Because people don't think the government should always prioritize protection over freedom, nor do people think the government should always prioritize freedom

Because people don't think the government should always prioritize protection over freedom, nor do people think the government should always prioritize freedom over protection. It's like asking, if people are okay with the government restricting the sale of bombs to private citizens, why aren't they okay with restricting steak knives? They're also dangerous weapons. People judge the cost and benefit of each situation.