The word "weapon"

[lgm118icbm]

I don't like how much the word "weapon" gets thrown around. To me, the word has an operational definition, meaning that an implement should only be defined as a weapon if it is used or (maybe) intended to be used principally in offense / defense.

A pistol or rifle can be used as a weapon but a spoon can be used as a weapon too and that doesn't mean that every spoon is a weapon. I typically use mine to eat Cheerios.

I suppose it is similar to the "assault rifle" term that gets thrown around. I always cringe when people ask me how many "weapons" I brought to the range or how many "weapons" I own. I tell them none. I have rifles, shotguns and pistols.

And I hope I never, ever have to use any of them as a "weapon".

[LOW2000]

We specifically do not refer to anything in NRA courses as a weapon. It is always "the pistol", "this glock", "that revolver", etc.

[AE102]

I agree, I just call them firearms.

[mkane]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

[devilinblack]

I blame the Army for my habit of calling all firearms weapons, but if I'm talking to a non-shooter I do find myself trying to use "rifle" or "pistol" instead.

[DVSmith]

We specifically do not refer to anything in NRA courses as a weapon. It is always "the pistol", "this glock", "that revolver", etc.

Correct, and I like the concept. Even in everyday conversation I use the term firearm generically and pistol, rifle, make, model etc. when specificity is appropriate. Rarely do I use "weapon."

[SilverTauron]

I don't like how much the word "weapon" gets thrown around. To me, the word has an operational definition, meaning that an implement should only be defined as a weapon if it is used or (maybe) intended to be used principally in offense / defense.

[Sakiri]

You want to know what an "assault weapon" is?

It's that thing in my hands that I'm smashing someone's face in at any given time when attacked.

I'm using something as a weapon and I'm assaulting them with said weapon. This can apply to any object that can be hurled, stabbed with, used as a blunt weapon,, my fists...etc.

So when are we going to have to register our fists as deadly "assault weapons"?

And yes, I typically use "firearm" and "gun" when referring to them generically. Pistol, rifle and shotgun when being more specific, and specific models when warranted. "Weapon" is relegated to the bottom of the barrel when I'm referring to combat situations of any type. "Well what kind of weapon was used?" if I'm asking my roommate about a war story he read about or whatever.

The standard "assault weapon" BS irritates me.

[IrishJoe3]

I blame the Army for my habit of calling all firearms weapons,

Maybe thats my problem. Its weapon for me.

[BKinzey]

I agree, there are many firearms whose main purpose does not include to be used as a weapon.

Fighting a losing battle though.

[rolo]

I don't have a problem with firearms defined as weapons. I have a problem with weapons being defined as something to be feared or avoided.

That which we would call a rose, by any other name would smell just as sweet.

[dieselpower]

I don't like how much the word "weapon" gets thrown around. To me, the word has an operational definition, meaning that an implement should only be defined as a weapon if it is used or (maybe) intended to be used principally in offense / defense.

A pistol or rifle can be used as a weapon but a spoon can be used as a weapon too and that doesn't mean that every spoon is a weapon. I typically use mine to eat Cheerios.

I suppose it is similar to the "assault rifle" term that gets thrown around. I always cringe when people ask me how many "weapons" I brought to the range or how many "weapons" I own. I tell them none. I have rifles, shotguns and pistols.

And I hope I never, ever have to use any of them as a "weapon".

Both my firearms are weapons. Their primary use is to inflict wounds great enough to end life.... that is what a weapon is. Yes I shoot paper with them, but that is to make sure when I do intend to properly use the weapon, I do so with efficient skill.

You are upset with "other" people using the terminology properly because its not YOUR definition of what YOUR firearms are.

BUT

I am sorry to inform you of this, but Firearms are in fact weapons...period. The primary use of a firearm is to inflict wounds. Just because you do not do that or you have no intention of doing that doesn't change what it is.

another things many people don't understand....
The Second Amendment was written to allow free man to have WEAPONS (called "Arms" as a general term of any damage inflicting tool) to defend themselves...not to hunt, not to collect..not to shoot paper and win awards... The 2A was written to make sure you have the ability to KILL person trying to kill you.

[mkane]

And some wonder why most shouldn't own a firearm.

[Hopalong]

That's the problem with the English language

Too many words

Therefore, too much parsing of words, wiggle room definitions, and spin

I'm afraid we're stuck with it

[AmoAgave]

I blame the Army for my habit of calling all firearms weapons, but if I'm talking to a non-shooter I do find myself trying to use "rifle" or "pistol" instead.

Yup. Exactly my case. Been out for 20 years and still use weapon, rifle or pistol. A 'gun' was only used for the main gun on my tank.