Not to nit pick, but I didn't say shoot because you can, I said realize that if you are not willing to take a life then don't pretend to have the weapon for self defense. Perhaps this is my personal training coming back to play..

1. Never pull a gun on anyone
2. If you have to pull a gun on someone, use it
3. If you're going to use a gun, make sure you kill what your shooting at

And thanks Jess.. I did neglect to think about the sport specific weapons, while the majority will still do exactly what they are based on (taking a life) most are geared to specific tasks other than killing.