Quote:
Originally Posted by SleazyDream
I ask this though, how are automatic weapons illegal in the USA if the constitution says you have the right to hold and bear arms?
it makes me think there is a way within existing legislation to do this............as it HAS been done for automatic weapons
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i'm not an expert by any stretch, but i do try and read original rulings as opposed to just rely on a reporter's view......i will put this in my own words, let's see if it makes sense.
the amendment codifies the freedom AND regulates the use. a "well-regulated" militia has the right to bear arms.......the sc has defined "arms" to be whatever weapons are commonly used in public at the time the sc is making the decision, that's the regulation. we can't own nuclear bombs or automatic weapons (exceptions apply),....
BUT they have left the door open to decide semi-auto, they just have to wait for a case re: that to come to their jurisdiction.