Common Misconceptions About Gun Control: Debunking Myths and Understanding the Truth
In recent years, gun control has become a contentious issue in the United States and beyond. However, many of the misconceptions surrounding this topic stem from a lack of understanding of the current laws and regulations. In this article, we will address some of the most common myths and provide factual information to help clarify the situation.
Myth 1: You can buy a gun online and have it shipped to your door without a background check.
Many people believe that it is possible to purchase a firearm online and have it shipped directly to their home without any form of background check. This is a misconception. According to federal laws, when a firearm is shipped, it is required to be sent through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. This means that the carrier, whether it be a postal service or another third-party, must be aware that a firearm is being shipped and ensure that the transaction complies with the law.
I once purchased my first firearm online. Although I could have had it shipped directly to me, I chose to have it shipped to an FFL. This process involves filling out a Form 4473 and undergoing a background check. If the background check does not approve, the individual could be arrested on the spot, and the money paid for the firearm might not be refunded. This process ensures that the firearm is legally acquired and that potential issues are addressed before the firearm is transferred.
Myth 2: Anyone can legally buy automatic weapons.
Another common misconception is that anyone can buy an automatic weapon without any restrictions. However, this is simply not the case. Automatic firearms are heavily restricted under U.S. law. Prior to purchasing an automatic weapon, an individual must undergo a similar process to obtain a machine gun. This process includes fingerprinting and another background check. In many cases, this can take over a year and must be repeated for each firearm that is acquired.
It is important to note that after May 19, 1986, the manufacture of new automatic firearms for civilian use was prohibited. Even if an individual possesses a legally manufactured automatic weapon before this date, they must still go through this rigorous process to maintain possession and ownership.
Myth 3: Anyone can buy a silencer!
Another common belief is that acquiring a silencer is as simple as anyone wanting one can just purchase one without any hassle. However, this is incorrect. To buy a silencer, one must undergo a process with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This process involves significant paperwork, fingerprinting, and the payment of a 200 tax directly to the federal government. Processing times can vary greatly, and for some, the process can take over a year.
Once approved, the silencer is registered to the buyer, and the ATF maintains all the necessary information, including the buyer’s address. This stringent regulation ensures that the silencer is not only legally owned but also tracks its ownership and usage.
Legislative Challenges
A sad reality is that some legislators lack a basic understanding of the existing laws. This can lead to redundancy in new legislation proposals, causing significant resistance and debate. For instance, a proposed bill might be deemed unnecessary if existing laws cover the same ground, leading to a heated debate over whether new legislation is required or if existing regulations can be strengthened further.
Conclusion
Gun control and the regulation of firearms are complex issues with many misconceptions surrounding them. By understanding the truth behind common myths, such as the ability to purchase firearms without background checks, the ease of buying automatic weapons, and the simplicity of acquiring silencers, individuals can contribute to more informed discussions and support policies that promote public safety.