First, there are many non-lethal (and perfectly legal) methods of self-defense against rapists—mace, pepper spray, electrical stun devices, extreme noisemakers, etc. But there ARE laws in many states permitting firearm possession in the situations the author seems to be worried about. And bottom line: who do you think it was who pushed for more sex crime laws, more special victims units, more awareness about acquaintance rape? Not conservatives, for the most part.