[backhoe]

According to the Second Amendment -- the Federal Government should be encouraging and sponsoring general public ownership and expert use of assault weapons. That is the clearest and most honest interpretation of that first clause.

I agree. At one time qualified Israeli citizens could check UZIs out of local armories ( so I've been told; I understand that may no longer be the case ) and I'd welcome a similar system here.

[bvw]

The Swiss, too. Clearly the "assualt rifle" IS the modern militia weapon of choice. If anything, it should enjoy special privilege accorded to its widespread ownership.