IMHO, the first and most basic purpose of the right is assure that civilians are afforded the ability to defend themselves. This is announced in the Constitutions of several states back to the 18th century. Our federal Constitution mentions the militia only because the federal government had nexus to regulating interstate activity not the day to day conduct of individuals. At the time of the founding the people were skeptical of a big country with a big government far removed from them as individuals. They trusted the state they lived in and knew.
As far as me and my home, I have to say my landscaping could certainly benefit from a few claymores and some foo gas but I try to be a good neighbor. 
Heller v DC established that banning handguns is unconstitutional.
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