gavra:
In earlier comments I explained that though I do NOT “have a loaded gun in my night table”, I DO have an UNloaded gun and (seperately) a mag of ammo, both safely out of sight, but both where I can grab them and load my weapon in less than 60 seconds from my hearing the sound of a possible break-in.
As far as giving them what they want…
That’s fine IF all they want is your money or jewelry,
BUT, – sometimes they want your wife or your daughter (ha’mayveen yaveen) and your life/lives.
THAT is why I’m such a strong believer in…
Better to have it and never need it
Than need it and not have it.
THAT is why I try to urge others
to HAVE firearms (and b’ezrat HaSh-m, NEVER need to use them.)