Desertdog
Member
If we could only get the authorities in charge to accept this truthful statement.
Packing Heat the Legal Way
http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/new...ntent_id=3BAF08F5-F429-4FDC-8CBF-C331286910BF
Video
With Memphis homicides on the rise this year, there have been increased calls for greater gun control. But gun owners say that's not the way to curb crime.
The Tennessee Department of Safety tells Eyewitness News there are 162,107 people licensed to carry guns in the Volunteer State. Of that number, 23,154 permits were issued to gun owners in Shelby County.
"The people causing the problems are not the people with permits," says Tom Givens, owner of Rangemaster in East Memphis. "The people doing all the crimes are criminals who don't own guns legally."
After a run-in with a burglar 5 years ago, Brian Sorrentino decided to buy a gun, but he knew his decision carried a lot of responsibility.
"I've undertaken a lot of training. I have a carry permit now. I'm quite comfortable in my ability to defend myself and my family," Sorrentino said.
Taking guns away from citizens who pack heat the legal way, Sorrentino says, won't stop criminals.
"The criminals will always be armed. They always have been armed," he said.
Sorrentino points to the stabbing last week at Schnucks as proof that gun ownership is a good thing. A man who worked next door to the grocery store saved the day by getting his gun and holding the suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.
"I think firearms are necessary to protect your family these days," said Sorrentino.
Buying a gun in Tennessee is easier than getting a driver's license. Applicants fill out a simple form, undergo a computerized TBI background check and within about 10-minutes they can walk out of the store with a handgun.
Sorrentino said, "The gun alone doesn't solve problems. You have to learn how to use it."
You also have to pass an 8-hour course and buy a permit from the Tennessee Department of Safety if you want to carry your weapon.
Gun control advocates give Tennessee a D+ when it comes to shielding families from gun violence. The Brady Campaign, named for James Brady, handed out that grade. Brady was the White House Press Secretary who was shot during an assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan.
According to The Brady Campaign, Tennessee needs stronger laws to protect children and more local laws to regulate gun ownership.
