I’ve never heard it used as an insult, more as a very mild expletive.
I thought the same. I assumed it was just people censoring themselves when they wanted to say son of a bitch in front a child, or anyone else who it’s taboo to swear in front of.
Something about taking prostitutes on voyages across the sea in the olden days. You’d romance her under the cannons and the bastard child would be a “son of a gun”. I don’t remember where I learned this so feel free to correct me if I’m wrong.
Edit: I looked it up and got some details wrong, but pretty close
I said “Maaaaan… My dad’s not a firearm!” And I threw it on the ground!
It’s just a softened version of “son of a bitch” but I agree with others, never heard of it as an insult
If you are American, no. If you are from a civilised country, yes.
You got us, you son of a gun!
I have never heard it used as an insult.
First I heard of that.
It’s not?
