I agree with the idea of requiring training, but I also agree with those who say that requiring training for a CCW license is wrong, since being armed is a right, and not a privilege.
The mandatory training should take place in our schools, starting with mandatory firearms safety training; (1) the Eddie Eagle program for elementary schoolers, (2) mandatory basic safe firearms handling for jr high/middle school, and (3) optional firearms proficiency training (with at least rifles and/or shotguns, but ideally also for handguns)
(1) should be mandatory because far too many children come into contact with guns which have been carelessly left unattended, or were stored where parents THOUGHT their kids couldn't find them. Small children do not have the judgement to be trusted to handle guns safely withough an adult present. Gun restrictions won't work, neither will attempts to 'childproof' a gun. 'Gunproofing' the child is more effective.
(2) should be mandatory, because at this age, kids are starting to develope judgement skills, and some kids may be trusted to safely handle guns. Kids of this age are also often trusted to watch younger children, and may have to take charge when a younger child finds an unattended firearm.
(3) Actually, I feel this should also be mandatory, since I believe that every one should take part in safeguarding our country. At the same time, though, the neat thing about this country is that the rights of the individual are considered sacred, and many people believe that they should have the right to be UNarmed, if they so choose. I would have to agree with this, as long as those who choose not to be armed understand that it does not automatically make someone else responsible for their safety.
After high school, firearms safety and/or proficiency training should be available to anyone who wants it, from the government.
I don't agree with licensing; one does not need a license to exercise their rights, and being armed is a right, not a privilege.
It'll never happen, but that's the way it oughta be.
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Roger Shambaugh
Ottawa, Kansas
"No man who's in the
wrong can stand against
a man who knows he's
right and keeps on
a-comin'."
Capt. Bill McDonald
Texas Rangers