Basic Pistol

In Basic Pistol, sociologist Harel Shapira offers an immersive exploration of the world of gun schools and the culture that surrounds firearms in America. Through his detailed journey into a Texas firearms training community, he uncovers the beliefs, fears, and identities that drive gun ownership and the pervasive sense of vulnerability. The book highlights how this education shapes attitudes toward safety, violence, and social relationships, ultimately suggesting that addressing gun violence requires understanding those who carry the guns.