As soon as the pieces got put together and they realized they were dealing with a serial killer, the local Sheriff did a press conference. He made a special point to remind people in the community that "they have a right to protect themselves". It was all he could do not to actually wink and nod and say "hint, hint"...... but he made it perfectly clear what he was getting at.
I commend him for being straight forward and real about the danger. Most public officials now days would steer clear of such a statement, but it was an important reminder that the danger was very real and that people needed to make sure they were prepared if that lunatic decided to come after them.
It just goes to show you the differences in mindsets. Even in the situation where an actual serial killer is on the loose in the community, Sawyer does not think it is necessary to allow the sheep a means to protect themselves..... meanwhile in Small Town USA, real Americans are recognizing that the threat level has elevated and are making sure that they have at the ready a tool that will level the odds if evil decides to come after them or their family.