Hello John,

> Here in Canada if you want to own firearms you must first earn a license by
> completing some mandatory training and passing some tests. You also may not
> apply for a license and can lose an existing one if you're found to be
> incompetent or psychologically unsound. It's not all that different from a
> vehicle license like that.

Here in the US the specific laws vary from state to state. Usually with
less laws regarding purchase than carrying. While I am against laws than
ban ownership. I wouldn't be against there being a requirement to pass a
gun safety class prior to gun acquirement. In fact I help teach a class on
gun safety locally that is required prior to getting a hunting license. The
usual class is comprised of mostly 10-20 year olds.

> That said, if someone is unhinged and looking to go on a rampage I very much
> doubt they will pay gun control laws much mind regardless of how strict they
> are. The weapons will be obtained illegally and used anyway.

That is the problem as I see it. How does the state know what someone might
do or what psychological inclination someone might have toward killing one
or more people? If someone is determined to kill one or more people they
are not likely to care about what gun laws that might exist. They will be
able to acquire a gun regardless of any existing gun laws. And if a gun
isn't available they are likely to do their killing in other ways using
some other device.

Jeff


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