[adopt4Him]

so you apply this to children also? when you get technical, the big C doesn't give an age limit. So kids can own guns? there are NO rules at all?

[dirtboy]

So kids can own guns? there are NO rules at all?

My dad gave me a BB gun at age seven, and a .410 at age ten. I was using a double-barrel 12 gauge at age 12.

The decision when kids can have a gun should be up to parents, not fearful nanny-state ninnies.

[Publius Valerius]

Yes, I would say that "children" can own guns. Many children have grown up with firearms and these people are responsible, integrated members of society with a healthy respect for these weapons. Why should this not continue?

Again, if you disagree, let's have the debate and amend the constitution. Until then, let's not make an end-run around the Second Amendment.

[ctdonath2]

If someone is demonstrably incapable of responsible exercise of a right, the right can be suspended. This is a basic and accepted principle of law, applying to all rights.

My children, when old enough to responsibly understand and use firearms, will be given suitable rifles. My niece just got her first .22 - at age 10. Some posters in this thread got theirs at age 8.

Are there rules? Yes.

All guns are always loaded.
Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy.
Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
Know your target, and what is beyond.

These rules cover all safety issues. If you obey them, fine - do what you want. Scale them accordingly depending on what arms are being discussed (yes, even WMDs fit in once you get past the hysteria). Violate them, and others have the right to disarm & detain you until you deal with the consequences and they can trust you will follow those rules.

Once someone has the mental & moral capacity to exercise 2nd Amendment rights, they may do so - or, put more accurately, once someone has the mental & moral capacity to safely exercise 2nd Amendment rights (or ANY rights), nobody else has any right to stop them.