Thanks for examining an aspect of Western culture that receives less coverage than it deserves. Responsible gun ownership includes acceptance of safeguards that are essential to the maintenance of a peaceful society. The paranoia and fear driving this small, feverish band of gun zealots is one of the strongest arguments for strengthening regulations. Their willingness to barricade the doors and start exchanging fire with any manifestation of government force begs for increased measures to prevent them from attaining that capability.

I suppose it's obligatory to mention that I am a native Montanan and a lifelong gun owner in order to appease the xenophobes. I personally welcome strengthened legislation limiting access to military assault-style weaponry, and I know a great many Westerners, Americans, and human beings who agree.

Thad Adkins
Washington, D.C.