Column

My first recommendation for anyone is to do some research. People who are against guns and gun ownership often quote “facts” and “statistics” that stretch the truth, hide the truth or ignore the truth altogether.

In an interview with CNN, Rep. Richmond said “we have cities that are banning plastic straws, and we can’t ban assault weapons? That just doesn’t make sense to me.”

It is the oldest mistake in Congress. “We must do something!” It’s a classic error of logic known as appelare desperadi, the appeal to desperation.

When I have the opportunity to turn an antique firearm in my hands, one concept that jumps out at me harder and faster than others is firearm sighting systems and their development through the years.

In light of recent riots and other mass violence, many people want to know when displaying or using a firearm is legal when faced with a mob.

News outlets that feature and name mass murderers border on criminality. They don’t advance news — they encourage copycats.

With this in mind, I present to you the Poor Improvised Self-Defense Weapon Hall of Shame. These are the “weapons” I see the most often in homes of acquaintances who have convinced themselves that as long as they can get to their trusty chain saw, all will be good in the event of a home invasion.

Or would it? When you read about the trials and tribulations following a self-defense shooting, it makes your blood run cold. It’s not fair.

It is rare to see a study published that echoes our message: enforce existing gun laws. Prosecute criminals.