Is it because of the sense of protection? Maybe. Is it because of the sense of power? Possibly. Or is it because of its history? Not quite sure.
I have a friend whose family is so much into handguns and weaponery, that they practically have a gun in many hiding places.
Under ALL their pillows, in a drawer [even in a kitchen drawer], under a cushion of a sofa, etc.
Practically, almost everywhere you look, the first thing you'll usually see is a handgun.
Tell, what kind of a family do you think my friend has?

He's not old enough to own a handgun. However, are you allowed [in the US] to own a side arm at the age of 17 while under adult supervision?
