The stories just keep coming. For some it's too late and for others-- just the threat is enough.

"Well recently right before Christmas my house was entered into and I had lost a few items. But also too it seems like in Parkersburg there has been a high amount of crime in my type of work and I would feel safer being able to carry a gun, says student taking concealed weapons course, Dee Prince.

A local resident says recent break-ins on her street have opened her eyes.

"I spend a lot of time alone in my house with having a disability now, MS, so my physicality is not as sharp as it use to be and so it would be a lot easier probably for someone you know, harm me, or I may not be able to protect myself," explains a student in the concealed weapons course, Terri Locy.

Many have resorted to making their self defense a personal responsibility.
They say it's a choice not to be a victim.

"They get a complete training and we go through every scenario that might occur with them I train them to teach when they go out to the range and practice, to practice in a defensive mode," says co-owner of f High Caliber Guns and Ammo, Doug Sears.

Sears says they offer different firearm and self defense classes.

They explain it's being prepared in case the time calls for it.

"We come with a proactive thought process along with our gun shop, to be sure that we're assuring that the community is getting everything they need from us as far as gun handling and gun safety," says co-owner Stacy Sears.

And whether it's a hobby or about protecting yourself-- it's about being informed.

"Shooting is a sport for us, and I mean that's how it began but we want to know that we are capable if it came down to that. There's a difference between gun owners and responsible gun owners. Right," explain two who plan to take the concealed weapons course, Jerry and Jona Cooper.

And if that worst case scenario does occur...
"We always need to be prepared. We don't want to cause anybody any physical harm but we must protect ourselves, and we must save our own lives and the lives of our families."

Those wanting to participate do not have to own a firearm.

For more info visit: http://www.hicalguns.com

Concealment Classes- Held Every Saturday

Ladies Handgun Classes Offered Fridays- Late afternoon

(both the concealment class and ladies handgun are $99 together)

Taser Classes

Victim Awareness Classes
6 pm on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Must Pre-register.
May hold your own classes (must have at least 3 people)
$20 per person.

For more information call: 304-485-4566 Ask For Stacy Sears.