Sorry, did not see this is an old post.
First let me say I agree with the terminology ChasingHawk stated. It is a generic term for three breeds. They do get a bum rap. I also agree with everything ShadowDancer said.
However, having managed the county animal shelter for almost 3 years, pits were one of the breeds we were not allowed to adopt out. In our county, they were bred for security of the drug houses and other illegal endeavors. So, most that we saw and handled, were not the kind of dogs we would want to live next to. One employee had three pits, were family pets, and one day one turned on her. They also would go out during the day and kill any critter they came across. Normally for any critter, I would agree in how it is raised, but have my judgement about pits.
They were notorious for having to use the catch pole on because of their aggrssiveness and unwillingness to allow us to even clean their cages. Thankfully, no one in our shelter was ever injured by one. Animal control had his share of problems in the field, tho. That's a whole 'nuther story.
However, many of them I made friends with, held and loved, but they did not return the favor so to speak. Something about them. To be honest, they are the only 'breed' I respected enough to not turn my back on and I can honestly say I do not trust them but do feel sorry for them.
Many home insurance companies will not insure a home if they know a pit lives there and will cancel your policy if they find out. Many counties don't allow them either.
Good luck.