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.

   Regarding a firearm's stopping power, in nearly every situation, a .38 caliber is adequate enough to stop an assailant. Using a higher caliber is overkill since it poses a risk to the surrounding area (may go through walls endangering others). Because of this, anything greater than a .38 caliber should become illegal for public use. Exceptions will be made if there is a need for such as with a park ranger requiring a .50 caliber against bear attacks.

   The second factor to consider 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 than this since the additional firepower isn't needed. A greater factor in protecting oneself would be with proficiency in the firearm itself, rather than the number of rounds that may be available.

   To ensure compliance, only revolver-style weapons will be permitted rather than semi-automatics that use magazines and are clip-loaded. Only law enforcement personnel may carry other types of firearms than a six-round revolver in order to fulfill their duties to the community.

   The third factor to consider is the distance that may be necessary to protect against from harm. On average, crimes typically occur within a ten-meter (30 foot) distance. Since this is within range of a pistol, long firearms like military-style assault rifles should be banned since they are not necessary for such short distances.

   Some may say that adopting the above changes will 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 is overkill and places the public at risk. Again, training and proficiency in the use of the firearm is a greater factor in protecting oneself from harm than the type of firearm itself.

   For hunting purposes, high-powered rifles should be evaluated 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 for birds). Bolt-action, pump-action, and semi-automatic versions of hunting rifles should be banned since they may be modified and pose a risk to the general public.

   After considering these arguments, advocates for gun control should be satisfied since the type of firearm is restricted for public safety and gun enthusiasts should be satisfied in that they will be able to use a firearm that is capable of self-defense (or hunt game).

   In America, approximately 30% of the adult population owns a firearm which is a minority in a pure democracy that will no longer be influenced by special interest groups like the NRA. So, when the country votes on the matter as a pure democracy, hopefully, the above will justify gun ownership while also establishing effective gun control policy for the nation.