Charlotte handgun instruction changed view on firearms

JASLYNN VORACHITH | THE CHARLOTTE POST

Jaslynn Vorachith’s first target practice with a handgun resulted in varying results.

A shooting range changed my perception on guns.

The right to bear arms defines America, although Americans are split in terms of gun use and control. According to a 2024 Pew Research on Key Facts About Americans and Guns, there is a partisan divide with 45% of Republicans owning a gun compared to 20% of Democrats. The left usually leans towards no guns at home and stricter laws on ownership, while the right feels the opposite.

For me, I initially was afraid of the mere idea of guns. To challenge the anxiety, I decided to face my fears head-on.

I brought my partner along to look into engaging a private instructor. We stumbled upon a certified concealed carry instructor who previously worked on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police SWAT team.
The process was straightforward. We went to a classroom where she was giving us lessons on proper use and how to respect the weapon. What made it complex were the minor details that can affect aim. The way you grip the gun, finger placement and stance determine accuracy.

For the best home defense, the instructor advised us to use a 9-millimeter, a powerful but manageable weapon. She demonstrated firing the pistol. I was stunned. I could feel the shock throughout my body, the vibration on my skin and chest. It’s an experience you have to be in person to understand, and before I knew it, it was my turn.

I was terrified. Anticipating the loud bang made it nerve-wracking as well as preparing for the recoil. All I had to do was pull the trigger. It was my turn to give permission, to release the immense power. The strength of the shot was overwhelming to the point where I was doubting if this was for me.

I didn’t want that to be the case and give up. So, the instructor kindly suggested a 22 mm so that I wouldn’t have to worry too much about kickback. Essentially, it would feel like a toy which made me more inclined to try again. I felt I was in better control and could handle myself and the gun. After trying the 9mm, my palms were sore from the recoil.

It took some time to build my stance on gun ownership. I eventually saw my fears were a good thing, how I understood the responsibility it takes, especially as a petite and vulnerable woman. I would need a firearm to overcome any physical threat; therefore, personal safety is a concern.

I survived an attempted home invasion once. I was home alone at 4 p.m. when someone tried the doorknob. Fortunately, they never broke in but at that moment I had nothing to defend myself if they did. Even in my own home, I didn’t feel safe.

Based on 2024 statistics, women are least likely to carry compared to men showing 58% of women didn’t see themselves owning a gun.

I’d rather not shy away from firearms. I instead like to take advantage of the Second Amendment, to take matters into my own hands in protecting myself and the ones I care about.

Jaslynn Vorachith, an emerging journalist fellow at The Post, is a senior at Johnson C. Smith University.

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