Do Rights Trump Ability?

"...THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE TO KEEP AND BEAR ARMS, SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED."

The constitution of the United States is clear. We have the right to keep and bear arms. This right has been fought over, and largely upheld throughout our nation's history. There is new ground with new technology that is under both attack and debate.

So the right is true. Montana allows any person 18 years or older, and who is legally allowed to possess a firearm, to carry upon their person a concealed weapon without a permit. There are two higher levels of carry, but at its heart, Montana allows citizens to carry without a permit.

The real question is do we have that ability? What are the skills we actually own (can perform on command)? What is our outer limits of engagement range? Is our awareness of our safety accurate?

The right to keep and bear arms is a right guaranteed for all in the United States. But the responsibility yo your fellow man, your family and yourself should trump just right. If we are not competent with a firearm, we are a liability to ourselves, our family and the public. If we use the firearm outside of our capability, we are a liability to ourselves, our family and the public. If we can't make good decisions about using force, we are a liability to ourselves, our family and the public.

We need to remember that every right comes with a comeasurate responsibility. Your responsibility as a firearms keeper and bearer is to be competent and know your abilities. If you are reckless, careless or overconfident, the wrong people get hurt. Take the responsibility seriously.

Be safe, be well.