Make no mistake: the “war” over gun control is very much a culture war. Those who come in without an agenda and study it impartially as professionals – Adam Winkler in “Gun Fight,” for example, and Paul Barrett in that part of his book “Glock: the Rise of America’s Gun” –  get that.

So does Dan Baum, whose new book “Gun Guys: A Road Trip” is now out from Alfred A. Knopf, publishers. A self-described liberal Democrat, Baum researched the issue on both sides, a welcome but rare approach to this most polarized debate.

At a time when politicians and the media seek to restrict the rights, and tax and even confiscate the legally-owned property of responsible, law-abiding citizens following an atrocity committed by a single madman, Baum has a finger accurately placed on the pulse of the “gun culture.”

Baum writes that “…a friend who is a neo-natal nurse in California, told me that her state legislature had ordered locked away emergency drugs that had always been readily to hand. Worried that an addict might get ahold of them, the legislature imposed a complicated process nurses must go through to get access – a process my friend argued might cost a baby’s life. ‘We’re nurses!’ she cried. ‘We’re responsible professionals! We know how to take care of our medications!’ Again, substitute a word or two and she might have been any ordinary gun guy – who is certain that his guns will never be a public-safety problem – railing against laws that restrict and infantilize everybody because a tiny percentage of miscreants might do something ugly. Which isn’t much different, when you think about it, than racial profiling.”

Baum even gets the rationale of the so-called “high capacity magazine” for the law-abiding armed citizen. After being “killed” in a high-tech PRISM gunfight simulation when he quickly ran out of ammunition with his snub-nosed .38 revolver, Baum bought himself a sixteen-shot Glock 19 9mm pistol.

After a year or so of experimentally “carrying,” Baum chose to give up wearing a concealed handgun daily. “I don’t plan to let my carry permit lapse,” he writes. “And I plan to continue taking my carry guns to the range from time to time. Carrying a gun is a skill and a privilege I value, even if I don’t exercise it daily.”

Dan Baum “gets it.”  More people need to look at it as objectively and analytically as he did. Buy a copy of his book and pass it around.  It might help other people to “get it,” too.

1 COMMENT

  3. Well said. Folks who don’t come to the gun table with an open mind and want to learn; in other words ignorant people, are the cause for mundane gun laws in our country.

  4. Hey Mas, a bit off topic but I’m looking into getting a Jarvis barrel for my Glock 17 and nobody seems to be able to give me a price qoute. Any idea on an average MSRP?

  5. Try being a lone “gun nut” at an Ivy League university! Sadly I did bite someone’s head off because she began ranting about how no one should have “semi-automatic guns”, but had no idea that those are *not* machine guns. That particular city-bred person likely got her gun “knowledge” from Hollywood and from news reports of gang shootings.

    Glad my NYC-bred fiancee is smarter than that!

  6. McChrystal says ‘serious action’ needed on gun control
    Speaking on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” Tuesday, Retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the former commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, said some weapons should be carried only by soldiers, not civilians.

    “I spent a career carrying typically either an M16, and later an M4 carbine,” he said. “And an M4 carbine fires a .223 caliber round, which is 5.56 millimeters, at about 3,000 feet per second. When it hits a human body, the effects are devastating. It’s designed to do that. And that’s what our soldiers ought to carry.”

    The general added, “I personally don’t think there’s any need for that kind of weaponry on the streets and particularly around the schools in America. I believe that we’ve got to take a serious look. I understand everybody’s desire to have whatever they want, but we’ve got to protect our children, we’ve got to protect our police, we’ve got to protect our population. And I think we have to take a very mature look at that.”

    The general, who had to resign his position as commander of the U.S. Forces in Afghanistan after a Rolling Stone magazine profile in 2010 that included unflattering comments about the Obama administration, is back in the public eye to promote his book, “My Share of the Task.”

    The former military man told the show, “I think serious action is necessary. Sometimes we talk about very limited actions on the edges, and I just don’t think that’s enough.”

    Asked what his message would be to the NRA and the House Judiciary Committee, he said, “I think we have to look at legislation. The number of people in America killed by firearms is extraordinary compared to other nations. And I don’t think we’re a bloodthirsty culture, and so I think we need to look at everything we can do to safeguard our people.”
    ..

  7. I used to be for handgun control until recently.

    Not too long ago, we received death threats at my place of employment. Law enforcement was notified and eventually things were resolved. But we were told that because of our location outside the city, it would take quite a while for law enforcement to arrive if there was ever a shooter situation. This is the 2nd time we’ve had a threat made against us.

    I remember walking out of work that day thinking that while the police are great and do a great job, the only real assurance I have of my personal safety is if I was properly trained and certified to carry concealed.

    As a hunter, I’ve never had an issue with shotguns or rifles. But my perspective was that as a society we didn’t really need handguns. Once the theoretical debate became personal, I quickly realized that my belief was not only unfair to others but that my mindset could cause someone else to lose their life if threatened by supporting ideas that only strengthen the position of the criminal/perpetrator.

    I do not relish the idea of carrying a weapon on a daily basis but I do appreciate the right to be able to do so. And I will continue to make sure I am properly educated in the laws & duties as an legitimately armed civilian through reading and range time.

  8. Will “Extreme” Gun Control Proposals Require An Executive Order? It’s good to see that some/any Democrats can see the writing on the wall for new gun control legislation. Speaking on ABC’s This Week, Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) called the civilian disarmament proposals—rumored to be under contemplation by Senator Joe Biden’s [Gun] Death Panel—”way extreme.” As suggested on this site, a federal national database to track all assault weapons would run smack into the face of the Firearms Owners’ Protection Act (FOPA) which forbids a national database to track ANY firearm. The chances of repealing FOPA are smaller than the chances RF will date Natalie Dadon. Which leaves . . .
    an Executive Order directing the ATF to re-classify “assault weapons” as Title II firearms (e.g., machine guns and suppressors). Owners would have to register the guns under the NFA and pay a tax. Currently, that ticket’s $200. Raise it to say $500 and voila! A de facto assault weapons ban without all that messy business of Congressional approval. Remember: that’s the way Chicago went after the Heller decision knocked down their handgun ban. Led by former White House Chief of Staff and current Chicago Mayor Rahm Emmanuel.

  9. “I think we have to look at legislation. The number of people in America killed by firearms is extraordinary compared to other nations. And I don’t think we’re a bloodthirsty culture, and so I think we need to look at everything we can do to safeguard our people.”

    This from a retired General who spent a couple years running up a body count in Afghanistan? I think the number or people killed by firearms, and explosives in Afghanistan was/is kind of high but I guess it is okay as long as it is government sponsored? General (retired) McChrystal is part of the reason we have a second amendment and need the weapons.

  10. I think McChrystal just outed himself as the next Weasel Clark in echoing Heinrich Himmler… “Ordinary citizens shouldn’t have weapons, as it does not serve the interests of the State.”

  11. Apparently the NRA is sending Jim Baker to meet with VP Biden this month. My recollection is that Baker is was part of the nra good old boy network. At this point I figure we are screwed. Debating now to sell all my guns while I can get a good price for them. Depressing really.

  13. Mas, Thank you for using the work “atrocity”. The acts of a madman in aurora (I’ve actually been in that theater) to Sandy Hook are atrocities. Being hit by a meteor is a tragedy.

  14. According to Amazon web site, Dan Baum’s book “Gun Guys: A Road Trip” has a publication date of 5 March 2013.

    I’ve put in a book request to my local library that they order it when it comes out.

  15. From the ‘General’
    “I personally don’t think there’s any need for that kind of weaponry on the streets and particularly around the schools in America.”

    Question: Why do we permit the police to have those same weapons on the streets and around the schools in America?

    Answer: Because, for defense of oneself, they work!

    And current research provides the proof.

    Exactly the reason ‘Joe and Jane lunchbox” should have the same capability if they desire.

    Protection provided by the second amendment.

    Mike

  16. So according to the General varmint rounds should be banned? What is the maximum velocity allowed by the General? .308’s are slower so they are OK? 30-06 good, 25-06 bad? No wonder Afghanistan is a mess.

    The bigger issue is that there are really three kinds of people today: those that can see one side (and everyone is stupid or evil), those that can see both sides (the other side is mistaken), and those that just don’t care.

    If Mas or any of his associates had a debate, purely as a debate exercise–not to actually sway people–and drew straws to debate for gun control, they’d win. Because they understand both sides of the issue. Their opponents would fail even if their lives depended on it–they just can not see the other point of view.

    That is what is hurting America, guns are just one issue. I really don’t see how the country can continue on in one piece when there is no common culture, one side considers the other stupid-or-evil and both sides vie for control by spending $2 billion dollars an election pandering to the don’t cares.

    Work on making the don’t cares care, and offer reasoned arguments to those who don’t see both sides of the argument.

  19. Given that his kingship declares guns illigal and given the fact we will never give them up with out a serious fight how many prison beds does the good president have available for those of us still alove to be placed in? Maybe it will be a stockade ran by all the forces being brought home from the other war? How many police officers are willing to give up their lives to do his dirty work? I realize this sounds nuts, but so did Hitlers plans for Germany. I’ve lost a lot of relatives fighting to keep this country free over the last 70 years. Is the battle now from with in? Best case we have some in congress with a back bone that will stand up to this and stop it. Worst case I don’t know. I am an old man my days are numbered but I still have a duty to my kids and grand kids that they will be free to defend themselves from all threats including the government. As an old dear frind said ” may God grant me the vision to see the sights and the strength to pull the trigger to devend my country”

  20. VP Biden Threatens Executive Order on Civilian Disarmament

    “Vice President Joe Biden indicated Wednesday that the president will be able to take executive action to combat gun violence as he kicked off one of several meetings this week in response to the Newtown shooting,” politico.com reports. “‘We’re here today to deal with a problem that requires immediate action, urgent action,’ Biden said at the start of a meeting with leaders from gun control groups and several victims of gun violence. ‘The president is going to act. There are executive orders, executive action that can be taken. We haven’t decided what that is yet, but we’re compiling it all … as well as legislative action, we believe, is required.’” TTAGs legal eagle and political strategist Ralph reckons Joe’s just saber-rattling. In fact, the remark could be seen as a positive sign; an acknowledgement that the Obama Administration knows it doesn’t have the votes for civilian disarmament in Congress. That said . . . “Make no mistake,” Ralph warns. “The gun grabbers are all in.”

  21. I’m not sure that I would call it a “culture war”. What I do see, is that many people on both the “left” and the “right” seem to adopt certain viewpoints and mindsets without properly understanding facts. People on the left do it with guns, people on the right blame “illegals” for everything including the common cold.

    I’m not sure what the solution is, but until people start making up their own minds about issues after studying facts, instead of parroting their favorite pundit or media hero then nothing will change.

    Also people need to learn to separate their own person need to “do something” to feel better, vs. taking real action. Much as I respect the Giffords (and they admit to having their own guns at home), this need to start a movement just so the congresswoman can heal her pain by “doing something” to make sense out of a senseless tragedy at the expense of 50 million gun owners, is a perfect example. Brady did the same. How can we counter that? I have no clue.

  22. Another comment…

    I constantly read on threads about the “need or reason” to own an assault rifle. We need to clearly rebut this. Make it clear that in our freedom centered republic, we do not require “justification” or “need” in order to grant permission for citizens to own things.

  23. I’ve long been a reader of Massad Ayoob’s work, and I was delighted to discover BHM while looking for more of his writing. His recent blog posts provoked some thoughtful discussion at home, and this morning my wife and I decided to join the NRA. It seems like the best ‘basic step’ we can take, to help preserve our right to bear arms.

    On a related note, it was one of Mas’s articles in a magazine that prompted my wife and I both to get trained/licensed for concealed carry. It’s safe to say that at least in our case, he has had a profound (and positive) effect. Thanks, Mas.

  24. New York Governor Cuomo’s Seven Point Plan for Civilian Disarmament
    New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has released the text of his State of the State speech. [Click here for live streaming.] bloomberg.com reports that Cuomo ”wants to make New York’s gun laws the toughest in the nation, pushing to ban weapons with ‘military-style features’ and eliminate loopholes that allow the sale of large-capacity magazines . . . The proposal would allow the state to suspend or revoke licenses and confiscate weapons, close loopholes in the 2000 law banning assault rifles, flag large bullet purchases and require background checks for gun sales between private parties. ‘Some weapons are so dangerous and some ammunition devices so lethal that we simply cannot afford to continue selling them in our state,’ the report said. Current law ‘is so riddled with loopholes and so difficult to understand that it has become virtually unenforceable.’” The Gov has a seven-point plan . . .

    1. “Enact the toughest assault weapons ban in the nation period”

    2. “Close the private sale loophole by requiring federal background checks”

    3. “Ban high capacity magazines.”

    4. “Enact tougher penalties for illegal gun use, guns on schools grounds and violent gangs.”

    5. “Keep guns form people who are mentally ill.”

    6. “Ban internet sales of ammunition in New York.”

    7. “Create a state NICS check on all ammunition purchases.”

  25. New Jersey Introduces 18 Civilian Disarmament Bills

    We won’t know what’s in the Garden State gun grabbers’ bills until later today. But Rob Eichmann [via conservativenewjersey.com] reports that NJ Democrats have introduced 18—count ‘em 18—gun control bills yesterday. [Full list after the jump] As our tipster pointed out, even the names are scary: “A-3676 Requires psychological evaluation and in-home inspection as prerequisite to purchase firearm.” Clearly, no matter what happens or, preferably, doesn’t happen with gun control at the federal level, the lights (of liberty) are going out all over the Northeast. Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island legislatures are scrambling to implement post-Sandy Hook civilian disarmament legislation. Illinois residents are FAR from safe, and gun owners living within liberal enclaves within red states (e.g., Denver) are also at risk of losing some if not all of their Constitutionally protected right to keep and bear arms. The battle for firearms freedom is joined. Again. Still.

    A-3645/S-2476 Requires ammunition sales and transfers be conducted as face-to-face transactions.

    A-3646/S-2474 Establishes a regulatory system to govern the sale and transfer of ammunition.

    A-3653 Criminalizes purchasing or owning weapon if person has previous conviction of unlawful possession of weapon.

    A-3659 Revises definition of destructive device to include certain weapons of 50 caliber or greater.

    A-3664 Reduces lawful maximum capacity of certain ammunition magazines in New Jersey.

    A-3666/S-2465 Prohibits mail order, Internet, telephone, and any other anonymous method of ammunition sale or transfer in New Jersey.

    A-3667 Requires mental health screening by licensed professional to purchase a firearm.

    A-3668/S-2467 Prohibits investment by State of pension and annuity funds in companies manufacturing, importing, and selling assault firearms for civilian use.

    A-3676 Requires psychological evaluation and in-home inspection as prerequisite to purchase firearm.

    A-3687 Disqualifies person named on federal Terrorist Watchlist from obtaining firearms identification card or permit to purchase handgun.

    A-3688 Requires mental health evaluation and list of household members with mental illness to purchase firearm.

    A-3689 Requires security guards who carry weapons to wear certain uniform, including identification card.

    A-3690/S-2430 Declares violence a public health crisis, recommends expansion of mental health programs, recommends federal adoption of gun control measures, and establishes “Study Commission on Violence.”

    AJR-89 Urges President and US Senate to ratify Arms Trade Treaty proposed by United Nations.

    AR-133 Expresses support for creation of task force on gun control led by Vice President Biden.

    S-2464 Regulates sale and transfer of rifle and shotgun ammunition.

    S-2475 Reduces maximum capacity of ammunition magazines to 10 rounds.

    SR-92 Urges Congress to strengthen gun control

  26. COLORADO ALERT: 2013 Anti-Gun Bills at the State Capitol
    Updated information on anti-Second Amendment bills in the 2013 Colorado Legislature:
    We can expect 14 to 20 anti-gun bills. The current Democrat package includes:

    •A ban on an undetermined number of semi-automatic firearms (No grandfather clause)

    • A ban on magazines of over ten rounds (No grandfather clause).

    • Making an individual with a violent misdemeanor a “prohibited person” re: gun ownership.

    • A ban on private sales by requiring universal background checks.

    • A waiting period on background checks that will kill gun shows.

    • Rollback of concealed carry on college campuses.

    • More strict enforcement of gun confiscation related to restraining orders

    • Wider use of mental health treatment information for gun control purposes

  27. Randall, you have hit the bull’s eye. Too many people take positions because those positions are the ones that their friends take, or are the positions that they think they have to take to belong to a certain group.

    I am a confused democrat, but many of my republican friends and co-workers are clamoring for the government to “do something” about gun violence (and yes, I hate that phrase). They are not closely examining what they are asking for (assault weapons bans, high-cap magazine bans) because they know nothing about guns and thus, don’t really care. They just want “something” to be done. I try to educate them in person, or online, but it’s a waste of time. If you do not have a gun, and do not shoot guns, and do not feel confident or comfortable with guns, then you have no problem with dispensing with them.

  28. The Second Amendment guarantees the others. We should not disdain or give up so easily a right that our Founders fought and died for so many years ago.

    My family has the advantage of seeing what happens when a conquered people are governed by a ruthless foe. First, all firearms are confiscated. Severe punishment is mandated for those that do not surrender their firearms. Severe punishment is mandated for those that do not turn in firearms from planes that have crashed during aerial dogfights. Severe punishment is mandated for giving guerillas firearms to fight with. A Jewish friend, a survivor of the death camps, illustrated the importance of not giving up our right to keep and bear arms. For his people, for the Jews, he pointed out the Israeli flag is a symbol of an armed people ready to defend themselves. In contrast, the Star of David sewn on the sleeves of blouses and coats of his compatriots in Nazi Germany was a symbol of a people disarmed and powerless! I’ll never forget his lesson.

  29. I think that General McChrystal is expressing his opinions, which he has a perfect right to do, and I think that they are pretty inoffensive. Keep schools safe, respect everyone’s rights and be able to easily tell the difference between an American city and a war zone. (Well that’s how I interpret his comments.)

    As to his bit about M16s and M4s, well there is a POV that a weapon intended for engaging enemy soldiers in firefights on the battlefield is not *necessarily* the right tool to defend your home with, protect children with or indeed, even to police the streets with.

    Though of course there is the POV, which I do agree with, that the ability to deliver accurate aimed shots at ranges greater than reach-out-and-touch-someone distance has its place in all those scenarios.

  30. Having watched New York’s Cuomo’s speech exert on TV It appears that he is as deranged as the nuts that shoot up schools and movie theaters.. Sort of reminds me of a Hitler speech. They elected him now they have to live with his lunacy. Problem is that he has lots of company across the country. Ever notice they scream and rave and the gun people try to talk rationaly. Its sort of a liberal thing I think?

  31. All that any further antigun legislation in New York or New Jersey will show is that America no longer is one nation – on anything – but instead two very different nations, whose people have zilch in common but hating each other’s values. Just as the regional split on gay marriage already shows.

  32. The same old story….when guns are out lawed only outlaws will have guns and that is the way things are in Chicago. I have a CCP and when i go out the door i feel lost without my weapon. Why do i have a gun in my home??? At 1 AM someone is beating down my front door, my 20 pound terreir is barking, i quite her down and call 911 and i tell them what is happening and if the crimial breaks in before they arrive….they are dead…so it took them 12 minutes to get here…a mere 2 miles from station to my residence…and you say i don’t need a gun. Luckly for all the crimial fled, no damage and no one killed.