The purpose of the tool in question, is to provide the user with the ability to kill or at least inflict VERY severe harm to another human being and from a distance large enough to inflict that damage or death before the bad guy can harm you.
The thing to be aware of, consider and know the answer to is this:
~ Every thing in your world is about to change the moment you pull that gun out to brandish it with intent... That moment should be considered thoughtfully, daily and deeply. When the circumstances are such that you are forced to protect yourself, your family or your property, there is no substitute for a good gun and the ability to use it... But are you prepared to kill or maim another human? That weapon should not come out of it's holster or storage safe unless your intentions are clear and you're at peace with what you're about to do.
And if you have not truly thought this through and are comfortable with your answer to yourself, then please don't buy a gun and if you own one now, lock it away.
"The thing to be aware of, consider and know the answer to is this:
~ Every thing in your world is about to change the moment you pull that gun out to brandish it with intent.."
IMO, if you are in a situation where you have reason to use any type of deadly force, then your life is about to change regardless of whether you actually do use deadly force.
I agree that using deadly force is something that should be carefully considered and accomplished within the boundaries of the law. Making people afraid to defend their own life should not be a proper approach. If you are prepared mentally and physically then you are more likely to see the next sunrise.