[marktwain]

There weren't any semi-automatic weapons available

Simply false. Semi-automatic guns were available for very reasonable prices as surplus after WWII.

There was almost no federal regulations. Semi-automatic rifles could be ordered through the mail, as could anti-tank and anti-aircraft cannons.

Semi-automatic pistols had to be shipped as rail freight.

[marktwain]

[jmacusa]

I believe that up until the late 1930’s you could by a Thompson submachine gun from Sears mail order.