard for them to cover every local situation. I am not knocking the NRA. It looks to the "Big Picture", not the many small skirmishes in city halls and state capitols. These local fights need local support. Citizens vote and that is how local politicians stay in office. A single voice is often lost in the din, but a chorus can be heard... (hey, that sounds impressive. Wish I could site where I heard it....)

So join your local 2A choir. Sing out that you don't want a chalk line as your last portrait. Let your officials know that a video is a good method for recording events, but sucks at preventing crimes! $0.02

/dismounting</DISMOUNTING soapbox from>

Edited November 20, 2008 by bluecanary25
to clarify

[Guest Jcochran88]

I agree NRA is the first step. As you all know there are only a hand full of people making the laws and it is our responsibility to let those who do the law righting for us hear from us. if they only here from the otherside on these matters then that is where they tend to let there vote go, remember it is a job to them they want to keep as many people happy that they can so they will be re-elected.

just my .02 I would like change please.

[Guest flyfishtn]

Besides the NRA, you need to look at the NRA-ILA which deals directly with our rights and court cases.

And like others have said, be active!!!

[NuTcAsE]

Teach your children. A lot of us at this point can only defend it, they have to carry it on.

[Guest 04heritage]

Nutcase said it perfect.

[Guest Jcochran88]

Teach your children. A lot of us at this point can only defend it, they have to carry it on.

+111111111111111111111111111

[HoustonGrey]

Forgive my ignorance but what is a 2A organization?

Anyone interested in a little challenge? What if every NRA member signed up two new members? I have Father-in-Law & a Brother-in-Law who both need a membership. I think I will get them a gift membership. I can sign them up at a discounted rate of $25.

All these new shooters I have worked with purchased Glocks and want a maintenance class since they have never cleaned a handgun. Maybe I should charge the price of an NRA membership to come to the class...

Surely as shrewd and intelligent as we are to be gun owners we could talk two more people into joining. Anyone game??