I agree with this last part. I bought a .45 semi automatic 1911 model handgun in high school in the 80’s. It had the numbers removed and came with bullets. $400 bucks. Within the range of anyone who wanted one.
My high school was one of the highest test score achieving schools in the country at the time. I grew up in an upper middle class to upper class area. Not the “hood” for sure.
It’s easier now. You can buy most anything on the street today.
But I sure don’t agree with your confidence having loaded weapons around children when you are not supervising.
I live out in the woods in the farmland and I wouldn’t say the kids here who have gun loving parents are more responsible with weapons.
If anything the kids where I grew up near 3 major cities in the neighborhoods we feared and respected guns as we didn’t ever see them except on cops and criminals. And on tv.
Here the kids bring out guns and show them off to everyone with pride. Not a smart thing to do with a weapon. Gives them unneeded attention. You never know who might get ideas.
I am sure not seeing better gun education among the hunters. Lol.
I have said it before i know my kids are perfectly fine with guns around.
If i was unsure i would lock them.
The type of gun person i am and my kids are
That muzzle doesnt sweep anything that cant be shot at any point.
Guns are always pointed. in a safe direction.
My kids have seen so many guns they are not interested frankly
That said as long as your kids arent mentally handi capped award winners
Let a child look at a gun and touch it in a responsble way of course.
After that the mystery is gone lol
The kids that get shot accidentally are by kids that dont know the 4 rules .
These are NEGLIGENT DISCHARGES
NOT ACCIDENTAL.
As you dont accidentlybpoint a gun at someone and see if its loaded by pulling the trigger
If you teach a kid it is ALWAYS always always loaded. They don't do that not the smart ones anyways