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Amendment Quote by Jeff Cooper

“It is long been a principal of ours that one is no more armed because he has possession of a firearm than he is a musician because he owns a piano. There is no point in having a gun if you are not capable of using it skillfully.” quote by Jeff Cooper
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“It is long been a principal of ours that one is no more armed because he has possession of a firearm than he is a musician because he owns a piano. There is no point in having a gun if you are not capable of using it skillfully.”

Jeff Cooper

About This Quote

Source Book: Principles of Personal Defense, 1975

Firearms require skill, just like any tool; ownership alone doesn't confer competence.

In simple terms: Owning a gun isn’t enough; you need skill.

Key Takeaway

Practice and train responsibly.

Themes

responsibility skill tool mastery defense

Mood

serious pragmatic

Type

instructional cautionary

When to use this quote

  • self‑defense
  • law enforcement
  • personal safety

Key Concepts

firearm proficiency skill acquisition

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are you trained in your tools?
  • What practice routine do you follow?
A Different Perspective

Skill takes time and resources to develop.

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