Last night I had a chance to watch “Rise of the AR-15” on
CNBC. It outlined the history of the
modern sporting rifle and continued on with the devastation it has caused in
various mass shootings. The design
originated 50 years ago for light infantry use.
Its civilian success is something nobody predicted with 4,000,000 sold
in the United States. The devastation
could be predicted as the ballistics of the round results in a rotating motion
on impact which destroys bone and tissue.
This rotation is lethal if it hits a vital organ and often results in
amputation if it hits a limb. It has a
very aggressive look, is easy to operate and accurate. These features make it popular for sportsman.
The recent surge in highlighting the “well regulated” aspect
of the second amendment has made this firearm very popular of late. AR-15 and accessories account for 80% of
sales for some shops. When people think
they may not be able to get something in the future they tend to stock up. Unlike Twinkies, stock piles of AR-15 and
ammunition are more dangerous if not stored properly and kept out of the hands
of felons, the mentally unstable, violent individuals and children.
Manufacturers are promoting the firearm as a military grade
weapon. This marketing has been very
successful. Personally, if I heard that
the US Navy Seal teams use a particular pen, watch, or any other accoutrement,
that item is automatically higher on my wish list. The same way beer manufacturers promote
scantily clad women and auto manufacturers show their cars on a closed course,
firearms manufacturers present their wares in the light most likely to sell.
The industry not only is supported by sales, but also
training and shooting clubs. It felt
like an adventure camp for adults where they could go out with like minded
individuals and be trained to use their new toy. This is nothing new. There are professionally run driving schools
on race tracks and sports camps galore for children and adults.
“Preppers” or survivalists were also given brief
mention. These individuals are preparing
for the downfall of society and have food, medical supplies and firearms on
hand for the coming end of the world scenario.
One reason firearm sales remain brisk is the fear (rational or irrational)
that the proper authorities cannot ensure the safety of a person or their
family.
The rise of gun violence was given substantially less attention
by the program. Anybody with a
conscience should be making efforts to reduce violence in the world. Gun violence is no exception. There are federal laws against drugs such as cocaine
and heroin. There were federal laws
against alcohol consumption. Cigarette
taxes have been increasing steadily to provide funding to help people quit. Trans fats have been discontinued by most restaurant chains. Even the right to free speech is curtailed if
one incites a riot. It is time for an
effort to reduce the consumption of firearms and regulate ownership.
Unfortunately democracy in America and a representative
government are on the decline. Campaign
finance ensures that lobbies have the strongest voice in our government. Officials who continue to represent their
contributors over their constituents will continue ensure that the legislation
does not meet the needs of the majority of citizens.
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