That good ol’ second amendment
I had a personal first yesterday: firing a handgun. Brandon and I went to the local shooting range, handed over some cash and a driver’s license, and took care of 100 rounds and 4 targets. I am delighted by how easy it was to get a gun at the range–significantly less rigor than renting a DVD. While firing the gun, I also took time to mentally thank our founding fathers who drafted the all-important Second Amendment.
It is my firm belief that we would be better of if every man, woman, and [appropriately-aged] child knew how to safely handle a firearm. I sickens me whenever I read about a child killing himself or his friend by playing with a gun. Without exception, a gun belongs in a safe, with a trigger lock, and without any rounds in the chamber. Likewise, any gun is handled as though it is loaded. If more people were actually educated about firearms, I would hope that gun accidents would greatly diminish.
Unlike many of my gun-loving compatriots, I don’t want every Tom, Dick, and Harry to be allowed to carry their handgun around in public. Knowing how to use a gun and knowing when to use a gun are two very different skill sets. I would hate to live in a world where every purse-nabbing punk is liable to be gunned down. (i.e. the state of Florida).
This anti-conceal & carry exception is in keeping with the Framers’ intent. The Second Amendment provides the right to arm ourselves–to protect our rights against government intrusion. We are not granted the right to assume the role of judge, jury, and executioner for every dead-beat criminal on the street.
Takeaway: Do yourself a favor, go down to the local range, and learn to use a gun.
Filed under Uncategorized : Comments (0) : Nov 12th, 2006 by tadfad
