The Real Issue Behind Campus Shootings: It’s Not Law-Abiding Gun Owners

The anti-gun crowd has seized on yet another tragic event to push their narrative. Following the recent FSU shooting, mainstream media outlets and student activists are pushing back hard against proposed legislation that would lower the gun-buying age from 21 to 18 in the state of Florida. They claim such laws put students in danger. But the truth is, this isn’t about public safety—it’s about advancing a radical, anti-Second Amendment agenda that stifles the rights of law-abiding young Americans.

Understanding the Proposed Gun Age Legislation

Florida lawmakers are currently debating a bill that would reverse the 2018 legislation passed in the wake of the Parkland tragedy. That law raised the minimum age to purchase any firearm to 21, even for legal adults. Now, there’s an effort underway to restore the rights of 18–20-year-old adults who are perfectly capable of voting, joining the military, paying taxes, and living independently.

The FSU shooting is being manipulated by opponents of this pro-rights bill. Despite the emotional narratives being aired by some students, the core question remains: Should responsible, law-abiding adults be denied their constitutional rights based on the actions of criminals? At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we believe the answer is a resounding no.

Why Lowering the Gun Buying Age Makes Sense

The Second Amendment doesn’t come with an age restriction. If an 18-year-old can serve in the military and carry an M4 rifle in defense of our freedoms, why should they be disarmed at home? Lowering the gun-buying age is not about putting guns in the hands of children—it’s about restoring constitutional rights to capable adults.

Here’s why the bill to lower the gun-buying age is both logical and lawful:

• Law-abiding 18-20 year olds deserve the right to self-defense. They are legal adults. Denying them the ability to protect themselves doesn’t make campuses or communities safer—it makes them potential victims.
• Criminals don’t follow age laws. The FSU shooting, like many others, proves that bad actors will always find ways to obtain weapons illegally. Law-abiding citizens should not be punished for the irresponsibility of others.
• A trained individual is far less likely to misuse a firearm. That’s why firearms education—offered by institutions like Fortress Firearms Training—is so critical. We empower responsible gun owners through expert instruction and real-world preparedness.

Media Manipulation and Emotional Politics

In the aftermath of the FSU shooting, the public narrative has shifted rapidly away from facts and toward fear-mongering. Driven by emotion, some students have even called on lawmakers to “do more” to stop tragedies—often without proposing practical or constitutional solutions.

This politicization is dangerous. Instead of addressing the real issues like mental health, school security, or law enforcement responsiveness, many activist organizations are targeting the rights of responsible gun owners. And the media? They’re more than happy to paint anyone who supports the Second Amendment as reckless or radical.

Let’s be clear: Law-abiding gun owners are not the problem. According to a wide range of data, states with more permissive carry laws often see lower rates of violent crime. Why? Criminals don’t want to tangle with an armed citizen.

Fortress Firearms Training: Real Solutions Over Rhetoric

At Fortress Firearms Training, we understand that gun ownership is a serious responsibility. That’s why our mission is to transform ordinary gun owners into skilled, safe, and confident defenders of life and liberty.

Our firearms training services go beyond the basics. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned shooter, our classes are designed to:

• Increase firearm safety and handling skills
• Prepare you for real-life self-defense scenarios
• Instill discipline, responsibility, and legal knowledge

We teach our students that being a gun owner is about more than just having a weapon—it’s about staying educated, prepared, and responsible. That’s the kind of training we need more of—not more legislation that targets our freedoms.

Where Is the Outrage for Unarmed Victims?

One of the most frustrating aspects of the current debate is the selective outrage. When a shooting occurs, the national conversation immediately turns to gun control. But where is the outrage when a law-abiding citizen is disarmed by policy and becomes a victim?

Why aren’t we talking about:

• The failure of gun-free zones to prevent violence?
• The need for on-campus training and security solutions?
• The effectiveness of concealed carry laws in preventing crime?

These aren’t popular talking points in mainstream media—because they require confronting real-world truths that don’t fit the anti-gun narrative.

The Path Forward: Awareness and Action

As lawmakers in Florida reconsider the existing age restrictions, we all need to stay informed and engaged. There’s a reason this bill is receiving pushback—it restores freedoms that bureaucrats and activists have spent years trying to dismantle.

If we want to prevent future tragedies, we must stop blaming inanimate objects and start empowering people. More gun control hasn’t led to less violence; in many cases, it’s led to more vulnerable citizens. The path forward is education, training, and responsible ownership—not disarming law-abiding Americans.

Your Right to Bear Arms Starts with Responsibility

At Fortress Firearms Training, we believe in equipping our community with the tools, knowledge, and mindset to legally and safely exercise their Second Amendment rights. Whether you’re 18 or 81, you deserve the freedom—and the training—to protect yourself and your loved ones.

If you’re ready to take your firearms education seriously, contact us today. Don’t wait for lawmakers to decide your rights for you. Be prepared, be trained, and stand strong for liberty.

The Second Amendment isn’t a suggestion—it’s a guarantee.