Since the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary last month, talk of gun control has provoked emotional responses from both Republicans and Democrats.
The Hilltop Gun Club hosted a public forum Wednesday night at the Athens Public Library to combat myths created by each political party in the aftermath of the school shooting.
The club wanted to provide factual information about firearms so those in the public can make informed decisions in the wake of the shooting, said chief instructor Kevin Martin.
“The more information we have, the better off we are to find solutions,” Martin said.
All Americans need to especially be aware of the history of the second amendment, Martin said.
“Sometimes we think the Bill of Rights is static and unchanging,” he said. “Having said that, the courts’ interpretation of it changes and that is something we need to be aware of.”
Education is just one of the necessities of gun ownership, said member Jim Salzman, who added that nationwide safety boils down to one thing –– responsibility.
“We are balancing off freedoms with responsibilities,” Salzman said. “We think there is a place for responsible gun ownership.”
Much of the responsibility lies in the hands of the government, Martin said, adding that Ohio has effective gun laws in place that are among the most stringent in the nation.
In order to get a concealed carry license in the state of Ohio, a person must undergo 12 hours of training and class, obtain a background check through the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the FBI, and qualify at an authorized shooting range, Salzman said.
Though many in the club belong to the National Rifle Association, the members were quick to distance themselves from the national lobbying group.
Martin said that the NRA overhauled its message in 1987 and distanced itself from its original intention to promote gun education.
“There was a coup in 1987,” Martin said. “Ever since, their message turned into solely ‘protect the second amendment.’”
Though many people say the second amendment justifies arming teachers to protect school safety, club member Noah Needler disagrees.
“I don’t think it’s a very good idea,” Needler said. “Having guns accessible to kids or anyone who comes in is a recipe for disaster.”
sh335311@ohiou.edu
