I just came back from Switzerland a few days ago. AK-47s are legal, and the place is relatively an utopia as far as crime is concerned. So that sort of sparked my interest in the issue. I don't own a firearm myself.
Why not. All Americans should. All males 18-55 are members of the militia, as defined by the federal law, with state laws sometimes expanding on that. In Texas it's all person 18-65 (approximately). You are subject to being called to defend your state or nation, why not be ready? You are also expected to supply your own weapon in many cases, again why not be ready?
Besides shooting is fun.
You may want to join the NRA and UNDERSTAND that firearms, are an inert piece of steel, wood and plastic. I own four shotguns, three rifles, and five handguns. Most of these firearms have been in my family for over 100 years.
You can do target practice with a .22 at a paper target. Shoot Trap or Skeet (those 3-1/2 inch clay birds), go hunting with a shotgun for pheasant, duck or quail. Punch paper with a .22 pistol, revolver. And finally, work on final self defense skills with a .380, 9mm, .357, or 45 ACP.
Being prepared is not a bad idea when the bad guys kick in your door.
Join the NRA, read the articles and the message from the editorial in the American Rifleman; and the NRA's President's message. You will learn a lot.