Sorry. I just couldn't avoid the rathole argument of bear vs unloaded gun.Jusme wrote:Soccerdad1995 wrote:It really depends on the type of bear and also any situational factors (mamma with cubs nearby, etc). If I had to make a blanket statement, I'd go with the gun that is believed to be unloaded being less dangerous than a random bear 10-15 feet away.stroo wrote:I think getting within 10-15 feet of a bear may actually be more dangerous than pointing his gun although it is a close call. Bears can move really fast and can be extremely dangerous. I had a friend who was a ranger at Yellowstone. He told lots of stories about people doing really dangerous things with bison, moose and bears. They are not petting animals but it is amazing how many people think that is fine.
That said, pointing the gun as he did is totally unacceptable particularly if he doesn't realize that what he did is dangerous.
Of course, it is best to avoid either risk if possible.....
I think that was sort of the point of the OP. There were several instances, of risky behavior detailed in the post, lack of wearing seat belts, improperly holding a baby, etc. I don't know if the FIL is just trying to recapture some of the thrills, he feels may be missing in his life, or if it could be a medical/psychological issue. JMHO
A few of the things listed I might chalk up to a generational difference. I know that my father liked to toss my little brothers us up in the air and then catch them when they were babies. I had to ask him politely to please not do that with my kids after the first time he tossed my baby. He mumbled something about "overprotective parents" but respected my wishes on the subject. I think the bit about not mandating that adults wear seatbelts is in a similar category.
But getting within spitting distance of a wild animal and being careless with guns? Yeah, no excuses there.