I am not Canadian either but I must spout off on this one:

In the Western US there are many cases of bears, mountain lions, lynxes, deer, etc. invading people's yards. I am quite sure that western Canada is no different than Oregon or Washington in this regard, hell even here in Kansas we had a deer stomp through our garden at night.
If my kids, dog, cat etc. are being attacked by a dangerous animal I prefer having an AK-47 or a Tommy Gun over a sharp stick.

And as far as crime is concerned, maybe in the Eastern cities the cops can come fast enough to help, but in more isolated Western communities you are better off relying on Smith & Wesson for your protection.

*note: this is the opinion of one who considers himself a moderate DEMOCRAT, not a conservative gun nut.
(actually I'm a gun nut who really doesn't care much for either party)