(No insult inferred
)
I suppose I'm small-L on a some things one being guns. I look at gun laws being the answer to 'How can the government help a regular person to do something they think is right?'
Here's my example: Suppose Phil and Mary have a gun shop. They sell a variety of guns from revolvers to ARs to hunting guns. One day a guy shows up at the counter and asks to see their smallest pistol in .22 cal. They show a Ruger priced at $400. Mary gets the ATF forms while Phil gets a box .22 and the manufacturer's packing for the Ruger. Once the customer completes the 4473 and presents ID, Phil tells him that it's against the law for him to sell a gun to a Florida resident at his shop in New York. The customer looks upset but thanks Phil and leaves the store. Mary asks, "Why did you look so nervous telling that guy you couldn't sell him the Ruger?" Phil says, "Because I had an idea why he wanted the gun when I saw his name." Phil hands her the 4473 with the name Joseph Merlino.
Without a law to fall back on, what does Phil say to Skinny Joey about not wanting to sell him a gun that may be used in a mob hit?
IMO, ideologically, every law on the books represents a loss of liberty for each person subject to the law. I believe it's a good thing to refuse to sell weapons to convicted criminals that have a violent history.
The fact is collecting, hunting, target shooting and self-defense are all legal activities. Many folks don't like guns and maybe they have good reasons. I accept the idea that a property owner can dictate the weapons policy for his place of business or residence.
I'm sure there are some folks who would tell Mr Merlino, "
Look, I can't sell you this gun on the books, but I get another delivery the day after tomorrow. Another gun of similar model may be "lost" or "never shipped". The price is $1200."
Accepting reality allows the law to focus on empowering the individual rather than inspiring each of us to accept being treated as children who need permission.
Fix the registry... Yeah, I don't see that going anywhere either. Both sides in the discussion need to accept the nature of politics being compromise.
Have a nice weekend/holiday.