Oh yeah, I'm glad you called this out, the freedom aspect, because it's totally true. Knowing what we know, having the confidence we do, gives that freedom as you say, even if it's just the freedom to feel confident in a crisis. That's important because most are not, become immobile or run around ineffectually and that doesn't get shit done. Jocko knows his shit man.
I'm good with a handgun, good enough that I'd not want to face myself were that possible, but it's the long gun at long range where I feel most comfortable. I believe having a good working knowledge of both is very important and I've always worked hard to ensure I don't let skills decline in one, in preference for the other. It's like preppers...Many focus on food storage and forget about comms, medical, navigation, security, mobility etc.
Best to know a little about a lot...Even better to know a lot about a lot.