I didn't read the whole thread but I think the problem is that people like to put everyone into a single bucket. Not all gun owners are crazy. Not all gun owners are responsible. Not all gun owners are sane. Not all gun owners are going to kill people.
Even in my own social circle there is an amazing difference.
Exhibit A: Friend is an avid hunter. Owns more guns than anyone else I know...probably combined. Also has a sidearm for personal protection. He keeps his guns and ammunition is a gun safe. Would never ever pull his weapon except in defense of his life or family. Would attempt to dissuade and wound rather than kill if threatened and had the ability to choose. Very responsible gun owner who is aware of the ramifications of taking another life and doesn't want that on his conscience.
Exhibit B: Friend noted that someone had their Romney/Ryan sign stolen off their lawn. She said she would shoot that person. When pressed and questioned about it she felt fully justified to shoot anyone who came onto her property uninvited or who stole anything of hers, even if it was low value, and even if it did not represent a threat to her. She did not think that there was any problem taking another person's life over a $2 sign.
These are two different people's attitudes towards guns. One is clearly a responsible, mature gun owner. The other...well...I'll leave it up to interpretation, but suffice it to say that is part of the bad rap some gun owners get.