Gun Ownership for All (err, Most) Americans

Gun ownership is one of the most controversial topics in America. A lightning rod issue, as they say.  In fact, one ‘side’ refers to the debate as Gun Rights, while those with the opposing view talk about Gun Control…just our starting point language screams conflict and lack of compromise.

Most gun advocates argue that the Constitution provides them the undeniable right to bear arms. That guns are an important part of our history and our culture. And the government has no right to limit one’s primary means of protecting their families, their property and themselves.  All very reasonable points.

Many of those supporting stricter gun control point to the danger that guns present to the community at large. And that there should be stricter regulation over who can purchase a gun, the types of guns to be made available, and where folks can carry their guns.  They’ll tell you the Constitution did not mean ordinary citizens could own military grade semi-automatic or automatic weapons, particularly when combined with lax regulation and control.  I respect this perspective as well.

As is the case with most debates…both parties are right. In my opinion, only an extremist would argue that guns should be banned. The same can be said for those that argue any person residing in the US should have the right to own any gun they choose, without oversight or safety measures in place.

As you can tell, I personally find it unreasonable to eliminate safe and responsible gun ownership. I also do not put much credence into the argument that fully anonymous gun ownership is important because the government will ‘come take my guns when it imposes martial law’. I’m happy to debate either point, but I will set aside each of those relatively extreme views for now.

Here’s my high-level-and-not-fully-baked proposal for a balanced approach to gun ownership.

• Gun ownership requires that one is in good standing with the law, and deemed to be of sound mind.
• Gun ownership requires a license.
• Guns may only be sold and bought through a licensed, regulated dealer.
• Let’s have two classes of weapons and licenses: Class 1 and Class 2.
  • Class 1 is your standard handgun, rifle, etc. Ownership is based on a relatively simple personal licensing and weapon registration processes.
  • Class 2 are your more advanced semi-automatic weapons. Ownership is predicated on a more advanced licensing and registration processes, including a deeper, personal background check.
• Those that obtain a Class 2 gun license will be granted expanded concealed carry rights in states that allow it, i.e. in or near locations that are currently barred. Potentially, a Class 2 gun license means one is not required to register their weapons.
• While there are federal guidelines governing gun ownership, states still handle the details as best serves their citizens.

In order to craft a solution that works for all (most) Americans, you need to open-mindedly consider the both (all) sides of the issue. Most Americans support safe gun ownership, particularly if regulations help keep guns away from criminals, terrorists and the mentally unstable. Many Americans would like expanded rights to own certain types of “more robust” guns, as well as broader rights to carry concealed weapons. And most citizens are not seriously concerned about the government knowing they bought and own a gun.

Again, the above is not the detailed answer to managing gun ownership…its an exercise in considering all sides of a matter and working towards a compromise that will satisfy most reasonable folks.  In a real democracy, the good solutions work for MOST (if not ALL) Americans