Myth Buster: Assault Rifles and Their Availability at Gun Stores

It’s a common misconception that assault rifles are easily available for purchase at gun stores. In reality, assault rifles are a specific type of firearm with a precise definition, and they are, in fact, more restricted than you might think. This article aims to dispel the myths surrounding assault rifles and clarify why they are—or are not—available for purchase at gun stores.

‘Assault Rifles’ and True Meaning

The term 'assault rifle' is often misunderstood and bandied about by those who lack a clear understanding of firearms. In reality, 'assault rifle' is a term of art that has a specific legal definition. It refers to firearms that are capable of being fired in fully automatic, semi-automatic or burst-fire modes.

Highly accessible and popular rifles such as the M16 and M4, often inaccurately labeled as 'assault rifles,' are actually classified as selective-fire rifles. These are military-grade firearms designed for precision and automatic fire control. However, civilian versions are modified to be semi-automatic, making them legal for civilian use in the United States under strict regulations.

Regular Rifles vs. ‘Assault Rifles’

What’s often lost in the discussion is the fundamental difference between a regular rifle and an assault rifle. Regular rifles, whether semi-automatic or not, are not 'assault rifles' in the legal sense. They are legal, widely available firearms that while capable of causing harm, are not designed or modified for automatic fire.

Anyone can commit an assault with almost any tool, not just a firearm. Not every weapon in your home needs the label 'assault weapon' applied to it. A knife, a rock, or even a stick—these can all be used to commit a violent act. However, they are not classified as 'assault rifles'.

Uninformed Criticisms

Statements like 'Why can you simply walk into any grocery store and by an assault can of soup' are a misleading and simplistic interpretation. It’s important to understand that the term 'assault rifle' carries a very specific meaning that includes the capabilities to fire in select modes, such as fully automatic or burst fire.

These firearms are not readily available at typical gun stores, especially in the United States, where strict regulations govern their sale and ownership. Attempting to ban all firearms because they share a name with 'assault rifles' is not only misguided but also literal nonsense.

FAQ: Assault Rifles and Their Availability

Q: Why are assault rifles available for purchase at gun stores?

A: They are not. The term 'assault rifle' is defined legally and does not apply to the majority of firearms sold in gun stores. The M16 and M4, often inaccurately referred to as 'assault rifles,' are military-grade firearms with specific legal restrictions. Civilian versions, which are semi-automatic, are available but only under strict federal and state regulations.

Q: What is a Class III firearm that is available at gun stores?

A: A Class III firearm that is typically available at gun stores includes items like machine guns, shotguns, and certain types of rifles. However, the availability and sale of these firearms are highly regulated and often subject to strict background checks and documentation.

Q: Why can’t people simply walk into any gun store and buy an assault rifle?

A: Because the term 'assault rifle' is not a blanket term for all semi-automatic or semiautomatic style firearms. In fact, the term has a legal definition that includes specific capabilities such as select-fire or burst modes. Therefore, restricting the sale of firearms that do not meet these criteria is both legally and logically sound.

Demonizing and attempting to ban firearms under the guise of 'assault weapons' has no basis in legal or practical terms. Instead, it’s about understanding the definitions and regulations surrounding these firearms. Being informed about the true nature of the firearms available for purchase and their legal definitions is crucial in any discussion about gun laws and regulations.