As we all know the single sharp and defining feature that clearly identifies a TRUE "assault rifle" is that little three position selector switch resting on the left side of most standard American battle rifles we call the selector switch. The position lying to the extreme left of the range of movement is marked "safe," where the firearm cannot discharge. The vertical position is marked "semi" and here it aligns with the civilian AR platform. Here, every single pull of the trigger results in a single projectile exiting the muzzle, just like every single civilian firearm made. The position to the extreme right is marked "full," and this is the feature that indeed makes it a true "assault rifle." The ability to discharge the contents of the magazine with a single pull of the trigger without pause. A machine-gun.
That brings up the follow up point. Machine-guns are not banned for use in this country. All that is required is the payment of a tax and an extensive background check by the ATF and depending on whether you have a trust document you may need the signature of a senior law enforcement official. In any case in all the time since these firearms were controlled in this manner, GCA 1936?? Can't recall specific year.
Anyway in all that time only ONE holder of a lawfully owned and documented full automatic was ever convicted of using that weapon in criminal fashion and he was a law enforcement officer who had access to full auto weaponry anyway. Pretty good way of showing that the issues here aren't the firepower.
These are the points that should be made anytime the liberal left tries to assert their emotionally charged hysteria into the public discourse. Truth and specificity have to be our watchwords.