I think the fact that there is such a heated debate about the issue reflects the fact that most on the other side don't view guns as one of many tools.
Hammers are a tool with a specific use, yet they can also be used to kill. Screwdrivers are a tool with a specific use, yet they can be used to kill. Boxcutters, steak knives, pipe wrenches, chainsaws, baseball bats, scissors, shovels... are all tools with a specific use, and all have been used to kill.
Guns, on the other hand, have only one use. Guns are a tool with one specific purpose, which is shooting a small piece of metal in a very high velocity with intent to strike another object. How you use it, based on intent, does not alter how it is used. A gun used properly has no effect on desire or intent. A gang banger who wants your car can use a gun properly and get what he desires. I can use a gun properly to prevent him from doing so. Either way, someone could end up bleeding from a hole in their body.
People will react differently and have different opinions when viewing someone with a gun in a holster versus someone with a tool belt full of hand tools. Either person could use their tools with the intent to harm or defend. But only one of those guys can build a fence or repair an air conditioner with their chosen set of tools. The public is not ignorant of how tools can be used. No one wants to ban hammers, screwdrivers, etc. because they can, in theory, be used in an inappropriate way that may cause harm. People want to ban guns because they can, in theory, be used in an inappropriate way that may cause harm, as well as cause harm when used in the manner in which they were designed.
Anti's don't consider that in the absense of guns, a person with criminal intent can and will re-appropriate any other object into a weapon.
Guns are single purpose tools. The result of the tool, used properly, is what many people disagree with/ fear.
originally sung by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Well hand guns are made for killin'
They ain't no good for nothin' else
Saturday Night Special
Other than target shooting, which is simply practice for the real thing, how is this untrue in any way?