Tanks and gun control

National Public Radio interview with a gun show attendee: “If I can afford it, I should be able to have a tank.” Interesting proposition. How does that square up with the current gun control debate?

A Vietnam-era model still goes for about $15 million, but let’s assume that Joe is able to spring for it. Then there are the obvious logistical problems, but we will agree for the sake of this discussion that Joe can keep his tank in the backyard.

Background check? Registration? Joe’s OK with that, given his new acquisition’s potential for mayhem.

A lumbering trip down to the store to pick up a gallon of milk couldn’t be called “bearing arms.” Joe wants to use his new toy for its true purpose. Bring on the “well-regulated militia.” Joe needs to join the Army or his state National Guard. He gets training and can drive and shoot his baby to his heart’s content. He just saved himself a bundle for the small price of serving his country. What a deal.

Now, extend the above to all firearms (more or less miniature tanks). This is left as an exercise for the reader.

Ray da Silveira

Spokane