But progressives must also strive to know and understand gun owners better. Kids like those high schoolers in New Jersey, whose parents take them to a shooting range on the weekend, are in fact being taught to use guns appropriately: with plenty of supervision, in a contained and controlled atmosphere, alongside adults who are expertly aware of gun safety and want to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. There’s no reason to vilify them.

Advocates for gun control also need to be realistic. Guns are not going to disappear overnight. Hunting is something many national forests and private land owners have encouraged. Many rational and prudent Americans like the safety and comfort associated with having a weapon in their home for self-defense.