"Bod" wrote in message
...

We carry them for the same reason we wear seat belts. It is
prudence, not fear.

That makes no sense, if you're not frightened, then why do you need
to carry a gun?

First of all, very few of the people who own guns carry them. Other than
police, of course.

Secondly, owning a gun and having it available is rather like havong money
in the bank...you may not need it now but it is comforting to know it is
there if you need it.

Thirdly, Americans are not frightened. just prudent, as someone said.
However, although I don't walk around trembling in my boots, there are
places - mostly in large cities - where I would not go at night. No one
with a lick of sense would.