The key word in your statement is legitimate. But the fact is, those with the guns have the power. Legitimate or not.
I suppose that we should ask Vickie Weaver if the actions taken by the feds at Ruby Ridge were legitimate. Of course, after the fact, Congress agreed that they weren't, and paid damages to Randy Weaver. But then it's too late.
Mark
Absolutely correct about POWER vs. Legit. power...our guns are the insurance policy against illegitimate power....by individual criminals or governmental agencies....
That is why I put the word "legitimate" in there. The Second Amendment was written to make sure that the government had only the powers granted them by the people.