Firearms: weapons (guns) with explosive ammunition designed to propel a projectile at speeds fast enough to injure or kill upon impact. Guns can be harmful to the victim or user, and can be employed for offense or defense. Many people buy and handle guns when confronted by life threatening situations. The inexperienced, and panic stricken, often end up shooting themselves accidentally. Those who have not properly cared for their guns may suddenly discover that they do not function properly. Guns not hidden in a safe place (when not in use) may fall into the hands of criminals, or your own children. The results could be tragic. Most persons lack skill in aiming and firing a gun. The user will often hesitate or close his eyes when firing. This gives the intended victim time to react in his own defense. If you are on the defensive end, watch the user’s eyelids and/or triggerfinger for movement. As soon as movement is detected, take one large quick sidestep to move your body out of the line of fire. This is a good move because nearly all guns have a long trigger pull. Immediately after the first shot, strike a hard fast blow to the gun arm, wrist, or hand of your attacker. Kick, hit with your fist, or strike with a hard object. Your blow should be up or down using all possible strength. Then, use the defensive techniques discussed under the Attacker section. If you are the one with the gun, make sure you know care, cleaning, safety, and proper use. Beware of the above noted weaknesses of a gun, but do not hesitate to use one to save your life or the life of others. For handguns, use the point system of aiming. Keep both eyes open and quickly point the gun just as you would point your own finger. Do not take time to sight, because when you point with your finger, you automatically sight without realizing it. With a fast but steady trigger squeeze (not a jerk) you will be right on target. Before attempting to use a gun belonging to another person, consider the possibility of it being booby-trapped. The barrel could be plugged or drilled. The ammunition could have had the black powder removed and the shells packed with high explosive prima-cord. This makes the handgun a potential bomb. Some foreign police officers have used this technique to counter the hazard of being killed with their own guns. Last, but not least, know what any gun or ammunition is designed to do. There are many different types designed for many different purposes. A gun is not always an effective weapon unless you have the right one with the right ammunition. The best combination of three guns to meet all general non-military needs would be a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a high-powered rifle with telescope. Once you have them, do not forget that your first line of defense is still fast feet and a keen mind.