Exploring the controversy surrounding banning assault weapons. Discussing the violent and surprising experience of shooting a gun. Examining customization options for the AR-15 rifle. Challenges in having a truthful conversation about guns. Studying the lethality of handguns in mass shootings and comparing them to rifles.
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Quick takeaways
Handguns, not assault rifles, are the most lethal weapons used in mass shootings, as victims shot by handguns are more likely to die due to multiple shots fired at close range, highlighting the need for common laws that apply to all types of guns.
Banning assault rifles should not mean prohibiting the entire platform, but rather focusing on restricting certain modifications, as the configurability of AR-15s lies in their ability to have various add-ons and upgrades, making the distinction between assault rifles and other firearms more about specific design features rather than inherent lethality.
Deep dives
Assault Rifles: The Most Hated Gun in America
Assault rifles have gained notoriety in the gun control debate, with calls for their ban after mass shootings. However, a study reveals that handguns, not assault rifles, are the most lethal weapons used in such incidents. The study found that victims shot by handguns were more likely to die due to multiple shots fired at close range. The ability to fire rapidly and accurately at close range makes handguns deadlier. It suggests that the focus should be on common laws that apply to all types of guns, rather than separate regulations for assault rifles.
The Lego of Modern Rifles: Configurability and Add-ons
AR-15s, popular assault rifles, are known for their configurability, earning them the nickname 'Lego of modern rifles.' These rifles allow for various add-ons and upgrades, such as scopes, red dot sights, flashlights, and muzzle devices. However, banning assault rifles is not about prohibiting the entire platform but rather restricting certain modifications. Even previous assault weapon bans targeted specific add-ons. The distinction between assault rifles and other firearms lies more in the presence of specific design features rather than inherent lethality.
The Myth of Spray Firing: Debunking Misconceptions
Assault rifle bans often focus on the concept of 'spray firing' as a reason for their prohibition. However, spray firing is associated with fully automatic weapons, not semi-automatic assault rifles. Semi-automatic assault rifles, resembling their military counterparts, function by firing one bullet per trigger pull. The ability to fire rapidly is not exclusive to assault rifles, as semi-automatic handguns also possess this capability. The categorization of civilian assault weapons as capable of 'spray firing' is misleading, blurring the distinction between semi-automatic and automatic firearms.
Lethality Lies in Proximity and Accuracy
The debate around banning assault rifles often overlooks the practical realities of gun violence. Close proximity to the target significantly increases a weapon's lethality, enabling multiple shots with handguns rather than rifles. The velocity and power of rifle rounds may cause victims to fall or flee, decreasing accuracy and reducing the number of injuries. Instead of fixating on assault rifles, discussions should address common gun laws that account for proximity, accuracy, and overall lethality.
Malcolm goes to a shooting range in the woods of North Carolina to get a tutorial on the AR-15. It’s scary. It’s ugly. It’s at the center of the gun control debate. But what exactly makes it worse than other guns?