To address an earlier point, I think we beat the Brits on insane imperialist impulses about half a century ago.

The point of "more guns make us more secure" is along similar lines to "more f.ucking makes more virgins".

An assault weapons ban is not a magical cure all. No one is saying that. But it's an absolutely necessary first step. Why the hell do civilians need assault weapons anyway? These are weapons buit for rapid-fire, mass killing in situations of warfare. What's wrong with you, Mitch?

Sure, if you want to keep a Glock or a Beretta or whatever in your nightstand, be my guest. Get your permit. But the other type facilitate mass killing....there is basically no upside.

Sure, maybe we can boost issues with mental health, etc, not just ban weapons. There are indeed other ways to increase security. But you are a prime example of how this cultural call of unreason is so deeply embedded in the American collective psyche.

Yes, a law can be broken - even if you have a ban. But a ban means they will be next to impossible to get your hands on. Certainly, suburban assholes in places like AUorora, Columbine, and Newtown would not be able to own them. And that's a good thing.

These high profile massacres ignore all the other gun-related violence that stems from this cultural idiocy and misinterpretation of the 2nd Ammendment. There is so much more. And not a single child's life is worth your half-baked rationalizations on why you & your hick brethren should own a semi-automatic assault weapon (or two, or three...).