There are some valid reasons to believe gun ownership can lower crime rates under certain circumstances. In fact, some studies hint at a correlation between reduced crime rates and gun ownership. A 2012 report from the CDC suggests guns may prevent roughly three million crimes annually. Below, the firearms education pros from Online LTC, a premier provider of CHL online classes, take a closer look at how gun ownership may contribute to lower crime rates.
Visible Guns Can Deter Criminals
A Department of Justice survey of incarcerated felons found the majority of respondents were more worried about meeting an armed victim than running into law enforcement officials. Since Texas is an open carry state, would-be criminals are more likely to be deterred if they see a gun openly and safely being carried. In a different survey of convicted felons that perfectly illustrates this point, 60 percent said they avoided committing a crime when they suspected or knew the potential victim was armed. Plus, odds are high that if a responsible gun owner is carrying openly, he or she is capable of and willing to use the firearm if necessary.
Confidence May Also Be a Deterrent
According to a list compiled by the NRA of things criminals tend to look for in easy targets, would-be criminals are often drawn to potential victims who appear to lack confidence or seem meek. If you happen to be a confident gun owner, criminals may be less likely to choose you as a potential target. Even when you’re not carrying your gun, it never hurts to walk tall and be aware of your surroundings to improve your personal safety.
Armed Business Owners Can Dissuade Criminals
There have been several instances of armed business owners thwarting robbery attempts or keeping criminals at bay. For this reason, it’s not a huge leap to say that responsible gun-owning business owners can play a role in lowering crime rates in their communities. This can also be the case with businesses that post signs stating the owners are legally armed.
Displaying a Gun May Be All that’s Necessary
GunFacts.info echoes the CDC’s findings about crime prevention related to guns. They state that approximately two million crimes are prevented each year in the U.S. because of guns. The site also notes that often, guns are never fired when used to deter criminals or prevent them from acting.
Simply “Not Knowing” May Deter Criminals
Criminals may be less likely to be active in neighborhoods or cities where gun ownership is known to be high. This is attributed to simply “not knowing,” meaning some would-be criminals may not feel it’s worth the risk to enter a home or business if there’s a chance someone could be armed. Noted author and gun rights advocate John Lott points to research suggesting “gun-free zones” actually attract more criminals compared to areas where gun ownership is more prevalent and not discouraged.
Whether you own a gun for crime deterrence, self-defense, or another purpose, it’s essential to make sure you learn how to carry and use it safely and follow the laws in your jurisdiction. Online Texas LTC is committed to providing the best firearms training possible. Whether you want to take a Texas concealed carry class online or you simply want to learn how to shoot and handle a gun safely, Online Texas LTC has what you need. Give us a call today at 512-675-2124.
