Never saw that letter; thanks for the source.
I wonder if one can extrapolate the meaning of an amendment from the excerpt of one letter—the same kind of exercise was done by SCOTUS regarding “wall of separation between church and state” using, ironically, one single phrase from a letter by Jefferson.
Seems to me the founders didn’t think that “bear” arms meant carrying them everywhere or brandishing them without purpose.
Of course, if the “open carry” law is in the jurisdiction, then there should be no problem.
A strong body makes the mind strong. As to the species of exercises, I advise the gun. While this gives moderate exercise to the body, it gives boldness, enterprise and independence to the mind. Games played with the ball, and others of that nature, are too violent for the body and stamp no character on the mind. Let your gun therefore be your constant companion of your walks.
-— Thomas Jefferson to Peter Carr, 1785. The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, (Memorial Edition) Lipscomb and Bergh, editors.