How many guns do gun owners need? Just read that gun sales are way up due to fear that Obama will curtail sales. Are these gun purchases by those who have none or more by those who already have them?

That's a tricky question, Rosie.

I own 18 guns at this point, and I am craving two more, even though there will never be a situation where I use them all (even in the same week).

There is nothing exotic about the two that I seek to purchase, and feel no need to hurry, as I am confident that they will not be banned.

Why so many, when you can't use them all?

My very first gun (a .22) is restored and on display. While nothing fancy - it is a gun my grandfather earned by selling Christmas cards when he was 11. He passed it to my Dad, who passed it to me - I have taught my children proper safety and sportsmanship with this very gun, which happens to be the first gun shot by 4 generations of my family. I have a granddaughter who will shoot it in another 2 years - which will make 5 generations.

So - sentiment is a reason some of us keep extra guns.

Practicality and effectiveness are other reasons. I have a variety of hunting rifles, which are suited for different conditions and different sized game. All are designed to have a variety of benefits in different situations. It all comes down to ensuring that you are harvesting game for the table in the most ethical and sportsmanlike manner possible. If you use a small caliber gun on squirrels and rabbits, you minimize damage to meat, where a larger caliber will destroy the animal and render the meat useless. In contrast, a smaller caliber on a larger animal will create undue suffering - One needs a larger rifle for this type of game.

And then there is art:

I have an affinity for over/under double shotguns. Some of them are beautiful works of art with elaborate engraving in the metal and elegant finishes on the wood. I have only one, and usually only use it to shoot clay targets. If I had money falling out of my ears, I'd have a couple more for display.

And Competition:

I keep 2 match rifles tuned up for various target competitions around the area. It is a great way to relax and enjoy the company of people who share your interests.

I could go on, but the simple truth is that people horde firearms for completely different reasons.

I don't worry about the loonies who stockpile assault weapons - because the simple truth is that they can only effectively use one at a time.