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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

AR-15s not assault rifles

Gregg Young (Jan. 18) might know some things about shotguns, but is lacking in his knowledge of rifles. Must we keep covering the same material?

AR-15s are not “assault rifles.” “AR” stands for ArmaLite Rifle. They’re semiautomatic rifles made ergonomically correct by having pistol grips. The typical AR-15 fires a .223-inch diameter bullet, the same diameter as the common .22. It’s not even big enough for hunting the relatively small, white tail deer legally.

Gregg says it’s ironic we limit shotgun capacity to save ducks, but not rifle capacity to save students. The “irony” is Gregg blaming high-capacity magazines for deaths in gun-free zones.

Frank Taylor

Deer Park

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