In most states citizens can apply for a permit to carry a concealed gun with them. Many people do apply for such a permit because they definitely want to be able to defend themselves if the need should arise. There are plenty of citizens opposed to the idea though considering the number of people who end up using a gun to commit an act of violence rather than as a method of self defense.

There are strict laws about when guns can be used in self defense. You need to make sure you are aware of these guidelines because you definitely don't want to find yourself on the wrong side of the law. In most instances you can use a gun for self defense if it is registered and an approved weapon. You also have to feel like your life is in immediate danger and using a gun is the only way to protect yourself or others from that danger.

In some states the laws are more lenient. For example Colorado has a Make My Day Law that states it is legal to use a gun for self defense if someone breaks into your home. Even if you don't feel like you are in immediate danger you have the right to use the gun under such laws. There are some other guidelines that play into this as well though such as the gun being registered.

Guns can be a very valuable tool for defending yourself if you are educated about how to store them and how to use them. Hopefully you won't ever be faced with a serious situation where you feel it is necessary to use a gun on someone for self defense. However should that situation arise you need to feel confident that the laws will be on your side to support the decision you have made.