Study Shows More Seniors Packing Heat

[Drizzt]

Study Shows More Seniors Packing Heat
Older Americans Crowd Gun Ranges

POSTED: 1:43 p.m. EST January 12, 2004
UPDATED: 2:11 p.m. EST January 12, 2004

OKLAHOMA CITY -- People over the age of 65 are most likely to own a gun, according to a new report published by the University of Illinois.

The study shows a change in gun ownership trends over the past two years. In 2000 and 2002, research showed middle-aged Americans the most likely group to own firearms.

"Even at my youngest, I was never strong enough to overcome anyone who had bad intentions," explained Rosalie, a grandmother who practices shooting at H and H Gun Range in Oklahoma City.

Rosalie's husband, Leroy, has a concealed weapon permit, which was issued through the state of Oklahoma. He said his firearm helps even the odds against criminals.

"I think most of your criminals are just bullies who have gotten older," he said.

Miles Hall, owner of H and H gun range, says many seniors have taken classes to qualify in firearms training.

"Certainly, the older folks are the people who we see the most of," he said.

Some gun control advocates have expressed alarm at the recent trend, saying some seniors, particularly those with dementia, should not carry loaded firearms.

Rosalie said doesn't think there is an immediate cause for alarm.

"You don't know what the future holds, so you don't know how feeble you might get," she said. "Until the day comes until I can hold a gun, aim it, and hit what I'm shooting at, I'm going to carry one."

Do you own a gun?
Choice Votes Percentage of 2673 Votes
Yes, but I don't carry it with me in public. 1105 41%
Yes, and I take it with me most places. 673 25%
No. 895 33%

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/news/2758398/detail.html

 

[ARperson]

Makes sense when you realize that this is the one segment of the population that actually grew up during a time when the word "gun" was neutral and 2nd amendment meant "individual" along with the rest of the rights in the BoR.

What it means is that the one segment of our population who have always had a neutral to good relationship with firearms are the most likely to be carrying.

It would be far more appealing from a progression of RKBA and 2nd amendment issues if the article stated that more senior citizens than ever were carrying. But it doesn't.

 

[Jeff Thomas]

This is logical ... which is why I've never understood the AARP's anti-self defense dementia ...

Not as much on their site as in the past, though you can find "Congress should eliminate gaps in and strengthen enforcement of the Brady Act and other federal gun laws." They clearly still believe the problem is solved by reducing rights. I'll feel better about the AARP when they figure out that helping seniors defend themselves is a wiser course.

Regards from TX

 

[scottgun]

Respect your elders.

Respect everyone, but give the old folks a little extra time and give em a brake. You might wish someone did so sometime.

This is typical media, since when did our 'older population' not have firearms. I choose to counter the anti stance by talking about my grand parents who fed the family, protected the farm and ensured domestic traquility all with a 12 guage shot gun.

-Scottgun

 

[seeker_two]

It's not "age", but "wisdom" that separate these seniors from the other sheeple...