Posted on Jan 9, 2016
SSG Gerhard S.
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I recently heard an interview with a congressman regarding "common sense" gun-violence laws. They suggested we should require training and proficiency certification, and more extensive background checks prior to allowing people to possess firearms. After all, they argued, we require training, and a test to drive a car? Here's my question: If we're going down this road, why do we entrust any idiot to bear and raise a child with no training, proficiency testing, or background checks?
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Responses: 27
LTC Yinon Weiss
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Edited 9 y ago
No. What exactly is the concern... that would-be criminals are not competent enough with their firearms?

If we had required the San Bernadino shooters for example to be more proficient with their firearms, would that have helped or hurt? Responsible gun owners already do the right thing. Criminals do not. Government training would-be criminals on lethal tactics doesn't seem like a solution to anything, not to mention how much it leaves open the opportunity for manipulation by future politicians to restrict rights of law abiding citizens.

Should we also require certification and proficiency training for owning a knife, since 8 times more people are killed by knives each year than by rifles?
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PO3 Electrician's Mate
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lol make sure the criminal know how to use them too?? lol good point.
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SFC Retention and Transition NCO (USAR)
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Edited 9 y ago
NO, I agree with training, but I do not believe it should be a requirement for ownership.
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SGM Steve Wettstein
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COL Jon Thompson
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Perhaps there should be classes and proficiency to use the 1st Amendment as well. Driving a car is not a Constitutional right whereas gun ownership is. Now I do think responsible citizens should take the time to become proficient on their weapons so they can use them the right way. But if the government requires it, than we are adding a cost burden to citizens to exercise their rights.
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