***CLICK HERE to watch the video***
Some say it’s for protection.
Others say it’s to relieve stress.
But regardless of the reason, women are picking up guns at an ever-growing rate in Hawaii.
Cindy Kaneshiro has been shooting handguns for a just few months now
Originally Cindy really had no interest in firearms but she wanted to support her friend who was going through a bad divorce.
"And unfortunately it wasn’t a very good divorce situation so she was scared for herself so she wanted to protect herself better,” said Kaneshiro.
So they both enrolled in the handgun safety course put on by weapon safety group "Lesson in Firearm Aducation".
And they weren’t the only women there.
Hawaii is mirroring the national trend where according to a national survey, 23% of women now own a gun, up 10% from just five years ago.
"We are seeing a lot more women coming out. They are getting more involved with firearm shooting. It was a long time ago it maybe you see a few women in our classes and now you see almost half of the class the comes out is women,” said Travis Au Young, firearm instructor.
Many women attending the class not only want to learn about firearms for their own protection but also gain confidence so they can protect their family.
"I was afraid but you just gotta get over that fear because you never know. Your husband is not always going to be there to protect you so you should be involved. Learn how to do it. Learn the safety rules so you can protect your family,” said Rosalie Au Young.
After learning proper firearm handling it’s onto the firing line.
Most instructors say a 22 caliber is probably the best to start with do to its light recoil but very soon and after some practice you can move up to a 9mm glock that has a bit more of a kick.
And with more women joining the sport, it’s actually becoming a family bonding opportunity.
"And to have my family involved it is really fun and gratifying to spend some family time as well as team safety. So it is really fun for me as a dad and husband it is really cool,” said Au Young.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
