Gun Control

Solution

   Any discussion on gun control should consist of the following regarding self-defense: a firearm's stopping power, the number of adversaries to defend against, and the distance of a typical confrontation.

   Pertaining to a firearm's stopping power, in nearly every situation a .38 caliber should be adequate enough to stop an assailant. Using a higher caliber would be overkill since it poses a risk to the surrounding area (may go through residential walls). Since using higher calibers are not truly necessary, anything greater than a .38 caliber should be illegal. Exceptions should be allowed if there is an actual need for such, as with a park ranger requiring a .50 caliber against bear attacks.

   The second point to consider for self-defense is the number of adversaries to defend against. On average, crimes are typically committed with less than six adversaries in a confrontation. Because of this, it is unnecessary for firearms to provide a greater number of rounds (thru extended clips or otherwise) since the additional firepower isn't needed. A greater factor in successfully resolving an encounter is proficiency in the firearm itself, rather than the number of rounds that may be available.

   To ensure compliance, only revolver-style weapons should be permitted to the public rather than semi-automatic that uses magazines and are clip-loaded (may be modified). Law enforcement personnel may be allowed to carry other types of firearms than a six-round revolver if desired.

   The third point to consider for self-defense is the distance that is necessary to protect oneself from harm. On average, crimes typically occur within a ten-meter (30 feet) distance. Since this is within range of a pistol, long firearms (like military-style assault rifles) should be banned since they are unnecessary for self-defense.

   After reviewing these points, some would say that adopting the above changes would result in a very restrictive gun control policy. However, a person only really needs a six-round .38 caliber revolver for self-defense. Anything else would be overkill and places others at risk. Again, training and proficiency in the use of the firearm is a greater factor in protecting oneself than the type of firearm itself.

   For hunting purposes, high-powered rifles should be reevaluated in order to prevent their possible use in criminal activities. Since hunting typically requires only a single round to bring down game (two for birds), all hunting rifles should be restricted to being of the breech-loaded, single-shot variety (double-barrel shotguns for birds). Bolt-action, pump-action, and semi-automatic versions of firearms should be illegal since they pose a risk to the general public.

   After considering the above arguments, advocates for gun control should be satisfied with the proposed changes since the type of firearm would be restricted for public safety, while gun enthusiasts should be satisfied in that they will be able to use a firearm that is capable of adequately defending themselves (or hunt game).