Our guns, in photos: Stories, reasons and beliefs behind our firearms

By Christopher Davis

I'm the Yankee, pictured firing a reproduction .58 caliber Springfield rifle with a Sons of Confederate Veterans Memorial Day Honor Guard in Fresno, Calif., some years ago.

Being a longtime gun owner and recreational shooter, I follow the present gun control debate with a good deal of interest (concern), as politicians, the media and those opposed to the ownership of firearms (of any type) lump responsible and law-abiding gun... more 

By Christopher Davis

I'm the Yankee, pictured firing a reproduction .58 caliber Springfield rifle with a Sons of Confederate Veterans Memorial Day Honor Guard in Fresno, Calif., some years ago.

Being a longtime gun owner and recreational shooter, I follow the present gun control debate with a good deal of interest (concern), as politicians, the media and those opposed to the ownership of firearms (of any type) lump responsible and law-abiding gun owners with individuals whose sole purpose for gun possession is to do no good.

Before any political agreement can be reached, this most neglected idea must be understood: Responsible citizens cause no harm to anyone.

A member of the National Rifle Association, I feel their political power may go too far in stirring the emotions of the anti-gun population.

During my lifetime, I have enjoyed the time spent in the pursuit of shooting activities with good friends and my (now adult) children, and hope that in the future my two grandchildren will be allowed to do the same. less