I’ve received much comment from readers about my columns over the year, some complimentary, some critical. Never have I received as much feedback as I did on my recent column, “The Obama Factor,” in which I observed that ammunition supplies are in short supply everywhere. I’ve had folks reporting empty ammo shelves in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Nevada and Arizona, just for starters.

I believe, in large part, the shortage is because ordinary people are truly scared for the safety of their families. People are afraid the government can’t protect us and hinder us from protecting ourselves. I was talking to a city councilman the other day who has never owned a gun but who has now decided to get one for home defense.

With the recession in full force and governments everywhere cutting budgets, it looks like public safety may be up to the individual, because the government can’t or won’t do it.

Here in California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is talking about laying off prison guards and releasing 35,000 felons into society to save money. He’s also considering “borrowing” billions from cities and counties to balance the state budget, leaving local governments to cut public safety as well. The situation is similar across the nation.

Folks, we’re going to have to protect ourselves.

For years, an in-law was an advocate of gun control and believed guns should be outlawed. About 5 a.m. one morning, Jim was in his driveway preparing to leave for an early flight when he came face to face with two characters who just finished burglarizing a neighbor’s house. A few hours later, he was on the phone asking me what kind of gun I’d suggest for home defense. I was barely able to resist the temptation to say, “I told you so,” but concentrated instead on giving him the best answer I could.

I had difficulty trying to decide what would be the best gun to recommend. Finally, it dawned on me the best weapon for self-defense logically would vary depending upon the background and needs of the user.

Your choice of weapon should relate to your familiarity with guns. If you’re a military veteran, you might feel comfortable with a .45 automatic pistol, whereas if you’re a regular duck or pheasant hunter, you’d probably feel right at home with your scatter-gun. If, however, you’ve never owned a gun and are terrified of them, you might best served by purchasing a good burglar alarm.

There is a clear choice for a novice. If your family is threatened, there is no more effective weapon at close range than a pump-action shotgun.

Perhaps the best feature of all is the psychological effect produced by the sound of a shell being jacked into a pump shotgun. The sound alone could save your life — it’s an unmistakable sound that will raise the hair on the back of your neck and make you want to get far away as quickly as possible.

What if you work or have to travel through an unsafe area and want to carry a gun for defense? My brother once worked at night in the rail yards of a large city and was regularly in danger of assault. In a situation like that, a handgun clearly is the most logical choice, simply because it’s easier to carry.

Once again, temperament and background come into play. Some are comfortable with a big-caliber handgun like a .45 or a .357 magnum, while others would be best with a small .22 automatic that can fit easily into a purse or pocket.

It’s my opinion the .25-caliber automatic probably is the most useless cartridge in the world. I would never recommend that anyone get a .25 auto for any reason.

Bear in mind if you’re going to carry a gun, you must obtain a concealed-weapon permit. Contact your local police chief if you live within the city limits, or San Joaquin County Sheriff Steve Moore if you live in the unincorporated county.

It’s imperative you take the time to become familiar with a gun. Go to a range and thoroughly acquaint yourself with your weapon. Fire several boxes of shells until you’re completely comfortable with it. For assistance, consult a qualified firearms instructor.

In Ripon, we’re fortunate to have a first-class indoor range and gun shop with dedicated professionals at The Barnwood Arms on Main Street. In other areas, contact your local gun shop or the National Rifle Association at 800-672-3888.

Until next week, Tight Lines.

• To comment on this week’s Tight Lines, forward messages to Sports Editor Ike Dodson at 239-6351, ext. 306, or e-mail ike@sunpost.net.