As a former military police officer and graduate of the California POST police academy, I am an avid gun enthusiast.
The valid reason is that some of us enjoy shooting weapons. Legal ones.
This was my duty weapon.

9mm-15 rounds (Cali ones are 10). Nothing really crazy. Certified marksman 3 times.
I still love to shoot them. It's sentimental.
This is my home protection piece.

Mossy 12 gauge 500 cruiser with tactical blinding flashlight.
There is no sound in the world more intimidating that hearing one of these racking a round at 3am in an empty dark house.
Well, nothing but this.
As you can see, my intruder detection and eradication system is still growing. Just a baby at 4 months old. He'll be about 115 lbs when he's full grown and strong as a linebacker. Six more months and a home invader that desires to keep his arms and face intact would be better served targeting another home.
All this arguing about guns is just getting stupid.
People post ridiculous shit on Facebook about how sad that USA lives in fear and needs guns.
I'll be safe and sleep at night with my duel purpose pet and recreational firearms, as I know they're serving a purpose of duality.
I do not live in fear. I live prepared.
