I have used guns in self defense. I have used them for my own self preservation and to protect others.

I now consider myself retired. No longer in the field.
I have been shot, stabbed, physically attacked, and once someone tried to drown me.

We dont live in a perfect world. Most people who live in the, "Civilized West", have no idea of the reality that is out there.
You can trust me on this, guns are just one of the many tools used by evil people to enforce their will on the helpless and or defenseless.

Before there were guns, evil people were committing mass murder using swords.
Before that, it was sharpened sticks.

It is so very true what Wayne LaPierre, head of the NRA said a few days ago..."The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun, is a good guy with a gun".