Firearms Future & New Enthusiasts

[Phil3]

Over the last year, I have gotten back into firearms, and try to perk the interest of others as well. Occasionally, I run into an issue that I have to admit, nags at me as well. That is, is there any point in investing in a hobby which to various degrees, is in danger of being legislated to death? Limitations on what one can buy, how often, ammo taxes, licensing, etc., can all get worse, which turns some away. I even wonder myself if my own on-going investment is wise given that government is able, and wants to all but exterminate firearms. Believe me, I fight in every way I can, but the current environment is pretty hostile. Anyone here thought similarly and did it modify your firearm hobby?

- Phil

[JeffM]

The more people who become interested in firearms, the more people there will be to vote for pro-gun candidates to push back bad legislation.

[rabagley]

I have had many of the same thoughts, but here are two thoughts that I have on that issue:

First:

By buying a gun, becoming familiar with a gun, taking others to the range and helping them become familiar with guns, you reduce the odds of private gun ownership being legislated away. You become another voice in favor of keeping private gun ownership legal and you help spread the meme. Also, you directly help part of the specific language in Heller, which essentially states (my personal interpretation, anyway) that prohibiting guns in common use is unconstitutional.

So make more kinds of guns common! Get an AR and an AK and enjoy both of them and when anyone says, "There's no legitimate purpose for an ..." you can speak up and say, but I use mine for X, Y, and Z, all of which are completely legitimate.

Second:

It's better to have a gun and not need it than need a gun and not have it.

That's just as true for the next 24 hours as the next 50 years, so I'll buy the gun, even if the anti's try to take it away tomorrow. Besides, any seizure of firearms will take years to go through the courts, so I'm sure to have the gun for more than 24 hours, even in the worst case outcome.

[SDgarrick]

As far as I see it, this culture will always be in danger of being legistlated away. This is why it is so important that we members of this culture realize that we also are ambassadors of it. In addition to countering FUD and other antigun propaganda it is important to maintain our way of life, regardless of tomorrows. When we begin limiting what guns or ammo we own based on fear of future laws, then the Anti's have won.

Stepping off soapbox now.

[PatriotnMore]

I would also add, stop letting the 2A issue be treated and regulated like an issue of privilege, such as driving. This is a right, let's not forget the real issue, nor let them forget it.

[jrau13]

The more people who become interested in firearms, the more people there will be to vote for pro-gun candidates to push back bad legislation.

Simple and to the point

[Turbinator]

We should not let the danger of the anti legislation stop us from growing our ranks, our influence, and our support of freedom.

Turby