To paraphrase the proposed Constitution of the Atlantic Republic (publication forthcoming, along with a book outlining the policies and theories of Northern secession, later this year):

"Everyone has the right to keep and bear arms for self-defense, for the defense of family and property, for the defense of the community, and for the taking of game; and while this right shall not be abridged, so too shall anyone asserting it be responsible for its abuse."

Put another way, punching up (i.e., committing violence against those higher than you on the power ladder) is always justified. Punching down (i.e., using a superior position on the power ladder to inflict violence) is never justified.