Edinboro University, PA Shooting

[Feral Child]

29. OK, I really hope you were being sarcastic.

That's the exact scenario that some gun enthusiasts fantasize about.

The reality of this situation is so complex that no reasonable course of action is logistically possible, even in the most unlikely possibility that it would be politically acceptable.

Here are some possible tactics that might get traction:

*Limitation of future firearms sales, requiring much stiffer criteria for purchase.

*A "luxury" type tax for any firearm purchase.

*Establishing national requirements for concealed-carry permits, specifically demonstrating a reasonable need to carry.

*Heavy penalties for any firearm related violations, including mandatory jail-time. That would include carrying a firearm without a permit and an aggravation clause for any crimes committed whilst armed. I think it would be best for all such crimes to be elevated to federal charges.

*A requirement for every purchase to be channeled through a licensed dealer, including the person-to-person sale of a used arm.



Over time, if rigorously enforced, these laws would eliminate the problem through attrition. Over a long period, that is, there is absolutely no workable instant or even quick solution.

Of course, room would have to be made for the incarceration of offenders, but that would be easy if cannabis was decrimmed.

In actuality, my recommendations would solve the logistic problems, but they wouldn't be at all acceptable under present political circumstances. I don't think we'll see any positive changes until open-carry and High Noon street-fights involving collateral damages to the elite become common, and they're so protected the circumstances aren't likely to develop.

My next suggestion is more likely to be embraced: bring back the dueling laws. I'm not being flippant, I think that allowing duels, under very exacting qualifications for safety for those not involved, will curb a lot of the enthusiasm for gunners. It would be necessary to allow open-carry and disallow any concealed weapon permits except for law-enforcement personnel.

Faced with the possibility of actually having to use their guns under equal conditions will take a bunch of the brass out of those that think walking around armed is a good idea.

CAVEAT: I've taken a hefty dose of prescribed medication and might deny responsibility of this post later.