To some I'm a frightening object, both useful in trained hands as well as dangerous when handled by people with little knowledge. I strike fear into the minds of many, and often a cold sweat develops when uneducated folks see me—much less handle me.
My barrel can be of different lengths and the long, narrow portion is measured in terms of ""gauge."" I am more lethal, as well as effective, when loaded. I can easily pierce body parts and I can shoot foreign objects into folks.
Usually this is purposeful, but sometimes bad folks misuse me. My use is regulated and controlled. You can't just walk in and buy one from the retailer without showing identification and being over 21. I save lives and do so daily, but my misuse can lead to injury and death. I am small enough to be concealed yet I can generate needless fear and paranoia.
Folks are divided as to whether I should be more available or more restricted. Proper training is essential and I, as an inanimate, soulless object, in no way control how I am used. Good people use me for numerous benefits, but criminals prefer to use me outside of the law. While not everyone likes me, I am only as good or bad as the person controlling my use.
What am I? I'm an insulin syringe. Unlike firearms, few actually want to ban my use out of nothing more than ignorant fear, clueless paranoia, empty logic and the perverse desire to inappropriately control other law-abiding citizens' lives.
Kyle Borgardt
UW-Madison senior
Marketing and history
