The issues of self defense and guns are really separate in my opinion.  For example, you're seeing people standing up for helpless strangers and being arrested for doing so in liberal run cities.  That is clearly wrong, but in my opinion completely separate from owning guns.  Should people be able to assault those who put them in a position where they feel they need to defend themselves, I believe so.  Should people also be able to own guns?  I think so.  Both are major issues and you're right to question them. 

My take is this...  If someone hits you first, you should have the right to beat them unconscious.  I also think gun ownership is important, otherwise someone might not be aware if they break into a home they could be murdered.  Take away guns and soon our government will be like Canada, telling people to leave their doors unlocked so criminals don't have to break in where they could hurt the homeowner.