They were putting aside some food and water for disasters and whatnot, but they were lost when it came to guns. They found websites that were supposed to help, but they trusted me for some silly reason.

As I wanted to be a good friend, I told them sure, I'd help, but then I stopped short.

I remembered when someone told me where to start, what type of gun I should first pick up, and I began wondering if that was really the right advice.

"Get a 12-guage," I was told. "You can use it for hunting and self-defense. It's the perfect gun."

Of course, I didn't do that, but I considered it sound advice.

But I don't anymore. Not for most people, anyway. Instead, I stay get a handgun in a caliber such as 9mm, .40, or .45 ACP for semi-autos or .38 or bigger for revolvers.