Do you think the next war on American soil is going to be against "free" gun owners?

Cpl Anthony Pearson — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 16:31:18 -0400

It's no secret, many American gun owners are feeling pressure from the government (local, state, and federal) when it comes to the laws associated with gun ownership and the right to carry openly or concealed.

In a discussion I recently read, someone mentioned that the next war will be against gun-owning American citizens. It was a powerful statement, and one that I'm not sure I can disagree with.

What are your thoughts, everyone? Do you feel this claim has merit? Or do you feel it is more paranoia?

Response by SSG Ricky Brown made Apr 5 at 2015 8:07 PM

SSG Ricky Brown — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 20:07:03 -0400

You will soon have 2 choices when buying targets. ISIS black silhouette and powder blue helmeted ISIS Silhouette.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 5 at 2015 8:25 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 20:25:20 -0400

At this point, it's just not possible. We have roughly more guns than people, and only a fractional representation of military.

If 25% of the population owns guns (estimate), and on average owns 4+, but there is only 1% military representation, any war on gun owners would be ill advised.

Response by SSG John Bacon made Apr 5 at 2015 9:25 PM

SSG John Bacon — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 21:25:58 -0400

Not sure but I have prepared for it.

Response by MSG James Varenhorst made Apr 5 at 2015 10:39 PM

MSG James Varenhorst — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 22:39:17 -0400

Likely if some of these left wing nuts take control.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 11:10 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 23:10:36 -0400

Too many vets and civilians with guns for this to happen any time soon. Many LEO's don't want to take guns from law abiding citizens either. The way things are going it's more likely that there would be a war based on race and socioeconomic reasons first.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 5 at 2015 11:36 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 23:36:18 -0400

That would spell civil war and it would cause the economy to topple.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 5 at 2015 11:39 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 23:39:07 -0400

Supposedly the government will tell welfare recipients they will do the fire arms confiscations or they don't get any welfare funds.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Apr 5 at 2015 11:46 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 23:46:18 -0400

Not so sure this a war they'd really want.....look at the terrorist attack in Paris around the New Years holiday timeframe....the shooter had zero resistance from the unarmed (sheep) populace.....that wont happen in the good ole US of A!

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 5 at 2015 11:56 PM

COL Charles Williams — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 23:56:41 -0400

No, I do not think the government is coming for our guns. I think this is merely hype in the media, and gun and ammo makers.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Apr 6 at 2015 1:14 AM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 01:14:40 -0400

no, there wont be another "War" on american soil.

Response by SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA made Apr 6 at 2015 2:25 AM

SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 02:25:02 -0400

No.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Apr 6 at 2015 6:20 AM

Cpl Tou Lee Yang — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 06:20:24 -0400

I'm sure people with their gun is really going to make a significant difference when the tanks, drones, and bomb starts. Good luck trying to kill them.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Apr 6 at 2015 6:33 AM

Cpl Jeff N. — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 06:33:47 -0400

They might but if they do it will not be a full out assault on owners. The left has been trying to chip away at different pieces for years. Many years ago we had the groups going after hand guns saying we didn't need them, they only kill innocent people etc etc etc.

We also have has the "assault weapons" banners. They want to get rif of anything with a magazine and a semi-automatic feature. SOme states have limited magazines already.

Recently, we have had folks that want to go after certain ammunition.

They keep sending out trial balloons to see how they float. If they ever think they can do it, they will. That is just how they are wired. It will be done incrementally though. Certain weapons, certain ammo etc.

One of the most important things we can do is take your kids to the range, show them how to shoot, to respect weapons, to value the right to keep arms etc. The left likes to use the inexperienced youth to try to drive public opinion and policy. They have been dumbing them down in public schools for years.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 6 at 2015 9:36 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 09:36:47 -0400

Over time the human condition is more typified by war than peace. Geographic and temporal disruptions to this do occur, and have been occurring in CONUS for quite some time.

There are 90 firearms for ever 100 people in the US. We are more widely armed as a people with more potential for lethality than any other in history. A more equitable distribution of force decreases the likelihood of a breakout of war, and reduces the casualty count (probably). However, it does make it likely that the 'next war on American soil is going to be against "free" gun owners' whether it is waged by a foreign military power, a coercive domestic government, extraterrestrial invaders, strong AI controlling drones and TalonBots or factional disputants following a massive breakdown of social order.

All of the wars fought on US soil have involved "free gun owners" (troops other than only regulars) so odds are it will follow that trend.

(quote questionably sourced, but witty and apt).

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Apr 6 at 2015 12:12 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 12:12:42 -0400

As with most things in history, the thing that seems likely does not happen and something out of left field blindsides us.

Look at the major tank battles in Central Europe between the Warsaw Pact and NATO.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 12:25 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 12:25:44 -0400

I have no opinion. Hell I don't even have any guns...that you know about. Big Brother is watching. Loose lips sink ships and so forth.

I can say that I sure hope that never happens. Somebody posted earlier that they were expecting it and ready for it. Somebody else replied how traitorous that sounded...yet our forefathers were Brits who fired on British soldiers when the chips were on the table. "Give me Liberty or give me Death!" wasn't fiction. Anyway, I hope it never happens.

Response by SGT William Howell made Apr 6 at 2015 1:41 PM

SGT William Howell — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 13:41:58 -0400

I am in a unique situation because I work for a gun manufacture and we supply barrels for military and civilians including large OEMs. I see things different than some people.

Is the current president a uber liberal that thinks guns are evil. You bet! Is he going to take your guns away...Nope! Oh he wants to, but even he can't go around the Constitution on this one. Obama is controversial and he has divided this country on so many levels, but we are still Americans and that bond is going to be hard to break.

If you look back there were many other presidents that were hated or loved too. FDR, Kennedy, and Carter all were very controversial and Americans took sides with them. Obama will be no different.

Our forefathers had enough foresight to see that there may be someone that would want to become king. That is exactly why the 2nd amendment is there and exactly why we will never have a king.

Response by SSG John Erny made Apr 6 at 2015 1:52 PM

SSG John Erny — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 13:52:23 -0400

I think this is not the time nor place to have this discussion. Join the NRA or other Gun rights group and let them speak on your behalf. Their are people watching what we say and you do not want to have a label placed upon you. Anti 2A zealots will use anything to people say to attack them. For those of you who do not have a V or R on your rally point title do not touch this thread with a 10 foot pole.

Response by SP5 Michael Rathbun made Apr 6 at 2015 3:43 PM

SP5 Michael Rathbun — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 15:43:18 -0400

So far all the "wars" of this type have been "by", not "against", going way back to the decades following the founding of this nation.

I have yet to find any significant sentiment in favor of conducting domestic military or LEO campaigns of any description against persons possessing firearms in the USA. My universe is probably a lot different from yours: a lot of my friends, acquaintances and associates (and perhaps even myself) would be classified by many participants here as "frothing left-wing liberal loonies".

Better control (along the lines that the NRA used to urge before they were re-purposed and I canceled my membership*) is a good idea; attempts at confiscation, even if there were any possible positive outcome, are right out.

* My Dad and I periodically have vociferous discussions of this issue, after which we may go out to his range up country and expend a few rounds in the usual "who can get the tightest group with this weapon and that stance" competition. I'm starting to win a lot, but then he is 95.

Response by Sgt Lauren Weigand made Apr 7 at 2015 2:07 AM

Sgt Lauren Weigand — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 02:07:09 -0400

I can assume that there are many people out there who claim that another war on American soil is not plausible, but I will say that nothing is impossible. Our streets have been flooded with an increasing brutal police force. I am not saying that the police are bad and I respect their service to our communities, but I am saying they are increasingly gaining new weapons and materials. I would also like to note that there has become many cases of police officers around the states who used lethal force as their means of containing a situation rather then using the necessary force that could have been used. On another had our top political officials have become rather careless in the laws they propose on our citizens and many don't even recognize our constitution anymore. With that being said, is there any politician out there that will stand up for the American people? With our economy hurling downward at an alarming speed and many citizens committing atrocious offense our country has become quite chaotic in recent years or even months. I think in the near future a war could be possible. I am not sure yet who the enemy might be or even if it will start due to the gun issues. I personally think if the war starts it will stem from a major scale riot and go completely out of control. I also think a possible enemy may be of foreigners invited in by our own politicians to fight of our patriots of the modern era.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Apr 7 at 2015 12:30 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 12:30:41 -0400

Add a few years...

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Apr 7 at 2015 1:31 PM

MSgt James Mullis — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 13:31:55 -0400

I voted no. It is more likely to be fought by US mobs/Mafia organizations against Mexican and/or South American Drug syndicates attempting to take over Americas cities. With the Obama administration welcoming (and in many cases paying for) their affiliates (gang members) to enter the US as the newly titled "undocumented citizens".

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 1:32 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 13:32:17 -0400

I have a hard time believing that a majority of the US military would fire on civilians who are defending their right to keep and bear arms.

Response by SSG Alex Toulomelis made Apr 7 at 2015 2:17 PM

SSG Alex Toulomelis — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 14:17:15 -0400

I do not think that there will be a war against the American Citizen. The prospect of removing all weapons from all citizens would be a monumental undertaking, our military could not control the flow of arms in and out of a country the size of Texas. It is foolish to believe that we could do it here. Two major flaws in the idea that there would be a war against the civilian population. Number 1: While I have read the stories about high ranking Generals from all branches of service being relieved due to their unwillingness to fire on American citizens, a key aspect of that idea is forgotten. It is the troops on the ground that would be pulling the trigger. We have developed a fighting force that has the ability and the duty to question unlawful orders. I find it highly unlikely that troops from the line would open fire on American citizens. Number 2: It would be logistically impossible to seal the boarders from illegal arms traffic and remove the weapons from all homes. We do not possess enough law enforcement officers and military members to perform this task while protecting our interest abroad and fight everyday domestic crime.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Apr 7 at 2015 2:35 PM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 14:35:51 -0400

I voted 'nonsense'. Gun companies have seen record profits. Something to be said about perennially ginning up fears of a soon to come but never quite coming takeover of guns. If I was in the gun sales business I'd want to constantly drum up that fear as well. On a related note President Obama has been a useful tool for that bit of marketing genius.

to wit:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2015/03/11/barack-obama-may-have-been-at-least-a-9-billion-boon-to-the-gun-industry-so-far/

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Apr 7 at 2015 4:09 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 16:09:41 -0400

I pray to God not. I'd hate to be the commander ordered to open fire on civilians, armed or not. In that scenario it would most likely be a National Guard unit called up to protect the citizenry from an armed and organized insurrection.

Though everyday, I look at what is happening in the world and think how long til that happens on our shores? We've suffered from both domestic and foreign terrorism violent protestors, but not an armed insurrection. (Though Ferguson I thought was going to come close) Nobody would want that type of action on their conscience.

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Apr 7 at 2015 6:04 PM

SFC Boots Attaway — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 18:04:34 -0400

By the time they get to my door here in Texas they will have gone through the TxDPS, the Texas Guard (not National Guard), County Sherriff and city cops, but I will already be GONE.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 6:17 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 18:17:10 -0400

Utter nonsense being exploited by the media and reinforced by politicians wanting to get heard. And in the extreme that does happen.. "You can pry them from my cold dead hands"

Response by PO2 Edward Shelton made Apr 7 at 2015 8:56 PM

PO2 Edward Shelton — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 20:56:06 -0400

I'd have to say it is just plain nonsense, the media is just likes to keep on digging into stories like this to scare people. It would be a suicide mission for the government anyways, since almost every home has a firearm of some sort.

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Apr 7 at 2015 9:33 PM

PV2 Violet Case — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 21:33:43 -0400

yes I do, but they are going to have a hard time with that one. And it is a stupid one at that. We have the right to defend our homes and families, but most of all to hunt to feed them. It will end up in a martial law act and the president nos it and wants it. But since president Obama has taken office the purchasing of guns has risen.
http://cnsnews.com/blog/gregory-gwyn-williams-jr/654-million-gun-purchases-obama-took-office-91-more-bushs-first-term

some more interesting things:
http://www.akdart.com/obama145.html

At the last minute in the end of his time he will pull a fast one so hope everyone is ready.

65.4 Million Gun Purchases Since Obama Took Office, 91% More Than Bush's First-Term Total

There have been 65,376,373 background checks completed for Americans purchasing firearms since February of 2009, the first full month of Barack Obama's presidency.

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Apr 7 at 2015 9:50 PM

SGT Francis Wright — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 21:50:54 -0400

Paranoia, nonsense? I don't think so. When it does happen, they will first roundup the gun owners, then they will roundup veterans/retirees; those that are willing and able to fight. Then everything and everyone left will follow. Don't have to believe me listen to the past.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Apr 7 at 2015 9:57 PM

PO3 Steven Sherrill — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 21:57:30 -0400

The United States constitution was written at a time when the difference between military and civilian weapons was negligible at best. Our fore fathers put in the right to bear arms as a means of keeping the government from tyranny against the people. It is a beautiful theory. Unfortunately now it is not so practical. The United States armed forces is one of if not the best equipped military force on earth. Americans slsughtering each other would be just that a slaughter. The only mitigating factor is conscience. On both sides ides of a war over civil liberties, you will have people that do not wish to fight their fellow citizens. I understand the frustration. It seems that the Goering is intent on govrrning every aspect of life. It is the early stages of George Orwell's 1984. We are also to blame. Text speak, a 24 hour news cycle that is mostly filler, news for profit, not demanding better off or elected officials. Not being willing to actually dig deeper into what is put out for information. If we as a people want to avoid this scenario, there is a solution.
1. Learn about the issues that are important.

2. Demand better of our elected officials.

3. Stop accepting the two party system.

4. Allow each citizen to choose how they want to live without forcing one's own morality on others.

5. Stop trying to legislate morality.

6. Don't tolerate politicisns in any of the three branches circumventing the constitution.

7. Institute term limitations on congress, senate and supreme court similar to those on the presidency.

8. Do due dilligence on candidates, amendments, and ballot issues before voting.

9. VOTE!

That is a simplified list, but that would be a start to moving the nation in the right direction.
.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Apr 7 at 2015 11:06 PM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 23:06:22 -0400

If it did ever come down to that you can be rest assured our military won't be used. The ones that would initiate this would not trust American military members to follow an illegal order to fire on U.S. Citizens. If this were to ever happen it would most likely be a U.N. operation.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 11:13 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 23:13:40 -0400

War? No, that's retarded. What I think will happen is some ultra conservative loony militias will consider themselves at war with what they consider a failed state in their delusional minds. This has happened before.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 6:59 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 06:59:03 -0400

There are far too many people stirring the pot suggesting civil war - second amendment violations, first amendment violations, NSA privacy infringements. Civil war is not the answer. People complain about Washington not working, but continue to vote for the same career politicians. If you want liberty stop voting for a parties and start voting for individuals that you vetted. If no one good is running, draft yourself or someone else. Domestic civil war isn't the answer when you're not using the political system.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 8:21 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 08:21:43 -0400

I strongly feel that talk of FEMA concentration camps, martial law, and basically anything Alex Jones warns about is total BS. What's more realistic would be a natural disaster, terrorist attack or economic collapse where those who are unprepared would try to take from those who are.

Response by SSG Donald Mceuen made Apr 8 at 2015 8:52 AM

SSG Donald Mceuen — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 08:52:51 -0400

I hope this country is better than that but we do need to be ready. they can not have mine
so that would mean they would have to come and take them and that would not be pretty
but i still want to have faith in our leaders to fix themselfs and then try to help are country
get back on track and understand that it is are right to own weapons

Response by SPC James Johnson made Apr 8 at 2015 9:02 AM

SPC James Johnson — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 09:02:35 -0400

I read this because the 1911s caught my eye. Mmmmmmmmmmmm...

But seriously, there is more likelihood of a zombie apocalypse than a war against gun owners in America. Worst case scenario, a couple crazy militiamen go out in a firefight because they mistook the mailman for a CIA sting operation to confiscate their firearms.

-proud Gun Owner and Everyday Carrier

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made Apr 8 at 2015 9:50 AM

Cpl Anthony Pearson — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 09:50:55 -0400

Do you know that Veterans diagnosed with PTSD (any level of PTSD) have limited gun rights? I am not aware of all the details, if it only includes carry conceal permits, or if it also includes home protection. Either way, if a veteran goes to the VA for help and is diagnosed with PTSD, his or her rights to gun ownership are affected.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Apr 8 at 2015 12:33 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 12:33:28 -0400

Changing my answer, I think it will only involve guns that have been paid for.

Response by SGT James Hastings made Apr 8 at 2015 1:06 PM

SGT James Hastings — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 13:06:26 -0400

So many anti-gun statements from the press and the President of the US makes me wonder. Guns don't kill, people kill. Mostly out of control, maybe deranged people who happen to also have a gun handy. I think I read somewhere that more people in the US are attacked with knives than guns. Not sure but you can run easier away from a knife, in most cases.

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Apr 8 at 2015 4:08 PM

SGT Mark Sullivan — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 16:08:30 -0400

It's amazing to me, I have watched this play out, and a part of me has to laugh. I'll explain why... My sister posted a picture about a Mother, showing up to her daughters fist fight, with a pistol. Now, my sisters comment was this, "This just shows the "gun culture that we live in." Now, here is the problem in my eyes, ...A mother shows up to daughters fist fight... How in the fuck is that normal? But, the focus is on the fact she brought a pistol, not the fact the mother was at her daughters fist fight. This doesn't show me "Gun Culture" this shows me the problem is with "Thug Culture." And this is how they are going to bring everybody against gun owners, using deceit and misinformation. They will allow the criminals the upper hand, and then all hell is gonna break loose

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 5:15 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 17:15:46 -0400

First, nothing is impossible. Such a scenario is highly unlikely though, right up there with a space alien invasion or a series of super volcano eruptions that lead to the end of civilization as we know it. My next thought is realistically how would such a scenario come into being? There are dozens of scenarios that could cause serious disruption of this nation’s ability to get essential resources like food and water to regions that need it, in such an emergency the Federal government would attempt to distribute essential good as efficiently as possible… at the same time panic might also fuel the establishment of roving gangs and banditry in rural areas.

In an effort to squash banditry, government might go after heavily armed groups in rural areas and attempt to disarm them. State and local governments in some areas might also aggressively go after gun owners in urban areas in an effort to reduce violence should they not be able to provide enough essential resources to the populous. I say some areas, because if most people in a region owns firearms, that wouldn't be feasible.

The point is that any attempt to seize guns would be as a reaction to a series of events that had little to do with politicians at the national level likening or not likening guns until they were confronted with armed groups that challenged their authority. A much greater concern would be local and state politicians. Where you lived would be a very important factor, and how they perceived gun ownership (helpful or a threat). If you live in California, it might be difficult to hold onto that AR-15… if you live in Arizona, their more likely to issue you a rifle, than take it away.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 5:58 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 17:58:07 -0400

This is a crazy question since guns are more easily accessible then at almost any other time in our history. The NRA has an incredible amount of power and politicians avoid opposing gun restrictions as much as possible even when school kids are getting massacred. So no, the government isn't coming for anyone's guns.

Response by SPC Lee Burner made Apr 8 at 2015 11:24 PM

SPC Lee Burner — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 23:24:36 -0400

I sure hope not cause I'm one of them! I don't think American troops will be willing to fire on American citizens. Which is why I think when I see NATO troops or foreign soldiers in the U.S. Then I will be worried. I take comfort in the fact that all U.S. Soldiers swear to protect the constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic and if you can't recognize who the true enemy is you got no business being one of our protectors. God bless the USA and watch over our troops.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 1:10 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 13:10:54 -0400

It's already occurring...politically. Over my cold dead fingers!!!!!!!

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Apr 9 at 2015 1:20 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 13:20:59 -0400

I feel it is coming....however, not necessarily as a "shooting war".... It has already begun in the various levels of government. Everyone knows that there are people stockpiling ammo. I HOPE that this is successfully derailed in the political arena, but if not, there are plenty of gun owners with ammo to help defend this ugliness (many are military/former military). It would become a MESS at the very best....

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2015 3:00 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 15:00:46 -0400

I am not going to comment with any "certainty" on whether I believe "the government" is going to come after my guns or not. (What guns? I don't have any guns?...) What I will say is that, as a Soldier, I swore an oath to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against ALL enemies, foreign and domestic".

That said, I would sooner stand WITH the People to defend our Constitutional rights, before I would stand AGAINST the People in armed conflict over rights guaranteed us by our Constitution.

Anyone who would deny that the current federal administration, as well as several state legislatures, have made several attempts at gun control (Connecticut "assault weapons" registration, NY "SAFE" Act, Operation Choke Point, BATFE proposed ban on 5.56/.223 ammunition, BATFE unlawful seizure of "80% lowers", etc.) over the past few years, is either woefully ignorant or willfully naïve.

Does that mean that they will begin going door-to-door to take your guns by force? I don't think so. Even the Feds aren't that foolish.

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Apr 22 at 2015 1:55 PM

SSG Sean Knudsen — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 13:55:46 -0400

No I don't believe our government is coming for the firearms in the hands of legal owners that are responsible. Keep in mind that in the 1930s through 40s all senior leaders in Japan feared a gun behind every blade of grass and in that era there were less firearm owners and less citizens than today because of population growth. I know a lot of law enforcement and all say that disarming the law abiding American would be a death sentence to law enforcement agencies both municipal state and federal. When free societies are ridden of firearms, criminals would soon run the leading country in the world.

Response by SSgt Jonathan King made Jan 7 at 2016 11:28 AM

SSgt Jonathan King — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 11:28:00 -0500

Did Trump tell you this? Did he tell you Obama was coming for your guns? Did he tell you to lock your door and don't open when you see the President standing on your porch telling you it's time to hand over your .22?

I've seen so many complaints from gun rights enthusiasts that we need to just enforce the laws we've got. The briefings on the executive orders note additional funding for more ATF agents to enforce the laws. A lot of folks who own guns know that they went through background checks to purchase their weapons. The briefings on the executive orders note required criminal background checks regardless of where you purchase your weapon (online, in a store, at a gun show, etc.) since there are currently many ways to purchase a firearm without a background check. A lot of talk centers on the fact that guns aren't the problem, mental illness is a common factor in a lot of these mass shootings. The briefings on the executive orders note new investment in mental health care.

Gun rights enthusiasts can also take their little quotes and memes about Hitler removing gun rights out of the picture. The 1938 German Weapons Act reduced restrictions on gun ownership, and the closest thing Hitler ever said to disarmament quote so often attributed to him was regarding non-Aryan Russians in occupied Russia during the war. A little research goes a long way, but no research just makes you look silly.

Notably absent from the briefings: any rules about existing gun owners. Any rules about mandatory buy backs. Any rules about specific groups based on anything other than mental health and criminal history.

Notably absent from politically motivated attacks on executive orders regarding gun control: facts. Logic. Reason. Common sense.

Response by SPC Kevin Schober made Jan 7 at 2016 11:32 AM

SPC Kevin Schober — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 11:32:51 -0500

I believe due to radical gun control states like NY it may happen sooner or later if they keep passing insane laws designed to make gun ownership almost impossible. It takes 12-18 months to get a conceal carry permit there now. They are proposing in legislation to limit amount of ammo you can purchase to every 90 days and you can only purchase 2x the legal capacity of the weapon. So if you own a 38 revolver you could only purchase 12 rounds every 90 days ? It will most likely fail to pass but they will keep trying until they get it through. They failed at taking guns away from the residents so now they are looking at any way they can to make it extremely difficult in other ways. I am glad I moved away from that over taxed state before Gov Cuomo was elected because that guy IMHO is in no way representing what the people of the state want and has his own personal agenda.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Jan 7 at 2016 2:15 PM

1stSgt Eugene Harless — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 14:15:24 -0500

Absolutely not. There is a lunatic fringe that swears that the "gubmint" is coming for their guns. They tend to attach themselves to the conservative side, but they are so far gone that they are generally shunned. Individual gun owners, and even these flake militias are not capable of conducting warfare against the US. Any type of war would be a result of a conflict between States that break off from the country to form their own nation. Eventually this will happen, I dont know trhwe timetable but I would say trhat withing 150 years this country will be fractured.

Response by CPT Doug Waterfield made Jan 7 at 2016 3:55 PM

CPT Doug Waterfield — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 15:55:19 -0500

For all of you who believe that a) the government won't confiscate firearms and b) soldiers and police would refuse to follow such orders and c) that such an event would lead to armed conflict.....you might want to read about what happened in the aftermath of Katrina: http://www.examiner.com/article/five-years-later-no-accountability-for-post-katrina-gun-grab

The fact is that our own government did come after citizen's guns, police and military personnel helped carry out that confiscation, and citizens did not rise up in armed rebellion against this assault on their rights. It happened right here in America, in this century, during a highly publicized event, and most people don't even know it.

Five years later, no accountability for post-Katrina gun grab

Five years ago this weekend, Hurricane Katrina slammed into southern Louisiana and Mississippi, devastating the City of New Orleans, killing hundreds of peo

Response by CPO Andy Carrillo, MS made Jan 7 at 2016 4:15 PM

CPO Andy Carrillo, MS — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 16:15:17 -0500

Disaffection with any organization (disappointment in unmet expectations) has always fueled conflict, and the 'Sagebrush Wars' is but only one example which has yet to go away. Perceived oppression seems to be the unifying belief that feeds most disaffection.
http://www.kansascity.com/news/government-politics/article53351000.html

Experts: Oregon standoff may be small, but it’s just the tip of a growing militia iceberg

Militias are growing at a rapid rate, a new report says, with gun control helping to spark new groups. And despite criticism of their cautious approach, FBI officials are taking an intelligent approach at the standoff in Oregon, experts say.

Response by CW3 Jim Norris made Jan 7 at 2016 5:44 PM

CW3 Jim Norris — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 17:44:52 -0500

Only those that own that scary black long gun....or maybe that scary looking 1911....oops or perhaps that excessive magazine....

Response by Dalton Nichols made Jan 7 at 2016 8:28 PM

Dalton Nichols — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 20:28:26 -0500

I don't believe it'll be the next war, but I'm sure it's coming, at least of Hillary gets elected.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Jan 8 at 2016 6:53 AM

MAJ Bryan Zeski — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 06:53:16 -0500

I own guns. No one has made any move to take my guns and I don't feel threatened that it will happen in the future.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jan 8 at 2016 7:12 AM

LTC Bink Romanick — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 07:12:20 -0500

Cpl Anthony Pearson I don't think that this will happen. I think that some sensible gun legislation is necessary and that the current laws should be enforced.

I truthfully don't see how we can prevent mass shootings by mentally ill individuals by legislating. Conversely I don't think that anyone on the no fly list should be allowed to purchase a gun.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Jan 8 at 2016 9:16 AM

MSgt Michael Smith — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 09:16:51 -0500

The only pressure these gunowners are feeling is from their own paranoia, and I'm not so sure that anyone is actually feeling pressure, but conservative media and the gun lobby wants people to believe that. Its called spin.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Jan 8 at 2016 11:32 AM

MAJ Matthew Arnold — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 11:32:13 -0500

Look to history to understand the complexity of such an unfortunate event. The years before and the American Civil War is a text book study in how to arrive at such an event. The war was not simply about states rights or slavery. The war was a result of complex and varied issues with everything at stake for some. Any such belligerence today will also be a result of complex issues, not just about gun control.

Yes gun control would be one of the issues, but at the heart of the conflict is the belief that one is standing up for the constitution, in essence standing up for the USA, defending the USA, a patriot, while the other is wrong. And, with people on both sides of the conflict believing that. Then there will be declarations of cessation possibly followed by civil war.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 8 at 2016 12:15 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 12:15:20 -0500

You would think that the horror of war, especially internecine war, would prevent any such eventuality, but we seem drawn to it like moths to a flame. Sadly, it appears that fear is drawing a plurality of Americans into the web of the tyrants and their agenda to disarm We the People. Thus, it grows increasingly doubtful that the trend will be stopped by the election of Representatives who will draw us back from that disaster. At present, the social conflict is great because the two sides are almost evenly divided. If one were dominant, there would be little discussion. However, if the anti-gun forces win a clear plurality and the pro-gun forces refuse to accept their judgment that we should surrender our right of self-defense, what choice is there other than open rebellion.

Keep in mind that rebellion does not require a majority. The American Revolution was fought within the Colonies by a population pretty evenly divided into thirds: One third Rebel, one third Tory, and one third let me hide in the woods and avoid the whole thing. Some of the fiercest battles of that Revolution were fought, not between Rebels and British regulars, but rather between Rebel and Tory (both sides Colonists). I don't expect we'll see a repeat of that since the anti-gun faction has disarmed themselves. They'll rely on the government to fight the battle for them if it comes to that.

Will the US military take up arms in this conflict? Now there's a question for another discussion...

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jan 8 at 2016 1:06 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 13:06:55 -0500

To be honest, I think there are many people with public platforms in government and the media who would like nothing better than to make the USA a gun-free zone Cpl Anthony Pearson. They are vastly outnumbered by people who don't really care and and those who actually support the 2nd amendment of the US constitution and believe that responsible gun ownership is a constitutional right.
The government folks beating the drum for a gun-free america tend to be part of the group that believes the constitution needs to be reinterpreted with each new generation.
Declaring war by peaceniks is an oxymoron and I do not believe it will actually happen.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jan 8 at 2016 1:35 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 13:35:44 -0500

Those that profess that there is a war against gun ownership are driving by fear and ignorance because they do not see the facts, 2016 compared to 1970's when conceal carried was heavily controlled and semi automatic weapons were not to be easily acquired.

Response by SSG Don Maggart made Jan 8 at 2016 3:40 PM

SSG Don Maggart — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 15:40:44 -0500

Well According to the MIAC Report we are public enemy #1.... Screw ISIS it's the Veterans...

Response by PO3 Brad Phlipot made Jan 9 at 2016 4:52 AM

PO3 Brad Phlipot — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 04:52:27 -0500

No. Besides many of us can make short work of the HI-Tech comms and numerous other devices, focus outward it is a dangerous world

Response by PO1 Rodney Bracey made Jan 9 at 2016 8:15 AM

PO1 Rodney Bracey — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 08:15:08 -0500

Absolutely not. I sincerely wish people would get there news and current events for other/alternate sources and/or entertain opinions from sources that do not necessarily agree with their point of view. There is no war on gun owners. I own guns, my wife owns guns, we both have CCW permits. I am no more worried about the government trying to take my guns than I am the government trying to steal peppers from my garden. Listen to talk radio, or at the least, seek out additional news sources. 90% of what we see on TV is controlled by 6 media corporations. These media companies can easily control the outrage or compassion for any given topic or current event if you let them. That's not conspiracy. That's just fact. (IMO)

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Jan 9 at 2016 6:11 PM

CW4 Brian Haas — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 18:11:56 -0500

Even if the government wanted to do this, I do not know of a single person in the Services that would turn a weapon on our own citizens. Hell, most I know would be part of the "other side" that owns guns. Come and take it...

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jan 9 at 2016 8:31 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 20:31:08 -0500

With big brother scanning the web, I'll reserve my real feeling for face to face with those I know.

Response by PV2 Bengie Gonzalz LMHC made Jan 9 at 2016 10:19 PM

PV2 Bengie Gonzalz LMHC — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 22:19:44 -0500

times surely have changed and it seems that if you are a law abiding conservative person you are being targeted.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2016 5:56 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 17:56:38 -0500

No, there are too many of us.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Jan 26 at 2016 6:50 PM

CDR Michael Goldschmidt — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 18:50:31 -0500

It's going on, already, but looking back in history, it's far from the first time. The violence angle is just a red herring. Half of the death stats that the anti-gunners quote are from suicides, but, obviously, they can't stop suicides by banning guns. Are they also going to ban tall buildings, ropes, gas ovens, automobiles, tubs, razors, sleeping pills, etc.? Of course not. Another 10% are from cops. Is anyone considering taking weapons away from cops? Not even close. Didn't the DoD just give lots of select-fire M-4s and M-16s to them? How many of the remaining 40% of deaths from gunshots were defensive? We'll never know, because that doesn't fit the narrative.

Every successful dictator has always collected the people's guns or killed those who resisted. They have to manipulate opinion through controlling or subverting the media, they have to limit communications, they have to condition the children through the schools, and they have to control access to healthcare.

Does any of this sound familiar?

Molon Labe. It's better to die on your feet, then to live on your knees. Remember, too: let them come to you. The only fair fight is the one you win.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made May 7 at 2016 5:11 PM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Sat, 07 May 2016 17:11:00 -0400

There are approximately 85 million gun owners in the US....at best, we have a 2 million service members and about a million Police.....the numbers are simply not there to take them by force...and by the way...a good portion of the service members and Police are lawful gun owners themselves...so who is going to take them away? Only way it could happen is if it was done willingly. So, to avoid that, make sure you get out and vote!

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made May 8 at 2016 1:22 AM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sun, 08 May 2016 01:22:45 -0400

Hillary Clinton said in 2015 that "when I become president, we will do away with the NRA once and for all and institute a handgun ban" That statement doesn't sound like paranoia to me, it sounds like an agenda. She is a big fan of the draconian Australian anti-gun plan. How she plans on circumventing the constitution is another matter. She will be in a position to radically change the balance of the supreme court,and thus the interpretation of the laws of the land. I do believe there is a tipping point to sane people tolerating all of this anti constitutional BS somewhere down the road.