What I Learned at the Shooting Range

William F. Buckley Jr. did many things for the conservative movement, one of which was to infuse it with culture. He challenged us as conservatives to pursue life beyond only politics — a spirited pursuit of art, music, sport, leisure, entertainment, and engagement with society. It was this versatility — in a conservative fashion — that brought many Americans apathetic about politics to National Review’s readership and helped make him a celebrity with wide appeal. “Conservatism can be fun,” read Time magazine’s famous cover with Buckley’s caricature, capturing what he sought.

I’ve tried to follow his lead, and that includes in responsibly exercising the right to bear arms. As Congress weighs new restrictions in response to the actions of violent criminals, it is worth recalling — for some, discovering — the way the overwhelming majority of American gun enthusiasts interact with firearms: safely, legally, and as a cultural pursuit. It can, dare we say, even be fun.