I'm not sure if she's so much anti-gun as she is not that knowledgeable about them. I'd have to learn quite a bit more about them myself to feel comfortable having them around, too. Once that took place, though, it would be good. We've just primarily relied on location as far as minimizing potential threats like robberies or home invasion—and in order to carry I'd need to get a concealed weapons permit, too. Thankfully, there's generally others walking around with those.
So, maybe one of these days. Having little ones and their parents about on a regular basis isn't so conducive to changing her mind, but once they move on, who knows? :)
Guns never jump up and injure or kill...There's always a person behind it.
Here we have to lock the firearm in an appropriate safe for the firearm different categories of firearm have different safes, and the ammo has to be locked separately. Never together with the gun. It's pretty safe. I don't know what the rules are but assume many keep their firearm loaded, especially if used for security purposes.
I guess it comes down to safety. I mean a firearm should never be left laying about in my opinion, even empty, and no one should touch one without the appropriate safety instructions first. I'm a pretty safe gun owner, observe all the form and safety rules of course. It's as safe as anything could be. A person is more likely to get hit by lightening in my front yard than shot (accidentally) by one of my guns.
I agree with you in that some more education needs to be undertaken before you make any decisions, but guns can be a very safe hobby if approached with responsibility and respect.
Maybe you should do a post about it mate, your decision-making process and reasonings...Pros and cons. That's would be cool. Stick in in The Pew if you want as it's certainly gun-related.