The most curious fact about WWII is that the Germans were able to take as much territory as they did. In 1940, the English tanks were superior. The allies had more men and material. The Germans used Blitzkrieg because they didn't have the resources to wage prolonged war. It was far more about morale than might.
But once the Allies lost France, and all of the equipment, it took years to re-arm to the point for an invasion of Europe.
But, to your point, a homeowner who is robbed and has a gun and defends himself may or may not be viewed appropriately. One who is attacked, then purchases a gun and exacts revenge is considered a vigilante, worse than the criminal.
But one who buys a gun, installs an alarm system, posts said information, and is never robbed, is considered a paranoid nut job.
